Providers seek to better control controlled substances

Synthetic opioids were developed with the best of intentions — to harness the well-known sedative and pain-relieving qualities of opium without the harmful side effects. And, for the better part of a century, they have largely done that, as long as physicians prescribed them appropriately and patients carefully followed their doctors’ orders.

When overprescribed or misused, however, opioids and other powerful controlled substances can fuel cycles of dependence and addiction, sometimes with lethal consequences.

Before prescribing prescription drugs to their patients, physicians in many states are required to check their state's Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) database as a safeguard against the diversion and abuse of prescription medications. The rules vary from state to state, as well as which medications are covered by such programs, but most include a broad range of narcotics, tranquilizers, and stimulants.