Pain medication is typically given to patients after an auto accident, surgery, or another type of serious physical trauma. While these medications are helpful and safe when taken as prescribed, they can be dangerous if they fall into the wrong hands. Follow the suggestions in this guide to ensure your pain medication is used, stored, and disposed of properly.

Following Prescription Directions

Some pain medications have the potential to become addictive, which is why it’s essential to take them exactly as they are prescribed. Opioids such as oxycodone and codeine, for example, are often used to treat moderate to severe pain after an auto accident. But if taken too frequently, these drugs can become less effective as the body builds up a tolerance to them. If you feel you need more medication to effectively treat your pain, always speak with your doctor about adjusting your prescription.

Storing Medication

As a prescription holder, it’s your responsibility to store pain medication properly to ensure it isn’t misused. Always keep your medication in a place that’s out of reach of children and pets. If you have a prescription for a controlled substance such as morphine or fentanyl, keep it in a locked cabinet or drawer. 

It’s also important to go through your medicine cabinet a few months after your auto accident to dispose of any old prescriptions. Taking expired medication is neither safe nor effective.

Disposing of Medication

Review the label on your medication to see if there are any advised disposal methods. Because some pain medications have the potential for abuse, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends mixing them with items like kitty litter, coffee grounds, or dirt to discourage theft. 

Put the mixture in a sealed plastic bag and throw it out in your household trash. Dispose of the empty medication bottle separately, making sure to scratch out all the personal information on the prescription label.

Some medications may recommend flushing them down the toilet if they have a high risk of abuse, but only do this if specially instructed. You can also search for a pharmacy in your area that participates in a “take back” program for unused medications.

If you’re in pain after an auto accident or other serious injury, get in touch with Accident Doctors. These compassionate professionals provide safe and effective pain management solutions to patients throughout the Mesa, Phoenix, & Gilbert, AZ, areas. Visit their website to learn more about their treatment options and call (602) 632-0000 to schedule an appointment today.