Background / Mission

BACKGROUND:
The Zero Unintentional Deaths campaign was founded in April of 2006 with one goal: to eliminate the harm and unintended deaths associated with prescription pain relievers. No other goal is acceptable. Dr. Webster is one of the country's leading experts in the field of pain medicine, specifically regarding the use and misuse of methadone. His expertise has contributed to national news stories addressing the dangers of methadone and other prescription painkillers. Read More...

The Zero Unintentional Deaths campaign aims to eliminate unintentional overdose deaths without compromising access to treatment of pain. At the same time, the goal is to keep opioids (narcotics) available for those who need them. Opioids are good medications that are very effective against pain. They improve function and renew quality of life for many people. It is likely every American will need the life-enhancing pain relief provided by opioids at some point. Healthcare providers must continue to treat pain without risking harm to patients. You can do your part by following your doctor's directions and observing a few safety steps. Learn More...

MISSION:
To educate physicians, chronic pain sufferers, and all communities about the increasingly serious issue of unintentional overdose deaths from prescription medications; to create an emphasis on educating physicians of appropriate methods in prescribing opioid (narcotic) medications; to conduct the necessary research to find solutions to the problem without compromising access to pain therapy by limiting the availability of these powerful and necessary medications; and to ultimately reach the goal of Zero Unintentional Deaths.