The report also found almost 22.5 million narcotic painkiller prescriptions were written in the state in 2010 — a 36 percent increase from 2007. Prescriptions for hydrocodone, the main ingredient in Vicodin, increased 16.7 percent.
Mr. Schneiderman issued the report to bolster support for his proposed drug-tracking system. Currently, pharmacists are required to report sales of controlled substances at least every 45 days, but individual prescriptions are not tracked and pharmacists can’t validate prescriptions unless they call the prescribing physicians. Mr. Schneiderman’s system would provide a real-time tracking database. Physicians would be required to check the database prior to prescribing a drug and report prescriptions of the most dangerous drugs. Pharmacists would have to confirm the prescriptions on the database before filling them.
Sign up for our FREE Pain E-Weekly for more coverage like this sent to your inbox!
Related Articles on Pain Management:
Listening to Music Reduces Pain, Anxiety During Biopsies
Dr. James Dalfino of Connecticut Disc & Laser Therapy Centers Launches Use of Cutting-Edge Laser Pain Treatments
Report: Analysis of Nociceptive and Neuropathic Drug Development
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
