Using pain medication in a safe manner is of utmost importance. For, while these drugs are vary effective at controlling pain, pain medication is highly addictive if not taken properly. Always use prescription Pain medication exactly as the label on the prescription bottle indicates.
Do not take your medication at the pharmacy unless someone else is driving you immediately home. Some pain drugs work very quickly on an empty stomach.You may feel sleepy, dizzy, lightheaded or drowsy with the medication and should be safely at home when this occurs. Do not combine alcohol beverages with pain medication, this is dangerous and could lead to respiratory or cardiac distress.
While on the drug rate your pain on a scale of 1-10. If, after 30 minutes, your pain is higher than a “3,” call your doctor or pharmacist. Not every pain medication works the same on every individual. You may need a higher dose or another type of pain reliever. Take your medicine on schedule to keep the drug in your bloodstream for the best effect. Waiting until the pain is intolerable will only make you uncomfortable and is not necessary to use pain medication safely.
Pain medication can cause an upset stomach and constipation, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of fluids. If necessary, ask your pharmacist to recommend an over-the-counter laxative or stomach relief medication to relieve the symptoms. If three days pass without a bowel movement, contact your doctor right away.
Always tell your pharmacist about the herbal remedies, vitamins and over-the-counter drugs you take daily. These alternative medications, as well as certain foods and beverages, can interact dangerously with your pain medication. Remember, your pharmacist is a health professional dedicated to providing you with information and assistance you need while taking prescribed medications. Ask for a consultation when you receive your pain medication and request a written copy to take home.