The dentist and prescription drug abuse

Because dentists are authorized to prescribe narcotic drugs to their patients, they may be sought out by "drug seeking individuals" (DSI), disguised as patients, who are engaged in the illegal diversion of pharmaceutical-quality drugs to the street market. Two common methods of gaining illegal access to pharmaceutical-quality narcotics for resale on the street are: forgery and verbal misrepresentation, and multiple doctoring. The diversion of such drugs can produce a very high rate of return for DSIs, with only a minimal risk of arrest and conviction. This paper discusses the problem of DSIs, and how dentists can reduce the risk of becoming involved in the illegal diversion of narcotics. Prudent judgment and responsible prescribing by the dentist will increase the effectiveness of his or her practice, and help to abate a growing social problem.