One stumbling point for people in recovery is when they are prescribed legal prescription drugs as treatment or following a procedure. Several past clients have said, my doctor wanted to give me oxycodone, but I won’t take anything stronger than Ibuprophen to manage the pain. Others, sadly, have returned to treatment stating that things were going well until a medical procedure derailed their recovery because they were prescribed pain medications.

There are several messages here.

1 – While many people like to keep their information private, it is imperative that your medical professionals – doctors and dentists – are aware that you are in recovery and taking any sort of opiate or narcotic based medication would be detrimental to your recovery. Even if you receive a prescription, especially for a pain killer, from your doctor, confirm the chemical compound of the medication.

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2 – Regardless if you were addicted to alcohol, heroin, prescription drugs, meth amphetamines or any other substance, just because medication comes from your doctor, it does not mean it is safe to take it. If you are in recovery, these powerful substances can quickly sidetrack you from working the program.

3 – What happens if you are given this medication without consent? For example, if you are unconscious, taken to the ER via ambulance and have no one present who can speak to the doctors on your behalf and one of these prescription pain killers is administered without your knowledge, what are the steps to take next? As soon as you are awake and alert, you need to communicate with the medical staff that you are in recovery and should not receive opiate or narcotic painkillers. Verify what was given to you while unconscious. Chances are, a single dosage will not cause a full blown relapse, but be sure to voice your concerns to your family and support network so they can help you remain vigilant about maintaining your sobriety, especially if you are experiencing cravings to use.

If you or a loved one is abusing drugs or alcohol, contact Pathways to learn more about our detox and residential treatment programs. Call 855-349-5988 for more information.