Avoiding globalisation of the prescription opioid epidemic

Abstract

Countries should immediately assess and strengthen all available safeguards against the globalisation of the prescription opioid addiction and overdose epidemic. Central to such efforts should be creating clear blue water between opioid manufacturers and the formulation of prescription practice guidelines, the development of relevant legislation and regulation, the training of medical professionals, the creation of putatively public health-oriented activist groups, and the certification of health-care facilities.