Impact of hydrocodone reclassification on analgesic prescribing in the Veterans Health Administration.

Purpose: The impact of hydrocodone reclassification on analgesic prescribing in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) was quantified.

Methods: In this retrospective observational study, the volume of opioid medication dispensed was calculated quarterly from October 2011 to September 2015 using national VHA administrative data. Four volume measures were examined (prescription count, tablets dispensed, days' supply dispensed, and unique patients) for 4 opioid groups: hydrocodone combination products (HCPs), other opioid combination products, tramadol, and single-agent Schedule II opioids.

Pharmacy informatics: A call to action for educators, administrators, and residency directors.

Pharmacy informatics involves the customization and application of information technology to improve medication-related processes. It is a critical function given the recent expansion of technology and prevalence of medication use throughout healthcare. Despite the necessity for pharmacy involvement, many pharmacists and student pharmacists are unaware of how to get started in informatics.