Follow these smart steps to ensure you’re taking opioids safely
In recent years, opioids have become a commonly prescribed treatment for a variety of types of pain. They are quick-acting and easy to use. But, as you’re probably aware, opioids can be dangerous if they are not administered correctly.
If you or a loved one is currently taking opioids to manage pain, follow these steps to ensure this treatment is being used correctly and safely.
- Take medication as prescribed. Make sure to take your medicines regularly at the times prescribed (or as close as possible to those times) to get the maximum benefit from them. If you miss a dose, do not take double the amount next time, as this could lead to an overdose.
- Make sure the doctor knows about other medications taken. Tell the doctor who prescribed the opioid about all medications, including over-the-counter pills and supplements, you or your loved one is currently taking. This will reduce the risk of side effects.
- Don’t crush, chew, or break tablets. Opioids should be swallowed whole and not split into smaller pieces unless otherwise instructed by a doctor or pharmacist. This is because some painkillers are designed to slowly release medicine into the bloodstream, so crushing them could cause an overdose.
- Avoid alcohol. Combining alcoholwith opioids may cause sleepiness, confusion, and breathing issues.
- Store medications in a safe place. Keep opioids far away from children and pets.If possible, keep them locked in a cool, dry place that’s hard to find.
- Don’t share. Opioids are intended only for the person they are prescribed for, and no one else. Never give or share tablets with other people, as they may not be safe for others to take.
- Check the expiration date. If you’ve had a prescription of opioids for a while, check the expiration date.Medicines should not be taken after they have expired, as they may not be safe and their effects could be unpredictable.
- Safely dispose of any unused or expired tablets.If you have medicines that have passed their expiration date, there are several ways you can dispose of them safely. You can take them back to your pharmacist, and you can also contact the United States Drug Enforcement Administration to see what drug take-back programs they offer in your area,