Evaluating implementation of a consult to reduce new combination opioid and benzodiazepine prescriptions at the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System

Abstract

National guidelines recommend against initiating concurrent opioids and benzodiazepines due to opioid overdose risk; however, limited evidence exists evaluating implementation strategies. The San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System implemented an electronic clinical pharmacy specialist consult to evaluate new combination opioid and benzodiazepine requests. Reviewing pharmacists often recommend alternative therapies and safety strategies.