NACDS Statement on FDA's Recommendation to Reschedule Hydrocodone

PRESS RELEASE

Arlington, Va. - NACDS issued the following statement on October 24 regarding news that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is recommending the rescheduling of combination hydrocodone medications from Schedule III to Schedule II:

“Pharmacies have a zero tolerance for prescription drug abuse and a 100-percent commitment to patient care. This proposal is not the best avenue to address abuse, and would negatively impact access to needed medications for those who suffer from chronic pain. In the interest of patient care, we have worked with patient advocacy groups in opposition to this recommendation as we support and advance workable solutions.”

For more information, please see a recent column by NACDS President and CEO Steven C. Anderson, IOM, CAE, titled “Addressing Prescription Drug Abuse and Access Issues — Every Day.”