The FDA's Opioid Analgesic Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy, approved in September, includes several measures to train health professionals on the use of opioid medications and their risks. The FDA requires provider training for all opioid analgesics used in outpatient settings, according to the American Pharmacist Association.
Here are the key details to know:
1. The expanded REMS is the first strategy to apply to immediate release opioid analgesics for use in an outpatient setting.
2. Under the modified Opioid Analgesic REMS, 347 outpatient opioid analgesics will be included under the requirements.
3. The REMS also includes training for healthcare providers who manage patients with pain.
4. Drug companies will supply grants for the development of accredited education courses for healthcare providers, covering topics on the proper selection of analgesics and clinical oversight for dispensing opioids.