Prescription opioids can be an effective form of pain management, but they are not always the only option. It is important to understand the potential benefits and risks before you begin taking medications.
Patient education
What to Ask Your Doctor Before Taking Opioids
Before you go to the doctor, review this checklist of questions about opioids and naloxone.
Know the Options: Rx Pain Medication Series
A series of 13 fact sheets to educate patients who are prescribed opioids for pain about the risks and to provide resources on methods for alternative pain management.
Nonopioid Therapies for Pain Management
There are many ways to manage pain safely and effectively. Some options may actually work better than opioids and have fewer risks and side effects.
Complementary and Integrative Approaches for Pain
Consumer information to help patients talk with health care providers about complementary and integrative health approaches for managing pain.
Clinician resources
Pain Management Best Practices Report
Developed by a broad group of representatives and stakeholders, this report identifies gaps, inconsistencies, and updates and provides recommendations for best practices for managing acute and chronic pain.
CDC Clinical Practice Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Pain
Recommendations for clinicians providing pain care, including those prescribing opioids, for adult patients.
Abuse-Deterrent Opioid Analgesics
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) encourages the development of opioids with abuse-deterrent properties, which make it harder to abuse these powerful medications.
Need help?
SAMHSA National Helpline
Get treatment referral and information about mental health and drug or alcohol use disorders, prevention, and recovery.
FindTreatment.gov
Millions of Americans have mental and substance use disorders. Find a comprehensive list of certified treatment programs across the United States.