Side Effects of Long-Term Opioid Use
Opioids are powerful tools for controlling short-term pain, but using them for a long time can be dangerous because long-term use can cause serious side effects. At LA Pain Doctor, we help patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA understand these risks and explore safer ways to manage chronic pain.
Request an AppointmentCommon Long-Term Side Effects
- Constipation: One of the most common and persistent side effects. Learn more about opioid-induced constipation.
- Tolerance: Over time, you may need higher doses to get the same relief.
- Physical dependence: Your body adapts and can go through withdrawal if the medication is stopped suddenly.
- Increased pain sensitivity: Some people develop opioid-induced hyperalgesia, where pain actually becomes worse.
- Drowsiness and slowed thinking: These can affect work, driving, and safety.
- Mood changes: Long-term use is linked to depression and anxiety. Read about opioids and depression.
Effects on Other Body Systems
- Hormones: Opioids can lower testosterone and estrogen levels, affecting energy, sex drive, and fertility.
- Bones: Long-term use may weaken bones and increase fracture risk, especially when combined with falls from dizziness.
- Breathing: Opioids can slow breathing, especially during sleep and when combined with alcohol or sedatives.
- Immune system: Some research suggests long-term use may affect immune function.
Risk of Misuse and Overdose
Long-term use increases the risk of misuse, addiction, and overdose. Learn the signs in our guides on opioid misuse and how opioid abuse affects personality, and follow our tips for using opioids safely.
What You Can Do
If you have taken opioids for a long time, talk to your provider about your goals, side effects, and options. A gradual taper may be recommended. LA Pain Doctor offers non-opioid treatments that target the source of pain, including lumbar epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, medial branch blocks, cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy, and spinal cord stimulator implants. Intrathecal pump therapy uses a fraction of an oral dose. Visit our pain medication management page to learn more.
Long-Term Opioid Side Effects FAQs
What is the most common long-term side effect of opioids?
Constipation is one of the most common and persistent side effects of long-term opioid use.
Can opioids make pain worse?
Yes. Some people develop opioid-induced hyperalgesia, which increases sensitivity to pain.
Do opioids affect hormones?
Long-term opioid use can lower sex hormones, affecting energy, mood, sex drive, and fertility.
Can long-term opioid use affect my bones?
Yes. It may contribute to weaker bones and a higher risk of fractures.
How can I lower my risks?
Use the lowest effective dose, follow your provider’s instructions, avoid alcohol and sedatives, and explore non-opioid treatments.
Should I stop taking opioids?
Never stop suddenly. Talk to your provider about whether a gradual taper is right for you.
Can LA Pain Doctor help me reduce opioid use?
Yes. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to discuss options at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA.
Explore Safer Long-Term Pain Relief
Our team can help you reduce reliance on opioids. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.