Michael was receiving pain treatment, related to performance injuries, by using Demerol, a narcotic drug similar to morphine that carries a high potential for abuse. According to Brian Oxman, a Jackson family lawyer and spokesman, Michael Jackson had been struggling with pain. Oxman told CNN, “I can only tell you that this is not something which has been unexpected.”

He went on to say, “This family has been trying for months and months to take care of Michael Jackson. The people who have surrounded him have been enabling him: if you think that the case of Anna Nicole Smith was an abuse, it is nothing to what we have seen taking place in Michael Jackson’s life.” Oxman says he warned about the risks of Michael Jacksons use of medications. Demerol is a narcotic that requires close monitoring for side effects, and in particular respiratory depression.

Demerol, especially if mixed with other pain killers or sedatives causes central nervous system depression, and can increase the chances of cardiac and respiratory arrest. Reportedly Michael collapsed after receiving the narcotic injection.

Autopsy results, including toxicology screens will tell us if Michael Jackson is another victim of drug abuse from Demerol or other narcotics or sedatives. Until autopsy and toxicology reports are completed, speculation undoubtedly will ensue as to whether Demerol caused Michael Jacksons cardiac arrest and death.

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