States work to control OxyContin abuse

OxyContin, a prescription drug used by those enduring chronic pain, is becoming an increasingly popular choice for drug abusers seeking a quick high. They often obtain the drug illegally with a false prescription or steal it from a pharmacy, then grind it up and inject or inhale it.

Now pharmacists are seeking ways to prevent theft of the drug and are minimizing the amount they keep on hand. In Massachusetts, thieves seeking the drug have robbed 37 pharmacies in the last six months.

VIDEO CNN's Bill Delaney says illegal traffic in the drug Oxycontin causes problems for legitimate users (July 19) Play video (QuickTime, Real or Windows Media)

Purdu Pharma, which manufactures the drug, has a 10-point program for pharmacists on how to avoid over-prescription and other abuses. The company also is trying to create a special type of prescription paper with security safeguards and an OxyContin pill that will only work as a timed-release capsule.

OxyContin appeals to users because it is a synthetic opium derivative. It's been called "hillbilly heroin" because its abuse has appeared in areas such as rural Maine and Kentucky. Doctors there allegedly have been too liberal in dispensing prescriptions for the drug.

CNN's Boston Bureau Chief Bill Delaney talks about the measures being taken to prevent abuse of the drug.