4 chapters across the catalog
The Hulu series Dope Sick, starring Michael Keaton, depicts the history of the Sackler family and the marketing of OxyContin. The narrative highlights how the term "breakthrough pain" was allegedly invented by pharmaceutical companies to justify doubling dosages when time-release medications failed. This historical marketing tactic is compared to the modern use of the term "breakthrough cases" in the pharmaceutical industry.
Valium Prescription, Pharmaceutical Influence on Mass Violence
Reports surfaced that Stephen Paddock was prescribed Valium (diazepam) in the months leading up to the shooting. The hosts discuss the potential side effects of anti-anxiety medications and suggest that the media avoids focusing on the link between psychiatric drugs and mass shootings to protect advertisers.
Internet addiction is now categorized as a behavioral addiction in medical literature, involving excessive gaming, email, or texting. Controversial reports suggest that treatments ranging from Valium to electroshock therapy are being considered for those suffering from the condition.
Pharmaceutical Shills, Medical Industry Lexicon
The conversation shifts to the influence of pharmaceutical shills in online medical forums and the changing language of healthcare. The term "provider" is analyzed as a way to replace doctors with less expensive nurse practitioners. An anecdote describes a doctor prescribing Valium and Vicodin as a routine part of a diagnostic procedure, illustrating the normalization of heavy medication.
