Posted by KimberlyDi on February 10, 2004, at 12:50:53
In reply to Brother Dr. Shopping, posted by Rainee on February 9, 2004, at 19:10:21
Calling his doctor's will probably alienate your brother from you. Doctor's seem to be pretty sharp about recognizing an addict. Sooner or later he will run out of local doctor's to fool, or the pharmacists will suspect something with multiple scripts and doctors. Even hospitals get suspicious when someone repeatedly breaks fingers or toes to get a painkiller script.
The doctor's legal obligation is to his patient, including confidentiality.
If other family members have noticed this, maybe you can try a family intervention... just like the one that might have happened with the alcohol abuse. Is he going to AA? His sponsor might be able to help. It's tough to be in the position that you are in.
> My Brother stoppped drinking about 9 months ago but switched addictions too pain killers and xanax.
> He has the whole elaborate thing going about his shoulder being torn up. It is true he has shoulder problems but that's his reason for the drugs.
> Can I legally call a Doc and warn them that he is addicted? I'm afraid he is goign too OD.
> Thanks
>
> R
poster:KimberlyDi
thread:311416
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/subs/20040130/msgs/311710.html