Implementing electronic health record default settings to reduce opioid overprescribing: a pilot study.

Patients prescribed high doses of opioids for acute pain are at increased risk of developing long-term dependence. Researchers implemented a 15-pill default dose for Schedule II opioids in two emergency rooms. This initiative was feasible, not bothersome, and reduced high-dose prescriptions at one hospital. An Annual Perspective described other initiatives to reduce opioid-related harm.