Safe Use
Careful use of your medication ensures that your prescriptions are benefiting you as intended and reduces risk to yourself, family, and friends.
Always take prescription drugs as prescribed by your physician. Know the dangers associated with mixing drugs and alcohol and how to prevent accidental overdose.
Know the Signs and Symptoms of Misuse
Watch for these signs in yourself and others to detect the signs of misuse or abuse. If you suspect you or a loved one may be at risk for addiction, please reach out to one of our resources for help.
- Taking painkillers more often, even when not experiencing much discomfort
- Spending more and more time obtaining prescriptions
- Cash, valuables, or medicine missing from home
- Mood and personality changes, becoming defensive
- Excessive drowsiness and lack of appetite
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Increasingly sensitive to normal sights, sounds, or emotions
- Blackouts and forgetfulness
Online Prescriptions
Be wary of buying prescriptions online. The majority of websites selling prescriptions are operating illegally.
Alternative Treatment for Pain
Opiates are undoubtedly effective at relieving pain. However when used repeatedly, unexpected consequences can occur. A physical addiction, for example, can develop within 7 days of prescription painkiller use. Alternative treatment options like acupuncture or massage therapy can be effective for treating chronic pain. More information on different options can be found here. Please consult with your treatment team before starting any treatment.
If you are working with a treatment team, this handout can provide you with suggestions of topics to discuss.
Helpful Links
- Review common situations in which prescriptions drugs are often misused
Keep track of medications you are currently taking and prepare for your doctor's visit with these resources: