OxyContin has proven to be one of the leading causes of the opioid addiction in the U.S. Due to a laundry list of alleged actions that Purdue Pharma took during the roll-out and promotion of OxyContin, South Carolina is attempting to sue the massive pharmaceutical corporation. The state is suing the company for deceptive marketing purposes that have directly contributed to the rise of the heroin and opioid epidemic.

According to the Greenville Online, South Carolina Attorney General said, “We don’t blame Purdue for the whole opioid epidemic, but we have identified them for their role in feeding this epidemic.”

The state is suing the company because Purdue Pharma allegedly violated South Carolina’s Unfair Trade Practices Act. Purdue Pharma is alleged to have told doctors that their opioid drugs weren’t nearly as addictive and that patients could be screened for addiction. Both of which have seemed to be false, at least according to the state.

It’s about time the government is taking responsibility for the opioid addiction. Even though it’s just one state, it could mean the start of a giant wave of reactions across the country. Purdue Pharma has played a large role in the opioid epidemic that is reaching across the country. Although Purdue Pharma isn’t the only culprit in the opioid epidemic across the country, their role in spreading opioids in such a reckless fashion is undeniable.

The opioid epidemic just continues to get worse. Now people are off prescription painkillers like OxyContin – and instead opting for street drugs like heroin and fentanyl. Both of which are deadly drugs that have killed so many already. The scope of the heroin addiction is devastating, which is why there is cleanup currently taking place. For example, President Donald Trump has declared a state of emergency against the opioid addiction. But it could be too late. Only time will tell if the government can save the country from an opioid epidemic.