Buzz
Opioids can be the most effective painkiller for certain conditions, and with responsible use, they can be safe. However, new research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reveals that doctors are frequently prescribing them unnecessarily, which may contribute to the growing issue of addiction.
Opioids are highly effective for managing short-term pain, but their use for chronic conditions like back pain may not always be appropriate. A study examining doctor visits between 2006 and 2015 found that opioids were often prescribed to patients who did not have a documented pain diagnosis. It remains unclear whether this was due to incorrect data entry or improper prescribing.
It’s important to pay attention when you’re prescribed opioids. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, here are some of the most commonly prescribed opioids:
Oxycodone (Oxycontin, Percocet, Percodan, and others)
Hydrocodone or dihydrocodeinone, which combine opioids with an analgesic (Vicodin, Lorcet, Lortab, and others)
Morphine (Kadian, Avinza, MS Contin, Duramorph, Roxanol)
Codeine (under many generic names)
Fentanyl (Duragesic, Actiq, Sublimaze)
Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
Meperidine (Demerol)
Oxymorphone (Opana)
Important Questions to Ask
Before you leave the clinic, make sure to inquire about any prescribed medications: What exactly is this drug, and what purpose does it serve? If you’re uncertain whether something is an opioid, don’t hesitate to ask. If you are prescribed an opioid, here are a few points to discuss:
Do you actually have pain? Your provider might be assuming you’re in pain or simply prescribing a medication out of habit based on the condition they believe you have. If pain is not a concern for you, it’s worth asking if the prescription is truly necessary.
Is your pain acute and temporary? Chronic pain is often better managed with other medications or even non-medical treatments like massage. It’s important to ask why this particular drug was chosen and whether other options might be more suitable for your situation.
Is the prescription only for a few days? Long-term prescriptions are becoming less common, and that’s a positive shift. Usually, a few days’ worth of pain medication is sufficient for acute pain. If you or your doctor feel you may need more, be sure to discuss whether it’s appropriate and when it will be re-evaluated.
While an opioid might be the right choice for your condition, even if it’s not a textbook case, it’s always okay—and even essential—to ask your provider what medications you’re taking and whether there are safer alternatives with fewer risks and more benefits.
