An Odyssey of Ignorance & Greed

Episode 1 of Do No Harm: The Opioid Epidemic

The Opioid Epidemic is the worst man-made epidemic in the history of our nation. More people die each year from an opioid overdose than in automobile accidents. The statistics are staggering. This episode traces how an aggressive pharmaceutical mass marketing campaign for the new drug OxyContin mislead doctors and the public into our current crisis of death and addiction. The FDA and healthcare organizations became co-conspirators in endorsing long term use of opioids despite no scientific proof they were non-addictive.

This episode shows the direct link between prescription opioids and heroin addiction. It spotlights experts, journalists, and public health crusaders combating the special interests and informing the world. Meanwhile, scientists search to find better, safer drugs to combat pain. As the US becomes more aware of prescription opioid dangers, Big Pharma now takes their dangerous marketing campaign to third world countries. And the battle continues.