Chicago: Several Kentucky regions has filed suit against the manufacturers of the strong painkilling drug ‘OxyContin, accusing that ‘hillibilly heroin’ maltreaters have filled state prison houses and treatment centers.

In a telephone interview, Greg Stumbo, Kentucky Attorney General said, “Following the introduction of this drug into Kentucky's market (in 1995), addictions increased dramatically, crime increased dramatically, and all the social costs associated with addiction increased dramatically.”

Purdue Pharma L.P., the privately-held OxyContin producer has stated that it would clash the claim lodged in Pike County, in eastern Kentucky. It said OxyContin’s labels have correct warnings.

In a declaration, the company said, “Courts have repeatedly dismissed individuals’ claims that Purdue Pharma was responsible for those individuals' own abuse and injuries resulting from it. We will defend this lawsuit vigorously and we expect to prevail.”

Stumbo said that at least three Kentucky regions have joined the class-action suit, which charges deceit, conspiracy, carelessness and public annoyance. Functionaries in 20 other parts have inquired about linking up with the class-action that looks for millions of dollars in compensative and punitive damages.

The drug, generically called ‘oxycodone’ is a potent prescription narcotic, which Kentucky functionaries said is a peculiar problem there and in close by Appalachian nations. Pike County in eastern Kentucky is a focal point for OxyContin ill-treatment, with 40 overdose deaths ascribed to the drug amid hundreds of deaths across the nation.

Purdue Pharma settled a lawsuit over inappropriate drug marketing earlier this year.

The Stamford, Connecticut-based company said it accepted duty for past misstatements made by a few employees.