In its most recent article, the HCPC reviewed how the FDA was looking at a variety of alternatives to stem the opioid epidemic. The HCPC has been involved in this effort by promoting the wide-ranging benefits of unit-dose blister packaging, from safeguarding medication efficacy to improved supply chain security and aiding medication adherence.
In January, the FDA issued letters to the manufacturers of OTC loperamide (branded as Imodium AD and also sold as private label/generic products) to be packaged in unit-dose packaging to limit the number of doses available for short-term use. This action was in response to an increase in purposeful misuse of loperamide by those suffering from opioid addiction. There has been a growing trend of abusers taking more than the recommended dose in order to alleviate opioid withdrawal symptoms or to obtain a euphoric effect. Overdosing on loperamide has resulted in serious heart problems and even death, according to the FDA. Thus, the agency seeks to limit the availability of the number of doses through blister packaging. As stated in the FDA communication, “Evidence suggests that package limitations and use of unit-dose packaging may reduce medication overdose and death.”