Confronting Opioid Crisis Focus of Maine Conference

AUGUSTA, Maine - Veterinarians, law enforcement officers and doctors are sharing strategies to combat the opioid epidemic at a sold-out conference in Maine.
 
The state Department of Health and Human Resources sponsored the Monday event in Augusta and says Maine is recognized nationally for steps it's taking to save lives.
 
More than one person a day died from a drug overdose last year, and Maine lawmakers have passed strict opioid prescribing rules in hopes of stopping the flood of highly addictive painkillers.
 
The conference featured breakout sessions on drug trafficking, alternative treatments for pain management and evidence-backed ways to taper the use of opioids for those already prescribed such painkillers.
 
Doctors also discussed outpatient weaning clinics that allow babies who are born exposed to substances to wean off medications while at home with parents.