The opioid crisis is raging throughout the nation and while steps are being taken to address it, many are losing patience. Michigan is part of a coalition of 48 states that have taken action to hold the federal Food and Drug Administration accountable for their efforts in combating opioid addiction.
The coalition is looking for a progress report from the FDA clarifying how they are using their authority given under the SUPPORT Act to prevent and treat the crisis. The SUPPORT Act has provisions that include safer packaging and disposal features for opioids, new regulations on non-addictive alternatives to opioids, and prescribing guidelines.
Michigan’s Attorney General Dana Nessel said, “The opioid epidemic has been devastating for states in terms of lives lost and the strain it has imposed on both our health care system and economy. Patients suffering from chronic pain or addiction are particularly vulnerable, and if we are going to protect these patients and combat this epidemic, we must start by holding the FDA accountable for their role in this crisis.”
A link to the letter:
FDA Letter – NAAG.pdf (ca.gov)
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
