Prescription opioids are a type of medicine often given to relieve pain. They include oxycodone (OxyContin®, Percocet®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®, Lortab®), codeine, morphine, and fentanyl.
These drugs can sometimes reduce pain, but they also have risks and side effects. The risks increase with longer use and higher doses. Anyone who takes prescription opioids can become addicted to them.
Prescription drug misuse means taking a medicine in a way or dose that has not been prescribed. This includes taking someone else’s prescription or taking a medicine to feel “high.”
You can help protect your family, friends, and community from the dangers of prescription opioid misuse.
