OxyContin, known as 'hillbilly heroin,' is abused on the Hi-Line

So, what is OxyContin?

According to the Food and Drug Administration, OxyContin is a long-lasting version of oxycodone, a narcotic considered important therapy for many patients suffering long-term moderate to severe pain from cancer or other illnesses. When swallowed whole, the tablet provides 12 hours of pain relief.

Unfortunately, oxycodone products are also illicitly abused, by adults and youth alike. If chewed, snorted or injected, OxyContin produces a quick, and potentially lethal, high. It has been linked to hundreds of deaths.

Abuse of OxyContin reportedly originated in rural areas, ca...