In addition, the Connecticut-based drug maker is distributing a health curriculum in Boston called Painfully Obvious, which warns teenagers about the hazards of misusing medications.

Barbara Ferrer, the city's deputy health director, said the grant would enable the Boston Public Health Commission to hire two educators and one trainer in its efforts to reach teens who take part in risky behaviors.

Some health organizations have been trying to prohibit Purdue Pharma's prevention efforts in their communities, saying it's a public-relations campaign by the company.

"The 'Painfully Obvious' campaign is in no way based on the principles of effective prevention," said Rhonda Ramsey Molina, president of the Coalition for a Drug-Free Greater Cincinnati.

Cities in Maine, Ohio, South Carolina, and West Virginia have received grants from Purdue Pharma in the past, but Boston is the first major city to receive the funding.