Back in 1970, the Poison Prevention Packaging Act introduced the concept of child resistant packaging standards for children younger than 5. The result was child-resistant caps that led to a 45% decrease in prescription-related fatalities in young children. It’s nearly half a century later, the opioid epidemic is peaking, and it’s time for more secure solutions for packaging. A recent article from CantonRep.com notes House Bill 231 could be the solution. The bill, sponsored by a range of republican representatives, will make locking vials available for dispensing controlled substances by pharmacies in Ohio.
A national survey found that 88% of adults who were prescribed an opioid in the last year and live with children 7-17 failed to store their pills in a locked place. Not a good idea considering opioids have been identified as the second-most common drug-use category for children 12-17, and the majority of them get their drugs from a friend or relative. HB231 is currently being considered by the House Health Committee, but if passed could have a serious impact on saving lives in Ohio.
