Drug Monitoring: Program Description

The 2005 North Dakota Legislative Assembly authorized the implementation of a Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. The purpose of this program is to collect data on all Schedule II, III, IV, and V controlled substances, which for the purpose of this program, includes Tramadol and Carisoprodol, dispensed in the state of North Dakota or for patients residing in North Dakota. This was authorized by North Dakota Century Code chapter 19-03.5 and rules of the Board of Pharmacy.

The Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) encourages cooperation and coordination among state, local and federal agencies. Specific initiatives include early identification of individuals involved in diversion or abuse of controlled substances and the education of the public, prescribers, pharmacists, and law enforcement. Approximately 26 states have implemented similar programs and 11 states are in the process. Future plans include formation of an intrastate collaboration with surrounding states to reduce inappropriate distribution regionally.

All controlled substance prescriptions plus Tramadol and Carisoprodol (opiate drugs with high abuse potential) written and dispensed for a North Dakota patient are transferred to the PDMP data repository by the dispenser. This information has been collected retroactively since January 1st, 2007. All out-of-state pharmacies licensed with the North Dakota Board also submit data on prescriptions dispensed for North Dakota residents.

An advisory board consisting of prescribers, pharmacists and law enforcement appointed by their individual boards has been established to determine ways the program can improve patient care and reduce the misuse of controlled substances. The advisory board approved the sharing of patient profiles between healthcare providers when a patient is receiving care from multiple prescribers and pharmacists.

All qualified prescribers and pharmacists may access profile information on their individual patients, as may law enforcement or professional agencies conducting an investigation by faxing the appropriate request form to 701-328-9536. A copy of this form may be obtained by accessing the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program page and downloading the appropriate form.

Cooperation between all entities should help facilitate improving patient therapy and ensuring the health and safety of the citizens of our State and the region.