24 Jan Opioids: Take Them as Directed
There’s no denying that opioids are a very effective pain management tool. They’re also highly addictive, which is why Integrated Pain Consultants only prescribes them in specific instances and for short-term use. Opioids are a narcotic and fantastic at relieving many types of pain. Opioids, such as morphine, were always designed to be used for short-term pain relief. For example, somebody recovering from an invasive surgery that needs strong, immediate pain management for a few days might be a good candidate for opioids.
However, in the past few years, something shifted in how opioids were used. People began to use them both recreationally and well beyond the recommended time of use. Opioids for chronic pain can be a dangerous, slippery slope towards addiction. When used long-term, opioids can lead to addiction and even to the use of illegal hard drugs like heroin (which shares many similarities with opioids).
Still, some patients are prescribed opioids for long-term pain relief. These patients are monitored and screened vigilantly—or at least they legally and ethically should be. Physical dependence on opioids can happen very quickly. As a popular recreational drug, opioids can also be somewhat easily procured on the street. Some patients who become addicted seek out numerous outlets to support their growing addiction.
Although opioids can be the best source of pain relief for some patients, they’re not for everyone. Most patients with chronic pain and anyone with a history of addiction should seek out alternative therapies. At Integrated Pain Consultants, there’s a variety of alternative, all-natural, safe approaches for pain management available. In some cases, these therapies are used in conjunction with short-term opioids, but only in some instances.
Medication Management and Opioid Use – Talk With Integrated Pain Consultants
If you’ve had someone recommend opioids to you, always seek out another opinion and ask about alternative therapies for pain relief. Opioid addiction has led to an epidemic in the US with thousands of reported overdoses each year. It’s a powerful drug that can be beneficial to some patients but should be used carefully and only as prescribed. To find out more about pain relief, including opioids, call the pain management experts at Integrated Pain Consultants today – 480-626-2552. We also invite you to learn more about Dr. Nikesh Seth and other providers including Dr. Anne-Marie Cosijns, Dr. Lisa Sparks, Dr. Michael Givens, and our team of Nurse Practitioners.