Book Description

In the midst of national concern over illicit drug use and abuse, prescription drug abuse has been identified as the U.S.' fastest growing drug problem. Nearly all prescription drugs involved in overdoses are originally prescribed by a physician (rather than, for ex., being stolen from pharmacies). Thus, attention has been directed toward preventing the diversion of prescription drugs after the prescriptions are dispensed. Prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) maintain statewide electronic databases of prescriptions dispensed for controlled substances (i.e., prescription drugs of abuse that are subject to stricter government regulation). Information collected by PDMPs may be used to support access to and legitimate medical use of controlled substances; identify or prevent drug abuse and diversion; facilitate the identification of prescription drug-addicted individuals and enable intervention and treatment; outline drug use and abuse trends to inform public health initiatives; or educate individuals about prescription drug use, abuse, and diversion as well as about PDMPs. How PDMPs are organized and operated varies among states. Contents of this report: Introduction; PDMPs; PDMP Effectiveness; Federal Grant Programs for State PDMPs; Selected Policy Issues. Tables. This is a print on demand report.