The President’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis recommended, in an interim report released July 31, that an opioid national emergency be immediately declared. The report cites an estimated overdose rate of 142 people a day.

The American Dental Association has been doing its part to combat the opioid crisis by informing dentists about how the drugs they prescribe in their offices can be potentially harmful. In a series of webinars, hosted by various speakers, dentists have learned about ways they can reduce opioid abuse, educate patients about the addictive qualities of painkillers, and preventing prescription opioid diversion.

These webinars have been recorded and are available on the ADA Center for Professional Success website.

Opioid Prescribing in Dental Medicine
Reducing Opioid Abuse
Legal and Ethical Issues of Opioid Prescribing for Acute Dental Pain
Preventing Prescription Opioid Diversion    
Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs
Safe Use, Storage, and Disposal of Medicines
Peer Assistance for the Dental Team Member with Opioid Dependency

In addition to these webinars, there are two FAQs on hydrocodone combination products (HCP) regulations.

FAQ on New HCP Regulations    
FAQ on New HCP Regulations, Part 2