I don't think we have enough evidence to conclude the legality of the opioids is the reason for the number of overdoses. I think it is better explained by: 1)

I don't think we have enough evidence to conclude the legality of the opioids is the reason for the number of overdoses. I think it is better explained by: 1) the nature of these drugs, they are definitely more addictive and possibly more dangerous than nearly every common street drug. Many street drugs are either not addictive at all, or have very low addiction rates. These opioids are likely more addictive than heroin. 2) that these drugs are first prescribed by doctors, which clouds people's judgment about how dangerous they are, making it more likely people may become addicted 3) then in the coup de grace, they are illegal to purchase recreationally, which forces addicts to the black market where it is much more difficult to get consistent dosages, which greatly increases the rate of overdose. The article lacks intellectual rigor.