RT Journal
A1 Hayes MJ, Brown MS
T1 EPidemic of prescription opiate abuse and neonatal abstinence
JF JAMA
JO JAMA
YR 2012
FD May 9
VO 307
IS 18
SP 1974
OP 1975
DO 10.1001/jama.2012.4526
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jama.2012.4526
AB 
In this issue of JAMA, Patrick et al1 describe the effects on newborn infants of the widespread availability of prescription opiate medications. These medications provide superior pain control for cancer and chronic pain, but have been overprescribed, diverted, and sold illegally, creating a new opiate addiction pathway and a public health burden for maternal and child health.2 Overdose mortality and dependence rates are highest among disadvantaged, young adults in rural areas (eg, Maine and Kentucky).3