Reducing the Risks for Pain Medication Addiction
A few prescription pain management medications, such as opioids, can be addictive. Keep in mind that addiction and dependence are two different things that doctors and patients must differentiate early on as the symptoms and treatment are different, too. It is important to take prescription pain medications under the close medical supervision of doctors at any of the Healthpointe clinics, such as the Irwindale clinic (near Duarte, Azusa, West Covina, Vincent, and Mayflower Village).
Opioids are the most common family of prescription pain medications with an increased risk for addiction among susceptible persons. These drugs have similar effects as opium and morphine, which are known addictive illicit drugs. These medications include:
- Codeine
- Fetanyl
- Oxycodone
- Morphine
- Meperidine
- Hydrocodone
- Hydromorphone
All of these drugs are sold under brand names although prescription is required before these can be dispensed by pharmacists and their staff. Prescriptions are required precisely because of the significantly increased risks for addiction, even the lower level form of physical tolerance or dependence, when these drugs are used for prolonged periods without close medical supervision.
Fortunately, not everybody taking prescription pain medications is at risk for addiction even when the drugs are used for prolonged periods. High-risk individuals, however, include those who have already been addicted to substances or those who with family members with past or present addiction to drugs and alcohol. If you fall into any of these high-risk categories, then you should inform your doctor about it so that appropriate preventive measures can be made.
On your part, the best way to avoid addiction to prescription pain medications – particularly narcotics – is to take the drugs as recommended by your doctor. Increasing and decreasing your dosages, including the strength of the drug and its frequency, will increase your chances for addiction.
You should also share your medical history with drugs as well as those of your family members especially where substance abuse and addiction are concerned; the substance can be alcohol, over-the-counter pain relievers, and anti-anxiety drugs, among others. Your doctor will be able to address your fears of addiction by providing more information and resources regarding your painkillers, setting regular visits to monitor your reaction, and adjusting the dosages, as needed.
And don’t hesitate about telling your doctor of any untoward symptoms you may experience with the prescription pain medication – it may well save you from the brink of addiction or tolerance.
Ask our Heathpointe doctors about prescription pain medication addiction. Visit any of our clinics, such as the La Mirada clinic near Whittier, La Habra, Norwalk, Cerritos, Buena Park, and Santa Fe Springs.
About Healthpointe:
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including La Mirada, which is conveniently located by Whittier, La Habra, Norwalk, Cerritos, Buena Park, and Santa Fe Springs. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.