Connect
← Return to The CDC and FDA are trying to cut back opioids by 25% nation wide
Discussion
The CDC and FDA are trying to cut back opioids by 25% nation wide
Chronic Pain | Last Active: Dec 7, 2016 | Replies (27)Comment receiving replies
@barbara94, my understanding of the DEA's authority is that it focuses on drug manufacturers -- setting ceilings on the amount of a medication that a manufacturer may produce AND sell. Its influence on pharmacists is indirect -- through the pharmaceutical manufacturers, as I understand it. Does this make a difference?
I'm not sure, but it looks like we patients have the power to make demands of our medical treatment teams as well as our pharmacists, without encountering DEA authority or enforcement. I'd be inclined to argue with my pharmacist, just as I argue with the first medical specialist who gives me a quick and convenient (for him or her) diagnosis and treatment plan. This is another chance to stand up against misguided medical advice.
Replies to "@barbara94, my understanding of the DEA's authority is that it focuses on drug manufacturers -- setting..."
@barbara94, I have no concern about a "lack of supply" and don't remember using the term. In fact, if I understand you correctly, we probably are on the same page of the opioid-control bible.
To lay out additional thoughts, some medical professionals are carelessly writing prescriptions for people who are simply addicts or in the business of supplying opioids to addicts. Pharmaceutical companies like these professionals because they are expanding the market for synthetic drugs; the DEA's control of drug output of each company is their legal way of attacking the supply problem.
Other medical professionals, wary of being branded by enforcement-committed government agents, have cut opioid prescriptions down -- sometimes to near nothing -- caring more for themselves and less for their patients. In those cases, the supply has shriveled, leaving dependent patients in pain and addicted patients in search of new sources, incentivizing suppliers. This behavior is attributed repeatedly to suspicions that CDC and the FDA are collecting data on individual medical professionals, pharmacies, and patients and, in doing so, setting them up for prosecution or, at least, public embarrassment.
A broad and inclusive strategy is essential. Instead we have "regulators," providers, physicians, and patients working in isolation from each other to solve their peculiar problems. They all need to sit down together, listen to each other, set aside their beliefs in favor of facts, and agree on an enduring strategy.
@predictable, I'm sorry if I seemed to infer that you mentioned the supply end. Certainly didn't intend that. Just wanted to add to the discussion.<br>And you're correct that we are on the same page. You're just much more articulate than I.<br>Always appreciate your input.<br><br>
Connect
@predictable, I meant to reply to this post when you posted it. Our daughter and son-in-law, both pharmacists at the local VA hospital, and he, specializing in pain management, assure me that the problem isn't with "lack of supply." Rather it's government authorities believing they need to do something to look like they are responding to the illicit epidemic. Problem with that attack is, it penalizes legitimate, suffering patients, (as you well understand), and does absolutely nothing to curb the epidemic of substance abuse. This is what I wonder-- how adamant would these beauracrats be if a member of their immediate family suffered unbearable pain? I have to believe they would be more careful!