July 5, 2007

Several generic manufacturers of oxycodone extended-release have discontinued their products, including Endo, Dava, and Watson. A generic product AB-rated to Oxycontin is still available from Teva and the company plans on selling product at least through 2007.

Some health plans are changing coverage for patients as a result of the discontinuations. Verify patient coverage before initiating oxycodone extended-release therapy, as some health plans may require a trial of a different long-acting opioid before granting coverage for oxycodone extended-release.

• ASHP Shortage Resource Center:
  http://www.ashp.org/s_ashp/bulletin.asp?id=252&CID=1500&DID=1544&sort=0
   
• University of Utah Hospital Shortage Website (Intranet only):
  http://intranet.uuhsc.utah.edu/pharmacy/shortages/oxycodone_er_tablets.html