FDA Approves New Abuse-Deterrent Single-Entity Hydrocodone Product

FDA has approved a new opioid analgesic medication with abuse-deterrent properties that make the drug difficult to crush, break, or dissolve. The new medication, Hysingla^® ER (hydrocodone bitartrate) is an extended-release medication intended to treat pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate. The abuse-deterrent properties are expected to reduce, but not entirely prevent, abuse of the drug when chewed and then taken orally, or crushed and snorted or injected, indicates an FDA press release. The agency notes, however, that abuse of Hysingla ER by these routes is still possible, and that taking too much can still lead to an overdose that may result in death.