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The Opioid Crisis: REMS Supplemental Module
Guidelines and Tools for Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse
Keyword(s)
Opioids, Chronic Pain Management, Providers
Credit Information
1 CME
Publisher
Colorado Consortium for Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention
Description
Although many types of prescription drugs are abused, there is currently a growing, deadly epidemic of prescription painkiller abuse. According to the CDC, nearly three out of four prescription drug overdoses are caused by prescription painkillers. The unprecedented rise in overdose deaths in the US parallels a 300% increase since 1999 in the sale of these strong painkillers. These drugs were involved in 14,800 overdose deaths in 2008, more than cocaine and heroin combined.
In April 2011, FDA announced the elements of a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) to ensure that the benefits of extended-release and long-acting (ER/LA) opioid analgesics outweigh the risks. The REMS supports national efforts to address the prescription drug abuse epidemic.
Target Audience
This 1-hour course is specifically designed to raise awareness among health professionals who are authorized to prescribe, dispense, and administer controlled substances – including clinicians, pharmacists and nurses. Only a collaborative effort among prescribers, providers and regulators can succeed in promoting appropriate use of controlled substances while minimizing their abuse and diversion.
Providers that complete this course will:
- Understand the significance of the opioid epidemic and how prescribers can help
- Be familiar with how to initiate therapy, modify dose, and discontinue use of opioids
- Recognize the warning signs of abuse, and how to avoid diversion and abuse
- Know how to counsel patients and caregivers about the safe use, safe storage and safe disposal of opioids
- Be familiar with general and specific characteristics of ER/LA opioid products that are often prescribed and the guidelines and recommendations around prescribing them
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