The number of OxyContin overdose deaths in the State of Florida continues to rise. Despite heightened awareness of the pain killer's potency, thousands have become addicted to, and died from, OxyContin. The number of people who died from hydrocodone and oxycodone (the generic name for OxyContin) in Florida increased by 59% during the first six months of 2001. Statistics indicate that 243 Floridians died from OxyContin overdoses between January and June 2001. Authorities say that 152 Floridians ingested fatal doses of OxyContin between July and December 2000.

The Florida Board of Medicine is considering several novel proposals aimed at regulating the distribution and use of OxyContin and other addictive prescription drugs. Some board members advocate the criminalization of so called "pill mills," doctor offices that indiscriminately prescribe medications without adequate patient examinations or follow-up. Additionally, the board may create a statewide database that would monitor the prescribing habits of Florida doctors in order to determine which medical professionals fit a pattern of negligent drug distribution.