Doctors are getting away from treating chronic pain with opioids. Our spine experts weigh in on new guidelines for low back pain that favor non-drug options, like physical therapy, acupuncture and yoga, over pills.
Tag: opioids
Why More and More Babies Are Born Addicted to Prescription Drugs
Some babies are born addicted to heroin or other street drugs. But about one-third are born to middle-class women who have become addicted to prescription medications for chronic back pain, depression and other issues. Learn about neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) and how it’s managed.
Who Is the Surprising New Face of Heroin Addiction?
A recent study highlighting a dramatic shift in demographics in heroin addiction, shows that most users begin with prescription painkillers, then turn to heroin for a cheaper, more accessible high.
Anyone Can Get Addicted to Opioids: How to Lower Your Risk
You may think opioid addiction could never happen to you. But given the right circumstances, it can happen to almost everyone. Learn how certain factors increase your risk and how to ask your doctor for alternative medications.
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Drug, Alcohol Abuse Not a Character Flaw: Surgeon General’s Report (Video)
Abusing drugs or alcohol is an important health problem that needs an integrated, multi-focused medical approach and should not be treated as a moral failing or character flaw, says a new report released Thursday by the U.S. surgeon general’s office.
Opioids and Your Medications Can Be a Bad Mix
Opioids are potent painkillers. But they can interact badly with medications you may be using for anxiety, sleeplessness or muscle pain. Learn about safer alternatives.
Beyond Opioids: New Guidelines Offer Safest Ways to Control Pain
Pain killers are often over-prescribed and abused. Learn more about the CDC’s suggestions to help doctors prescribe opioids in the right amounts and under the right circumstances.
What Hidden Dangers Are Inside Your Medicine Cabinet?
When we take them at the right dosage and under a physician’s care, drugs offer many benefits. It’s also important to be aware of possible side effects. Below, find commonly used drugs and some caveats about their use. OTC pain meds, prescriptions and supplements Over-the-counter medicines, common prescriptions, and nutritional supplements can have serious effects … Read More
Opiates Kill More People Than Car Accidents (Video)
Opiates are the major cause of accidental deaths in the U.S. In fact, accidental overdoses from opiates kill more people than automobile and other motor vehicle accidents. These drugs include codeine, morphine and heroin. In this video, Dr. Gregory Collins, MD, Section Head of Cleveland Clinic’s Psychiatry and Psychology Department, talks about how easy it … Read More
FDA Approves a New Painkiller Designed to Thwart Abusers
The FDA approved a new chronic pain drug in July, the latest step in the FDA’s efforts to reduce the widespread abuse of extended-release/long-acting opioid painkillers. The drug, Targiniq ER, is for treating pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term treatment. It aims to treat patients who find other treatment options inadequate. Targiniq ER has properties that are … Read More