The DEA plans to reduce the total opioid production in 2017. Could this be part of the strategy to squeeze the supply of opioid medications in the marketplace? The decrease may vary by product but the overall decline is about 25%.  This change seems large until learning that previous production levels included a 25% buffer to avoid drug shortages.  What are your thoughts about this reduction?  Will this have any affect on each of the different stakeholders? Is this part of the DEA’s strategy to combat opioid addiction in the country?  Will this situation drive more patients to seek illicit drugs?

http://www.pharmacytimes.com/news/dea-reduces-opioid-manufacturing-for-2017