Whether you’re recovering from a painful surgery, struggling with chronic issues, or just have a bit of a headache, there are many reasons you may be prescribed pain medication or purchase some over-the-counter remedies. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks at hand when you’re taking a new drug. As it turns out, many medications and supplements can result in dangerous consequences if you aren’t careful—especially when it comes to those used to treat pain.
To discover some of the riskiest options out there, we spoke to board-certified pain management doctor Sean Ormond and health expert Krutika Nanavati. They told us that opioids, NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and acetaminophen should be taken with caution. Learn more about the risks of these types of pain medications below.
1. Opioids
While opioids like morphine, codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and more can be prescribed by doctors to treat moderate to severe pain, Ormond warns that these are some of the most potentially dangerous pain medications out there.
"Opioids are very effective at managing pain, but they also have a high potential for addiction and overdose," he says. "Long-term use can lead to tolerance (needing more of the drug to achieve the same effect), physical dependence, and withdrawal symptoms upon stopping." Tolerance dependence are not uncommon in many types of medication, including certain sleep meds.
To avoid these effects, it's essential to take opioids only exactly as they are prescribed to you; you should never take extra doses, and you should be sure to check the instructions before every use.
2. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):
Here's one you probably have in your medicine cabinet right now. Although over-the-counter NSAIDs like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are extremely common, it's important to exercise caution with these medications, as they can lead to harmful effects.
"While generally safe for short-term use, long-term use or use in high doses can lead to stomach ulcers, kidney problems, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke," Ormond tells us.
To take these painkillers safely, it's best to have them with a glass of water or a bit of food, avoid drinking alcohol, and only continue to take them for a short amount of time (no more than 10 days).
3. Corticosteroids
When it comes to reducing inflammation to treat pain, doctors will frequently prescribe corticosteroids (a.k.a. steroids). These are man-made hormones that resemble cortisol, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands. Varieties include prednisone and methylprednisolone. Unfortunately, while they may be good for relieving pain with short-term use, they can cause serious damage to your health if abused.
"Long-term use can have many side effects, including osteoporosis, weight gain, diabetes, and an increased risk of infection," Ormond says.
Like many other medications, experts recommend taking corticosteroids with food, avoiding alcohol, and only taking them as prescribed in order to reduce your risk of these issues.
4. Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is an analgesic that's commonly used to reduce fever and treat minor aches and pains. However, while generally safe for consumption within recommended doses, Nanavati warns that it could take a toll on your liver if you're not careful.
"Acetaminophen, while commonly used, can cause severe liver damage when taken in high doses," she warns. "The risk is especially high for those who consume alcohol regularly, as it can exacerbate the effects."
As with any other medication, she urges people to always read the label carefully and educate yourself on any possible interactions with other supplements, medications, and substances.
The bottom line
Ultimately, while pain medications can offer some much-needed relief, it's crucial to approach them with caution due to the potential dangers they may pose. It's always important to consult healthcare professionals, follow prescribed dosages, and explore alternative pain management strategies when possible. By making informed decisions, we can prioritize our safety and well-being while effectively addressing our pain.
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