Abuse Deterrent Opioid Formulations:A Review

Over last decade the number of prescriptions for opioid analgesics has been increased. Opioids are essential in the management of pain in many patients, but they are associated with the potential risks for abuse, overdose and mortality. There are number of efforts made in the development of abuse deterrent formulations of opioids to reduce these risks. These formulations deter or resist the abuse of opioid analgesics. Different types of abuse deterrent formulations of opioids have been or are currently being developed with the potential to reduce abuse and other risks associated with opioids. This article summarizes the potential for prescription opioid abuse, development of various abuse deterrent opioid formulations, patented abuse deterrent technologies and various abuse deterrent formulations currently in market.