MEMPHIS, Tenn. — On National Opioid Awareness Day, Sept. 21, one Mid-South doctor is making sure patients are aware of all their options when it comes to pain medications.

WREG's Quametra Wilborn spoke with Dr. Alan Kraus, who specializes in interventional pain management at Semmes Murphy Clinic about why he says it's so important that every patient is properly prescribed any medication.

"At some point, you have to draw the line," Kraus said.

The opioid epidemic continues to plague individuals and families across the U.S. and in the Mid-South.

According to provisional data from the Shelby County Health Department, as of Sept. 13 there have been 167 suspected opioid overdose-related deaths in 2025.

There were 604 suspected opioid emergency room visits and 1,013 reported suspected opioi

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