FDA Approves Opioid with Abuse-Deterrent Properties

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a short-acting formulation of oxycodone (Oxecta, Pfizer) that uses “Aversion” technology to stop potential abusers from crushing, chewing, snorting, or injecting the drug. Oral abuse remains possible. In addition, Pfizer acknowledged that the potential to abuse the drug through all routes is feasible.

The drug is indicated for acute and chronic moderate-to-severe pain.