Minnesota medicine
-
The Minnesota Prescription Monitoring Program, which was launched by the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy last year, is collecting data on prescriptionsof controlled substances. Reporting is required from in-state pharmacies and others including physicians who dispense medications as well as from out-of-state pharmacies that ship controlled substances to Minnesota residents. This article describes the program, how it works, and how it can benefit physicians.
-
The Internet has opened the door to marketers of products that contain substances that when ingested mimic the effects of illegal drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, and LSD. This article traces the history of synthetic drugs, describes some of the newest substances on the market and their physiologic and psychological effects, and discusses efforts aimed at curbing their sale and use.