RT Journal
A1 Foley K
T1 Pain control and drug policy: A time for change
JF JAMA
JO JAMA
YR 2010
FD October 20
VO 304
IS 15
SP 1727
OP 1728
DO 10.1001/jama.2010.1526
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jama.2010.1526
AB 
Guy Faguet, a retired hematologist-oncologist, begins his text on drug policy with an overview of the history and politics of the regulation of mind-altering drugs (eg, alcohol, opioids), setting the framework for a discussion of US drug policy on pain control, drug abuse, and addiction. He is strident in his criticism of current US and global drug policy and presents a strong case that the United States has failed to develop effective programs to address proper medical use of opioids as well as control of their illegal use. He points to the War on Drugs as a major cause for the undertreatment of chronic pain, and he cites the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) for interfering with medical practice.