Anita: Thank you for this important question and I understand your concern. Opioids are a class of drugs prescribed by providers to help patients manage pain. While opioids are commonly prescribed for short-term use, they can have serious effects if taken long-term, and your doctor is likely concerned about their impact. When taking opioids, your body may build up a tolerance to the medication that can lead to an increased dosage over time. While they can be beneficial when taken properly, one of the largest risks in taking opioids is that they can be highly addictive and easily misused. Other potential side effects of opioid use include:
• Depression and other mental health issues
• Abdominal pain and constipation
• Weak bones
• Increased risk of heart attack
• Irregular heartbeat
It’s important to share your concerns with your healthcare provider, and they can work with you to start lowering your dosage and find new medication. The good news is that there are a variety of opioid alternatives available, covered by your Part D plan, that will still help manage your chronic pain. These can include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and other NSAIDs that are available by prescription or over-the-counter.
There also may be non-medication options that can help you combat back pain like chiropractic or spinal manipulation and acupuncture. Your healthcare plan may provide an over- the-counter allowance that can go toward opioid alternatives. To learn more about what options are available to you, call the number on the back of your member ID card.