The History of the Opioid Crisis

Since Opioids hit the prescription drug market in the 1980s, drugs such as fentanyl, OxyContin, and Vicodin have been dispersed throughout Vancouver,  and its irreversible impacts have left a mark on the city’s history and reputation. The heavily addictive nature of the substance has unsurprisingly led to a widespread use and epidemic that have drastically affected the residents of the city. 

Many deem the introduction of OxyContin as the beginning of it all. The drug,  produced by Purdue Pharma, found its way into the market by way of advertising to doctors and Pharmacies. The company was persuasive and used aggressive marketing tactics in order to increase sales.  

According to research done by the National Library of Medicine, the number of prescription opioids sold to hospitals and pharmacies has increased by 3000%  since the 1980s. 

The crisis is mostly present in the areas of Hastings and Main street, encompassing what we know as the Downtown East Side. Every native Vancouverite is aware of the situation there, and the large population of homeless people who reside in the streets. 

The Opioid epidemic is a very prominent topic of discussion and a subject of focus. Many want to know what’s being done about it, but more importantly what isn’t? 

It is quite apparent to most that the issue has gone disregarded, no effective action has been taken to improve the situation. In March 2020 the provincial government of British Columbia implemented a program known as Safer supply. The aim was to provide safe, unlaced, prescription opioid drugs to those that are suffering from addiction, but the plan has shown minimal improvements. The program has faced harsh criticism as many question whether providing opioid users with a free and accessible outlet for drugs is an effective way to rebound overdoses. Many suggest it will only encourage drug users and make it easier for them to acquire the substance.  

The urgency of the situation is high; nearly seven people die from opioid overdoses daily, as toxic drugs are the main cause of death in the province for people aged between 10 and 59. A demographic provided by the BC Coroner’s Services. 

It is no doubt that everyone in Vancouver is impacted by this issue in some way,  whether or not it be out of sympathy, concern, or anger.