WA State Board of Pharmacy Adopts Emergency Rule on new designer drugs:
In April 2011 the Board of Pharmacy adoped emergency rules to ban chemicals used in "Bath Salts," and the new drugs known as "K2/ Spice". This ruling classifies K2 and Spice as Schedule I controlled substances- which are considered to have a high potential for abuse adn no accpeted medical uses.
OxyContin formula changes in the hopes of reducing abuse
Purdue Pharma, the manufacture of OxyContin changed the chemical composition of their oxycodone pills in the hopes of reducing abuse. Abuse of OxyContin was at a high in Snohomish County in 2010. After the change by Purdue Pharma, less OxyContin is being seized by law enforcement. Other prescription pills are continuing to be prevalent.
Snohomish County is seeing a huge increase in the use of heroin and methadone. These drugs are being used by people of all ages and a large increase has been seen recently in use by teenagers. Oregon has seen an increase in "gunpowder heroin" a form of heroin laced with fentanyl. This form is much more potent than the black tar heroin most commonly seen in the Pacific Northwest and has led to a large number of overdoses.
A second Prescription Drug Take Back Day was held on April 30, 2011 and again Yielded High Results
A Successful turn out by the citizens of Snohomish County on the second Prescription Drug Take Back Day hosted in the county. Just a reminder, if you missed this date, unused and unwanted prescription drugs can still be turned in a local Snohomish County Police/ Sheriff's Office.
Dispose of your unused and unwanted medicines in the proper manner. This will protect our homes, waterways, and children. This program began December 1, 2009 and had been a huge success. You can participate at your local Snohomish County Law Enforcement Office.
