To help address the opioid epidemic in New England, Alkermes will host an educational event featuring Arturo Taca, M.D., a renowned addiction specialist, in Warwick on July 20. The live event will offer an opportunity to hear about addiction and the recovery process from a health care professional, learn about a non-addictive treatment option for opioid dependence, and listen to a story of one person's journey with addiction.

Opioid addiction is a national problem with wide-reaching implications for patients, caregivers, law enforcement and health care providers, among others. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, prescription opioid overdoses have more than tripled in the past 20 years. The CDC also notes that more than 28,000 people, in 2014, died from opioid usage, more than any year on record.

The program will start at 6:30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza. Check in is at 6.

To register for this free informative program, visit www.ForumForThem.com or call 1-844-524-9037. Complimentary parking and light meal will be provided.

All attendees must be 18 years or older to participate. Alkermes, a global pharmaceutical company, is sponsoring the event. Arturo C. Taca, M.D., is a paid speaker of Alkermes. This event is not intended for the medical or health care community.