Ep 6. Chasing Heroin

The Frontline season 34 episode 6, named "Chasing Heroin," is a harrowing and sobering documentary that delves deep into the opioid epidemic that is currently ravaging America. The episode investigates the roots of the crisis, the response of law enforcement agencies and the healthcare industry, and the stories of individuals who have been affected by addiction.

The episode opens with a stark portrayal of the crisis, with footage of overdoses and descriptions of individuals who have lost everything due to their addiction. The documentary then takes a step back to examine the history of the opioid epidemic, tracing its origins back to the 1990s when Purdue Pharma introduced OxyContin, a powerful painkiller, to the market. The drug was aggressively marketed as safe and non-addictive, leading to widespread prescription and overuse.

As the epidemic worsened, law enforcement agencies began to crack down on prescription drug abuse, leading to a surge in heroin use as addicts turned to the cheaper and more readily available drug. The documentary examines the response of law enforcement agencies, including the use of Narcan, a drug that can reverse the effects of an overdose, and the controversial practice of offering immunity to users who agree to seek treatment.

The episode also explores the response of the healthcare industry, including the over-prescription of opioid painkillers and the challenges faced by doctors and addiction specialists as they try to address the crisis. The documentary features interviews with healthcare professionals who are working to find new approaches to addiction treatment, including the use of medication-assisted treatment and harm reduction strategies.

Perhaps the most powerful aspect of the documentary is the stories of the individuals who are affected by addiction. The episode features interviews with addicts, their families, and their loved ones, providing a human face to the crisis. We hear from people who have lost everything to their addiction, including their homes, their families, and their lives. We also hear from those who are in recovery, and the enormous challenges that they face on a daily basis.

Throughout the episode, the documentary portrays the opioid epidemic as a complex and multifaceted problem, with no simple solutions. While the response of law enforcement agencies and the healthcare industry is important, it ultimately comes down to individuals who are struggling with addiction and the support that they receive from their communities. The documentary serves as a wake-up call to the public and policymakers alike, urging them to take action to address this growing crisis.

In conclusion, Frontline season 34 episode 6, "Chasing Heroin," is a powerful and heart-wrenching documentary that shines a light on the opioid epidemic in America. Through a combination of interviews and footage, the episode examines the history and causes of the crisis, as well as the response of law enforcement agencies and the healthcare industry. The documentary serves as a reminder that behind the statistics and the headlines are real people whose lives have been forever changed by addiction. It is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the scope and impact of this epidemic on American society.