Opinion

Continue fight against synthetic drugs

Posted July 30, 2012 5:00 am

The Illinois Poison Center would like to thank the Illinois’ congressional delegation for being champions in the fight against synthetic drugs. The Food and Drug Administration Safety and Innovation Act, signed by President Obama, prohibits some of substances found in synthetic drugs; it is a true victory not only the people of Illinois, but the entire nation.

Over the past 18 months the IPC has been in partnership with the Illinois attorney general, law enforcement and other concerned stakeholders to decrease access to these dangerous drugs, as well as educate the public about the dangers these substances present to our communities. This legislation will greatly assist in reducing future injuries and deaths associated with the use of synthetic drugs.

Even though this bill provides an excellent foundation for the country’s response to synthetic drugs, public education must continue. The IPC will remain a resource for the general public and health care professionals to provide treatment advice and education on synthetic drugs via its toll-free poison hotline at (800) 222-1222 and website at www.illinoispoisoncenter.org.

Dr. Michael Wahl

Medical director

Illinois Poison Center

Chicago

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