Make the most informed decision with your doctor

• Work with your doctor – create a plan on how to manage your pain to make sure you are getting the safest, most effective pain management possible.
• Discuss possible ways to manage your pain without opioids.
• If it is determined that opioids are the best course of action, talk to your doctor about any and all side effects and concerns.
• Carefully read the labels of all over-the-counter and prescription medicines you take and pay attention to any warnings on the labels.
• Never take opioids in greater amounts or more often than prescribed.
• Never sell or share prescription opioids. It’s illegal and dangerous.
• Store prescription opioids in a secure place, out of reach of others (including children, family, friends, and visitors). See Up and Away.
• Keep an up-to-date medication list and review all of the medications you are taking with your doctor at each visit. Be sure a family member, caregiver or close friend has a copy of the list.
• Opioids and alcohol DO NOT ever mix.