It's a sad/vicious cycle. I've seen the pill shit in person and shook my head and walked away. People ask why this happens and how could someone think this is ok? Well, the problem lies in that they people doing the drugs don't think about it rationally. Most people are too stubborn and think that "It won't happen to me". "Just because thousands of others get addicted after one time use, doesn't mean that I will".
Having had been in my ortho's office a "few" times in the past couple of years, I have noticed and have been notified of changes in some of the laws in scrip writing. They are cracking down on it somewhat, but it can still be a huge issue. Way too much money to be made by the pharma companies to outlaw pills. Sad, really, when you think about it.