Wisconsin Opioid Prescriptions Plunge in Face of Drug Monitoring

The number of opioid prescriptions continues to decline in Wisconsin, which is pushing for prescription reductions as part of its overall plan to combat the opioid crisis.

The Wisconsin Controlled Substances Board’s quarterly update on the state’s drug monitoring program showed a 32 percent decrease in opioid prescriptions dispensed in the state between Jan. 1, 2015, and Sept. 30, 2018.

The update, released Oct. 31, also showed the rate of decrease has slowed more recently. A much less dramatic decrease—9 percent—occurred during the 12 months ending Sept. 30, 2018.

“Overall, the trend of decreased dispensing of monitored prescription drugs continues ...