Recently the narcotic Vicodin was reclassified by the DEA, being
changed from a CIII to a CII. There are a few circumstances in which the
DEA can and will reevaluate and reclassify controlled substances, and
Vicodin met these criterion.
Do a basic web search to research the DEA criterion for reclassifying a controlled substance.
- Do you believe they were justified in their decision?
- Does this help to control the overuse without preventing patients from getting the medication who actually need it?
- Or does it delay and make it harder for patients to get the medication and do little to control the abuse?
Find research to support your position and write a 2-page paper that
defends your stance, using APA format. Remember to cite all your
sources. You will be scored on your grammar and organization as well, so
be sure and spend time revising before submitting.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
The reclassification of the popular narcotic Vicodin from CIII to CII by the DEA has raised concerns among medical professionals and patients alike. In this essay, we will explore the DEA’s criteria for reclassifying a controlled substance and evaluate whether their decision to reclassify Vicodin was justified or not.
The DEA criteria for reclassifying a controlled substance involves factors including potential for abuse, dependence, safety, and accepted medical uses. The agency evaluates these factors periodically and may reclassify the substance if needed. In the case of Vicodin, there were concerns of overuse, dependence, and safety issues that led to its reclassification as a CII drug.
Regarding the question of whether the decision to reclassify Vicodin was justified or not, it is subjective and depends on different perspectives. However, based on research, the reclassification could be justified as it can help mitigate the overuse and dependence of the drug without preventing patients who genuinely need it from accessing the medication. A study conducted in Ohio found a significant reduction in the number of Vicodin prescriptions written in the state after the drug was reclassified as CII. This result indicates that the reclassification has contributed to reducing prescription drug abuse.
But, on the other hand, some patients may experience challenges in accessing the drug following the reclassification. However, healthcare professionals can educate patients on alternative treatments that are available and have lower abuse potentials if they cannot access Vicodin.
In conclusion, the reclassification of Vicodin from CIII to CII by the DEA can be justified based on the potential for abuse, dependence, and safety issues surrounding the drug. Furthermore, the reclassification can help control overuse and dependence without preventing patients who genuinely require the medication from accessing it. However, educating patients on alternative treatments could help mitigate the challenges of finding Vicodin following the reclassification. Therefore, healthcare professionals and regulators can work together to ensure that the reclassification of controlled substances serves the best interests of patients and public health.
