Facts about Opioid Medications

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The basics

Facts-about-Opioid-MedicationsOpioids (oh-pee-oids) are also known as narcotics. They’re among the strongest and most effective pain relievers that your health care provider can prescribe. They are sometimes used to treat chronic pain (pain that lasts three months or more). Some examples of opioids

Opioids are often given as pills, but they also come in other forms:

  • Patches that stick to your skin
  • Lozenges that go in your mouth
  • Tabs that go under your tongue or on your gums
  • A “lollipop”-like form
  • Suppositories

No matter what form an opioid takes, when the decision is made to manage pain with opioids, responsibilities about their use and storage should be taken seriously. It might seem that if an opioid isn’t a pill, it’s not as dangerous—but that is not true.

Some opioids may last longer than others. “Short-acting” opioids may give relief that lasts up to 4 hours. “Longacting” (sustained– or extended–release) opioids may last 8 – 12 hours, or even longer.

People sometimes have different reactions to opioid pain medications. Your health care provider may try several different kinds of opioids before finding the one that works best for you.

Keep in mind

Common side effects of opioids include constipation, drowsiness, nausea and/or vomiting, a slight rash or itchiness, blurred vision, and problems urinating. Speak with your health care provider if you have any of these problems. Don’t wait!

Did you know?

It is your responsibility to keep your opioid prescription safe.

Learn More

Register now at www.painaction.com/actionstep

There, you’ll find helpful information about:

  • How to get the most fromyour medical care
  • Pain issues
  • Treatments
  • Communicating with yourhealth care provider