Federal health advisers say a government proposal to curb misuse of powerful painkillers does not go far enough to fix a problem linked to hundreds of fatal overdoses annually.
The Food and Drug Administration summoned a panel of 35 outside experts to review its plan to reduce the misuse and abuse of long-acting pain relievers. The agency’s plan consists mainly of educating doctors and patients about appropriate use of the drugs.
But the FDA panel voted 25-10 Friday to reject the agency’s proposal, saying more requirements and training are needed for health professionals who prescribe the drugs.
The government’s proposal would apply to extended release versions of opioid drugs like morphine, oxycodone and methadone.
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