The FDA is requiring drug manufacturers to provide and pay for physicians' training relating to immediate-release opioids, Medscape reports.
Here's what you should know:
1. The provision is similar to what the FDA requires for extended-release formulations.
2. FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD, estimates 90 percent of all opioid prescriptions are for immediate-release formulas.
3. Although drug manufacturers will be required to pay for and provide the training, physicians can voluntarily opt-out of it.
4. Dr. Gottlieb said the FDA is considering requiring mandatory training for all providers. Currently, only nurses and pharmacists must complete the training.
5. The American Medical Association opposes mandating the training.