FDA Approves Abuse-Deterrent Formulation of Controversial Opioid Zohydro ER

The company that manufactures Zohydro ER has secured federal approval for a reformulation of the drug that contains abuse-deterrent features, answering the most common concern opponents of the medication raised last year. After the Food and Drug Administration’s 2013 approval of Zohydro, an extended-release pure hydrocodone pill, opponents across the country protested the decision. A coalition of more than 70 advocacy groups marched on Washington, D.C., demanding the commissioner of the administration’s resignation in September. Attorneys general from 29 states sent letters to...