Prescription Monitoring Programs (PMPs) are highly effective tools for reducing prescription drug abuse and diversion. PMPs monitor electronically transmitted prescribing and dispensing data submitted by pharmacies and other dispensers. The data are used to support states’ efforts in education, research, enforcement and abuse prevention.

States recognize the medical need for controlled substances and, therefore, PMPs do not interfere with appropriate, medical use. Prescription data access is granted only to entities authorized by state law, such as health care practitioners, pharmacists, regulatory boards and law enforcement agencies.