Concerns about pain killer addiction has been raised recently in the light of cases of reported drug dependency on what were supposed to be non-addictive medications. Public health articles and journals have been discussing the issue for quite some time now. Even government institutions are telling us to be careful when taking over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs because of their potential risk for abuse and dependence. Pain killer addiction has caused worry to a lot of individuals who need the help of pain killers in order to experience relief.

However, pain killer addiction should not hinder us from seeking relief. There are ways that we can do to avoid being addicted to medications, specially prescription drugs. Here are some tips that can prevent potential abuse and harmful dependence on pain killers:

Tell your doctors everything about your medical history and give him full details of your current symptoms so that your doctor can prescribe the right drug and dosage.
Before taking any OTC and prescription drugs, be sure that you know certain information about it like its possible side effects, adverse reactions to other food, beverage, and drugs, and how it might complicate other conditions that you might have. Be sure to ask your doctors about any withdrawal symptoms that may occur once you stop your medication.
When taking your prescription, do not alter anything in it such as its dosage, frequency, etc. Altering anything in your prescription may cause minor to serious problems and further discomfort. When you experience any side effect after taking your medication, inform your doctor so he can adjust your prescription to suit your system.
Never stop your medications without consulting your doctor. Most withdrawal symptoms occur when patients cut their medications abruptly.
Be aware of any changes that the drug may cause to your behaviors. Some people get addicted to a certain drug without noticing it. If you suddenly have urges to take your medications just to feel better or to calm down, tell your doctor so he can help you prevent any risk of abuse and dependence.
Never take another person's prescription to treat your symptoms. People may react differently to the same drug. We all have different medical histories, systems, and even psychological wiring. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication.
Dispose any unused medications properly. Do not take them if you're already finished with your prescription. Mix them with other undesirable litter to prevent anyone from possibly taking them. Do not flush or dispose them in a way that they may contaminate water systems.
Help in educating others about potential risk of abuse and dependence in certain drugs. Do not share your medications to others who do not have any prescription for the same drugs. Be aware of the amount of pills contained in your medicine bottle to prevent anyone from taking it without your knowledge.

Doctors and pharmacists alike are trying their best to provide patients with the necessary relief from their conditions. Patients must share with this responsibility in order to protect themselves from being addicted to any medication. They must also help others in knowing and preventing the risks of abuse and dependence in their drugs.