What You Can Do to Prevent Opioid Misuse

Take and Store Opioids Properly

Never take opioids in greater amounts or more often than prescribed.
Never sell or share prescription opioids.
Store prescription opioids in a secure place, out of reach of others (including children, family, friends, and visitors).
If you have unused prescription opioids at the end of your treatment, find your nearest safe disposal location, local drug take back event, or use a drug deactivation system.
DO NOT take opioids with alcohol, illicit drugs and other depressant medications like Xanax, Valium, Soma, Ambien, etc.

Work with your doctor to create a plan on how to manage your pain – be an advocate for your own SAFE pain relief.

- Know your options and consider ways to manage your pain that do not include opioids.
- Talk to your doctor about any and all side effects and concerns. Try asking – “Would ibuprofen work instead?” “Are there any other options I can try?” “Can you prescribe only a few days’ worth?” or “What’s the least amount I can take?”
- Make the most informed decision with your doctor. Follow up regularly with your doctor.

Find Help & Treatment

If you or someone close to you needs help for a substance use disorder, talk to your doctor or call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or go to SAMHSA’s Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator.