Using Prescription Opioids Responsibly
Despite increasing restrictions, some medical situations may still occur where you may be prescribed opioids. If and when you or a family member receive a prescription for opioids, there are several steps you can take to limit use and manage a prescription safely.
Manage your prescription safely
1) Limit your use
Unlike antibiotics, opioids do not require you to use the full dose. In fact, the less you take, the safer you are. You may feel some pain, but pain after physical trauma is to be expected. You should only take what you need and never take more than is prescribed. As soon as you feel comfortable, you should stop taking the pills.
2) Promptly get rid of any leftovers
There is no reason to hang onto your pills. If your pain returns, it means your physical ailment has not fully healed, and you should visit your doctor. Holding onto pills makes it easy for you or a loved one to inappropriately use opioids, which can have dire consequences. To dispose of leftover pills, click here or call your doctor.
3) Prevent access by others
Children, family members, and guests may try to take your opioid pills. Too often, people assume medications that come from a doctor are risk-free. This is not true, especially with strong depressants like opioids. The amount that you are prescribed could be deadly to someone else, so keep your opioids hidden and/or in a locked place to prevent access by others.
