Know the Facts About Opioids

Prescription opioids—like hydrocodone, oxycodone, and morphine—can be prescribed by doctors to treat moderate to severe pain, but they can have serious risks and side effects.

• 41 people die every day—Every day in the United States, 41 people lose their lives to prescription opioid overdose.
• Anyone can become addicted—Opioids are highly addictive. Research shows that if you use opioids regularly, you may become dependent on them. That’s because opioids change how the brain and nervous system function. You can’t know how your brain will react to opioids before taking them.

Your doctor may talk to you about prescription opioids for pain treatment. Ask about the risks and benefits of taking opioids and about other, safer ways to manage pain. Tell your doctor any concerns you have, and work with them to decide what treatment plan will work best for you.