The DEA's Office of Diversion Control has worked alongside the pharmaceutical industry over the past several years to develop the electronic version of the current ordering system for Schedule II controlled substances.
Joseph Rannazzisi, Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator, Office of Diversion Control, says, "This new system will save millions of dollars for the government and industry. By eliminating the printing, processing, and maintaining of the paper forms we have brought ordering of Schedule II drugs into the 21st century. CSOS will help reduce errors, and allow orders to be filled more quickly."
Upon its implementation, some 600 participants were already registered to use the program.
Before the paperless system, pharmaceutical industry reps were required by law to submit a three part form for all purchases of Schedule II controlled substances. This form was maintained by the supplier and the purchaser, as well as the DEA.
CSOS now provides a secure and authenticated means for industry to electronically submit orders for Schedule II controlled substances directly to their supplier - helping patients get prescriptions quicker.
The development of the CSOS project is the first time the DEA and pharmaceutical industry have worked together to create a system that meets both government regulations and industry needs.
Schedule II controlled substances include Morphine, various forms of Opium, and OxyContin.
