Roles of Pharmacy Technicians in Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse

Objective:To provide and identify potential roles and strategies for pharmacy technicians to identify and prevent drug abuse within the pharmacy.Data Sources:Related materials were searched via PubMed and Google Scholar from 2000 to present using search terms: "pharmacy," "technicians," "prescription," "drug," and "abuse." Articles describing statistics, warning signs, and prevention strategies for pharmacies were identified through databases and organizations' sites. Portions of the Ohio Administrative Code on OARRS (Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System), and Pennsylvania prescription drug monitoring program information were also identified.Study Selection and Data Extraction:Relevant sections of the Ohio Administrative Code and OARRS were identified through the Ohio Board of Pharmacy website. Information regarding the Pennsylvania Prescription Drug Monitoring was identified via Pennsylvania's Department of Health website. Sections of the Combat Methamphetamine Act of 2005 were identified through the Drug Enforcement Administration Diversion website. Resources on drug abuse and prevention statistics were obtained from Drug Abuse.gov and American Society of Health System Pharmacists. Information regarding warning signs were identified from the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.Data Synthesis:The data provided for identification of potential roles for technicians within efforts to prevent prescription drug abuse, including evaluation of warning signs, involvement in the use of prescription monitoring programs, and in efforts to prevent methamphetamine abuse and diversion.Conclusions:After identifying potential roles for pharmacy technician involvement in the prevention of prescription drug abuse, it is evident that there is a need for further education and training on the subject specific to pharmacy technicians.