Drugs

Philadelphia — Two physician groups are recommending topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – with or without menthol gel – as a non-opioid “first-line therapy” for treating acute pain from non-low-back musculoskeletal injuries.

Washington — The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has granted to recently furloughed commercial motor vehicle drivers a 90-day waiver from certain preemployment drug testing requirements, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Washington — The first report to use data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s new Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse shows that, from the database’s Sept. 28 launch through May, marijuana was the most common substance found in positive drug and alcohol tests among commercial motor vehicle drivers.

Itasca, IL — In response to news that at least 30 states are reporting increases in fatal opioid overdoses amid the COVID-19 pandemic – coupled with an ongoing concern about mental illness and substance use disorders – the National Safety Council is calling on employers to address worker stress, as well as emotional and mental health, now and as traditional work functions resume.

Washington — The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is seeking input on a proposed rule that would ban states from issuing commercial driver’s licenses to drivers with existing drug or alcohol violations, in an effort to eliminate what it calls a “regulatory loophole.”

Washington — NIOSH is asking for stakeholder comment on three draft documents pertaining to hazardous drugs in health care settings.

Washington — Taking ibuprofen or similar anti-inflammatory painkillers does not “worsen the course of disease” for people who contract COVID-19, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention official recently said in response to conflicting information shared on social media.

Washington — Aiming to assist rural communities in the fight against opioid misuse, the Office of National Drug Control Policy has partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture on a guide for employers.

Berkeley, CA — Cannabis industry workers may be at increased risk of respiratory problems as a result of on-the-job exposure to various hazards, results of a recent study led by a University of Washington professor indicate.

Washington — NIOSH is seeking comment on an agency plan to conduct research and develop resources on Workplace Supported Recovery Programs, which assist workers and employers affected by the nation’s opioid epidemic and other substance misuse disorders.