non-medical reasons can lead to dependence, addiction and even death, the FDA cautions.
Can I get a medication guide?
Side effects from opioid use include dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, nausea and constipation. Familiarize yourself with the side effects so that you and your family know when to call a doctor, go to the hospital or call 911.
Ask your pharmacist for a Medication Guide handout to learn more about your prescription.
Reduce the chances for serious side effects by taking the drug exactly as prescribed. If you still feel pain, call a doctor — don’t take an extra dose.
I have a history of substance abuse, are opioids still safe for me?
It’s important to tell your doctor if you have a history of a substance use disorder involving drugs or alcohol or if any of your friends and family have had this type of disorder.
Always tell your doctor about all of your other prescription and over-the-counter medicines, especially those prescribed to treat anxiety, sleeping problems or seizures. These could interact with opioids, even if you take them only occasionally.
How to properly store and discard your medication
If you have kids of any age at home, use a lockbox for your medications. Children can accidentally overdose on these drugs. It’s possible that teens, visitors and others in your home may look for pain medications, so it’s important to be aware of that, the FDA notes.
Leftover medication should be properly discarded. The FDA has a list of opioid pain medicines that can be flushed down the toilet, but others are better left at a drug take-back program. Some pharmacies have on-site medicine drop-off boxes, mail-back programs and other methods for safe disposal.
Never share your medication; it may kill someone else, the FDA warns.
Talk with your healthcare provider about naloxone, a drug that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It can make sense to be prepared.
Some naloxone products require a prescription. In some states, consumers may be able to get naloxone from a pharmacist without a prescription.