As FDA continues to seek a balance between minimizing opioid drug abuse and enabling the appropriate treatment of pain, the agency will hold a two-day public hearing to obtain information, such as scientific evidence and study data, on issues related to opioid use. At the hearing, to take place February 7-8, 2013, FDA seeks to obtain information from expert members of the public on the following topics:

• Diagnosis and Understanding of Patient Pain
  
• Understanding and Adhering to the Labels of Pain-Treating Products
  
• Limiting Opioid Prescription and Use

Those wishing to attend must register by January 18, 2013. Additional details and instructions for submitting written comments are available in a Federal Register notice.