Many opioid users become addicted to the substance because doctors overprescribe them. “In the United States, there were 14,800 annual deaths related to prescribed opioids (POs) in 2008,” with the United States having fewer restrictions (Fischer, Benedikt et al 178). The United States has implemented more regulations so that “the high levels of OP-related harm associated with high-potency oxycodone formulations” will decrease (Fischer, Benedikt et al 178). With regulation, it doesn't change the fact that opioids are destructive. Regulation helps by reducing the likelihood that patients will become addicted to opioids. Many generations are affected and harmed by the harmful effects of opioids on people addicted to opioids.