Preventive opioid management solution launched

As part of PharmAssist^®, our drug management program, we are pleased to announce the launch next month of our preventative opioid management solution.

In collaboration with our partner Express Scripts Canada (ESC), this initiative is part of our mission to provide our clients with innovative solutions and ensure the health of our group insurance plan members.

The preventive opioid management solution focuses on reducing early exposure to opioids by implementing pharmacy measures during the dispensing process. The goal is to reduce the risk of plan members developing chronic opioid use.

What are the measures to ensure better management of opioid prescriptions?

—   For a first prescription, provide a limited starting quantity

• Without restricting access, this measure aims to minimize exposure to opioids by providing plan members with an initial supply of opioids for up to 7 days. The remaining portion of the prescription will remain in the plan member's file and can be filled if necessary.

—   Try short-acting opioids first

• This measure contributes to safe initial therapy by encouraging plan members to use a short-acting opioid first.

In addition to helping reduce the risk of developing tolerance and dependence on opioids, these measures can also help to quickly detect the development of side effects.

No action is required on your part. The preventive opioid management solution will be automatically added to our clients' drug plans on September 1.

We are convinced that the implementation of this solution will promote plan members’ health while optimizing the sound management of our clients' drug plans.

If you have any questions, please contact your advisor or your iA Financial Group Account Executive.