Using Opioids Safely
Opioids are powerful drugs that can control severe pain, but they can be dangerous or even life-threatening if used incorrectly. At LA Pain Doctor, we help patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA who take opioids follow safe practices to protect themselves and their families.
Request an AppointmentTake Your Medication Exactly as Prescribed
- Take only the dose your provider prescribed, at the times prescribed
- Never take extra doses or take doses closer together, even if pain is severe
- Do not crush, chew, or break extended-release pills unless directed
- Never use someone else’s medication or share yours
- Use one pharmacy so all of your prescriptions can be checked for interactions
Avoid Dangerous Combinations
Mixing opioids with certain substances can slow breathing to dangerous levels. Avoid alcohol completely. Tell your provider about every medication and supplement you take, especially sleep aids, anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines, muscle relaxants, and other pain relievers.
Know the Warning Signs of Overdose
Call 911 right away if someone taking opioids has extreme sleepiness or cannot be awakened, slow or shallow breathing, pinpoint pupils, bluish lips or fingertips, or choking or gurgling sounds. Ask your provider whether you should keep naloxone, an overdose-reversal medication, at home.
Store and Dispose of Opioids Safely
- Keep medications in a locked cabinet or box, away from children, teens, guests, and pets
- Keep track of how many pills you have
- Dispose of unused medication at a pharmacy or drug take-back location
Stay in Close Contact With Your Provider
Attend all follow-up appointments, report side effects, and let your provider know if your pain changes or the medication stops working. Never stop suddenly without guidance; learn about tapering opioid use safely. Watch for side effects such as constipation and changes in mood, and read about side effects of long-term opioid use and opioid misuse.
Our team also offers non-opioid treatments like lumbar epidural steroid injections, medial branch blocks, and spinal cord stimulator implants. Visit our pain medication management page to learn more.
Using Opioids Safely FAQs
Can I take an extra dose if my pain is bad?
No. Never take more than prescribed. Call your provider if your pain is not controlled.
Is it safe to drink alcohol with opioids?
No. Alcohol and opioids together can dangerously slow your breathing.
What is naloxone?
Naloxone is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. Ask your provider if you should keep it at home.
How should I store my opioids?
Store them in a locked place out of reach of children, teens, visitors, and pets.
How do I get rid of unused opioids?
Take them to a pharmacy or drug take-back site for safe disposal.
Can I drive while taking opioids?
Opioids can affect alertness. Do not drive until you know how the medication affects you, and follow your provider’s guidance.
Who should I call with questions?
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 speak with our team about your medication.
Questions About Your Pain Medication?
We’re here to help you stay safe. 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.