Get Informed:
Pain Management

Will I become addicted to my pain medication?

People in pain take prescription pain medication to relieve their pain, not to "enjoy" the effects of potent drugs. Fear of addiction, in most cases, should not affect a physician's decision to offer pain medication since it is rare that people in pain become addicted. More specifically, any physical dependence that may occur by taking certain medications routinely does not mean that a person becomes psychologically addicted to that medication. Should physical dependence occur, a gradual reduction of medication over a period of time would alleviate unpleasant side effects that a sudden cessation might cause. Talk to your doctor if you are at all concerned about this.

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More in this section:

• What can I expect when it comes to having my pain managed?
• What can I do to help manage my pain?
• What should I ask my doctor?
• Will I become addicted to my pain medication?
• What can be done to manage the side effects of pain medication?

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