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Opioid Crisis: 16 Million Affected, Calls for Change

8/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The NIH estimates 16 million people worldwide have opioid use disorder, with 2.1 million in the U.S.
Concerns have been raised regarding opioid prescriptions by Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay.
In 2025, Meridian Health treated over 3,300 addiction patients in Indiana, focusing on therapy and support.
Ketamine, while FDA-approved for anesthesia, is not utilized by Meridian for addiction treatment.

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Story summary

The NIH estimates 16 million people worldwide have opioid use disorder, with 2.1 million in the U.S.
Concerns have been raised regarding opioid prescriptions by Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay.
In 2025, Meridian Health treated over 3,300 addiction patients in Indiana, focusing on therapy and support.
Ketamine, while FDA-approved for anesthesia, is not utilized by Meridian for addiction treatment.