FDA aims to curb painkiller misuse

WASHINGTON (AP) — SAFE USE: The Food and Drug Administration hopes to reduce fatal overdoses from powerful painkillers by providing more education and training to doctors and patients who use long-acting opioid drugs. LONG-ACTING RISKS: The products targeted by the FDA feature extended-release formulations designed to provide longer-lasting pain relief, but which can be dangerous when used inappropriately. INCREASED EDUCATION: Under the FDA plan, drugmakers will fund educational classes to help doctors, nurses and other health care professionals safely prescribe the drugs. Patients will receive a one-page guide on safely taking their medication.