Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center in Burien
How to Prevent Addiction to Prescribed Painkillers. Most people who take their pain medicine as directed by their doctor do not become addicted, even if they take the medicine for a long time. Fears about addiction should not prevent you from using narcotics to relieve your pain. But if you’ve abused drugs or alcohol in the past or have family members who have, you may be at a higher risk.
To avoid pain medicine addiction: Take the drug exactly as your doctor prescribes. Tell your doctor about any personal or family history of drug abuse or addiction; this will help them prescribe the medicines that will work best for you.
Remember, it’s common for people to develop a tolerance to pain medication and to need higher doses to get the same level of pain relief. This is normal and is not a sign of addiction. With addiction, you may need to use higher doses, but it’s not for pain relief. Still, talk to your doctor if this effect becomes troubling.
Don't Wait; Get Help Now. If your drug use is out of control or causing problems, talk to your doctor. Getting better from drug addiction can take time. There’s no cure, but treatment can help you stop using drugs and stay drug-free. Your treatment may include counseling, medicine, or both. Talk to your doctor to figure out the best plan for you.