Opiate use on the rise in Twin Cities

Abuse of heroin and other opiates has reached a record high in the Twin Cities, reported WCCO News.
The semi-annual report released by the Minnesota Department of Health on Monday said that admission to treatment centers for heroin has tripled since 2000, reaching 10 percent in the first half of 2011. About one in five patients last year were admitted for abuse of heroin or other opiates, reported the Pioneer Press.
Among these other opiates are "fake pot," manufactured marijuana that is sold as incense, and other synthetic drugs sold as "research chemicals" and "bath salts," according to the Star Tribune.
"With the emergence and growth of these dangerous and addictive drugs, it is imperative that communities educate themselves, embrace prevention efforts, and become part of the solution," said Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson, reported WCCO News.
Steps have been taken to limit access to these synthetic drugs, but they are still found on the Internet and in some stores.