'Jacko's drug use concerned family' (From Surrey Comet)

'Jacko's drug use concerned family'

7:20pm Thursday 9th July 2009

• Print
• Email
• Share

Friends and family of Michael Jackson had grown increasingly concerned over the pop star's use of heavy medication in the last years of his life, it has emerged.

Sources told CNN that Jackson's sister Janet tried to stage an intervention but was thwarted by her brother's security guards.

Meanwhile, the singer's friend and dermatologist Dr Arnold Klein has said he repeatedly warned Jackson against using the powerful sedative Diprivan.

Investigators are focusing on the role that the medication may have had in the singer's death. Diprivan was among the substances found in Jackson's rented LA mansion, according to law enforcement officials.

Speaking on CNN's Larry King Live, Dr Klein said he wasn't surprised that investigators had found several bottles of prescription drugs at Jackson's home.

The doctor said he occasionally administered the painkiller Demerol, but told Jackson that he was "insane" for turning to Diprivan to help with insomnia.

And it appears Jackson's dermatologist was not the only one with concerns. Reports also emerged that Janet Jackson was so worried about her brother's emaciated appearance in 2007 that she tried to intervene.

But according to CNN, Janet's attempt - supported by other members of the Jackson family - was unsuccessful. The Thriller singer allegedly ordered his security team not to allow them entry and even refused to take calls from his mother Katherine.

Results of a toxicology report that could reveal the role of Diprivan in Jackson's death could still be weeks away. But medication is known to be central to the investigation. Police in Los Angeles have called in the Drug Enforcement Administration to assist in the probe.

• Print
• Email
• Share