Tapering Opioid Use Safely

When it’s time to stop taking opioid medication, you need to do it safely. If you used opioids only briefly, your provider may say it’s fine to stop. But after longer use, your provider will likely recommend stopping gradually so your body can adjust. LA Pain Doctor guides patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA through safe, supported opioid tapers.

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Why Tapering Matters

With regular use, the body adapts to opioids. This is called physical dependence, and it can happen even when medication is taken exactly as prescribed. If opioids are stopped suddenly, the body may react with withdrawal symptoms. Tapering means slowly lowering your dose over time, which reduces withdrawal and makes the process more comfortable and safe.

Reasons to Taper

  • Your pain has improved or the original cause has healed
  • The medication is no longer controlling your pain well
  • You are experiencing side effects such as constipation, drowsiness, or mood changes
  • The risks of continued use outweigh the benefits
  • You have started other treatments that reduce your need for opioids

What to Expect During a Taper

Your provider will create a personalized schedule, often reducing your dose by a small amount every week or few weeks. The pace depends on how long you have taken opioids, your dose, and how you feel. Tapers can be slowed or paused if symptoms become difficult.

Possible withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, restlessness, trouble sleeping, sweating, runny nose, muscle aches, stomach upset, and temporary increases in pain. These are usually manageable and improve with time.

Tips for a Successful Taper

  • Follow your schedule exactly and never adjust doses on your own
  • Stay active with gentle exercise; see our guide to exercising with chronic pain
  • Prioritize sleep, hydration, and healthy meals
  • Lean on family, friends, or a counselor for support
  • Keep in close contact with your provider and report any concerns

Managing Pain During and After Tapering

Non-opioid treatments can help control pain while you taper. Options include lumbar epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy, trigger point injections, and spinal cord stimulator implants. Learn more about using opioids safely and our pain medication management program.

Tapering Opioid Use FAQs

Why can’t I just stop taking opioids?

After regular use, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. Tapering lets your body adjust gradually.

How long does an opioid taper take?

It varies from a few weeks to several months depending on your dose, how long you have taken opioids, and how you feel.

What are symptoms of opioid withdrawal?

Symptoms may include anxiety, sweating, trouble sleeping, muscle aches, stomach upset, and temporary increases in pain.

Will my pain get worse when I taper?

Some patients notice a temporary increase in pain, but many feel the same or better once the taper is complete.

Can my taper be slowed down?

Yes. Your provider can slow or pause your taper if symptoms become difficult.

What can help with pain during a taper?

Injections, nerve treatments, exercise, and other non-opioid options can help manage pain.

How do I start a taper plan?

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 a safe taper at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA.

Get Support as You Taper

Our team will guide you every step of the way. 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.

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