On Tuesday, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced that prescription drug overdose deaths declined by 9% in 2011, according to the AJC. This reverses an upward trend that had prevailed since 2008.
There were 512 prescription drug overdose deaths in 2011 compared to 560 in 2010. Total overdose deaths –those caused by prescription drugs, illicit drugs, or a combination of the two, also declined 9% from 792 to 644.
An overwhelming portion (91%) of the deaths was accidental, with middle-aged white people making up the majority of the deceased. Suicides made up 8% while the other 1% was undetermined.
Xanax, a commonly prescribed anti-anxiety drug, was the most deadly, claiming 231 lives in 2011, followed by oxycodone (188), methadone (158) and hydrocodone (133).
The statistics were based on autopsies performed by the GBI medical examiner’s office for 152 counties, which did not include autopsies performed in Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnett, DeKalb, Henry, Hall or Rockdale. The previously named counties have their own medical examiner’s offices.
Medical Negligence Cases at Pope & Howard, P.C.
If someone you love died as a result of an accidental prescription overdose, you may have a case for medical negligence. To schedule a consultation with an expert attorney at Pope & Howard, P.C., please call (404) 944-4486 or contact us via email.