AfPA’s video highlights new technology and pill formulations that deter individuals from abusing opioids

Video explains why innovative pill formulations offer a new option for battling prescription opioid abuse

Today the Alliance for Patient Access (AfPA) released a new white board video, "A Prescription for Reducing Opioid Abuse." The video, released to coincide with National Pain Awareness Month, highlights new technology and innovative pill formulations that deter individuals from abusing opioids.

Abuse-deterrent technology could aid policymakers and physicians in reducing the 16,000 deaths annually that stem from prescription pain medication abuse. However, some insurers require exorbitant cost-sharing for the medications, putting abuse-deterrent formulations out of reach for many patients. For abuse-deterrent technology to help reduce opioid abuse, insurers must avoid punishing patients with unmanageable prices.

Abuse-deterrent pain pills thwart specific types of abuse, in particular intravenous and intranasal. Their design makes these pills harder to crush or liquefy. Some forms resist abuse by remaining inactive until they reach the stomach or intestines. Other forms contain a substance that counters the effects of the opioid when crushed.

Patient access to appropriate pain treatment poses complex challenges for policymakers and health care providers alike. Several states, including Colorado, Indiana, Utah, and Maryland, are taking measures to ensure fair access to these medications.