What is a Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP)?

A Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) is a statewide electronic database designed specifically to track the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances. These programs are established in many states to help reduce prescription drug abuse and monitor patient use of these medications. They serve as an important tool for healthcare providers, allowing them to access patients' medication histories before prescribing controlled substances, which helps to identify potential misuse or diversion of these drugs.

By being integrated into the healthcare system, PDMPs enable pharmacists and prescribers to make more informed decisions when it comes to patient care, leading to safer prescribing practices and better management of pain treatment and other conditions that may require controlled substances. This focuses on preventing overprescribing and potential dependency problems associated with certain medications.