Clinical meaning
Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) are state-managed electronic databases that track controlled substance prescriptions dispensed to patients. PDMPs collect data at the point of dispensing, including patient identifiers, prescriber information, drug name, quantity, days supply, and date filled. The clinical rationale centers on identifying patients at risk for opioid use disorder, detecting doctor/pharmacy shopping, preventing dangerous drug combinations (opioid + benzodiazepine coprescribing), and supporting safe prescribing decisions. Most states mandate PDMP checks before prescribing Schedule II-IV controlled substances, with penalties for non-compliance.