Ontario announced its "first comprehensive opioid strategy" yesterday, which includes measures aimed at modernizing prescribing and dispensing of both opioids and the drugs used to treat addiction and overdose. As opioid overdose deaths mount in Hamilton and across Ontario, it's a positive step, said Dr. The measures include expanding access to Suboxone, which helps treat opioid addiction by stopping cravings and preventing withdrawal symptoms. The drug is considered safer than methadone, with fewer side effects and "significantly less" risk of fatal overdose, according to information from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. The province is also pledging $17 million to enhance or create 17 chronic pain clinics across the province.

Source: CBC News October 13, 2016 20:48 UTC