The study, published online July 2 in Production and Operations Management, focused on mandated use of Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs). “Easy access to prescription opioids can further exacerbate opioid dependence and abuse,” he said. Despite the reduction, though, the researchers determined the policy did not reduce deaths due to prescription opioids. Kim speculates that placing supply restrictions on prescription opioids might have led patients to seek out dangerous and illegal alternatives. Keyword searches for prescription opioids such as OxyContin and Vicodin decreased post-policy, while searches for heroin increased significantly.