Lowering the Risk of Opioid Misuse

Opioids are helpful when taken the right way. When misused, they can lead to dependence. This can lead to overdose or even accidental death.

In 2023, about 76% of all overdose deaths involved opioids. Opioid misuse and related deaths have been considered a crisis. The problem was declared a “national public health emergency” in 2017. Since the alarm was sounded, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says opioid addiction, overdose and deaths in the U.S. are rising. Even seniors aren’t immune.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) is helping cut the risks with Medicare Part D prescription safety rules and alerts. They also support addiction treatment programs and opioid choices. Just as vital, the CMS is actively educating doctors and patients on the dangers of opioids.

What are Opioids?

Opioids are drugs that ease pain. Simply put, they cut the strength of pain signals reaching the brain to curb pain. Doctors prescribe them for injuries, dental work, and surgery.

Types of opioid painkillers include:

• Codeine
• Hydrocodone
• Morphine
• Oxycodone

Opioids should only be prescribed after other choices are considered. Physical therapy, exercise, acupuncture and massage or less addictive drugs may be less risky ways to handle pain.

How Do You Know if You Have a Problem?

There are several warning signs. You may have a problem if you

• Take more pain meds than prescribed
• Take these meds more often than told
• Crave your next dose, even if you don't really need it for pain
• Get pills from more than one doctor
• Have been taking the pills for a long time
• Sleep too much
• Experience bad mood swings

If you think you rely too much on opioids, talk with your doctor. It’s a common issue, so don't feel embarrassed. There is a complex link between you and your meds. You can find help. Acknowledging you may have a problem is the first step.

Sources: Understanding the Opioid Overdose Epidemic,  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2025; Combating the Opioid Epidemic,  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General, 2024; Ongoing Emergencies and Disasters: Opioid Crisis,  Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2024; CMS Roadmap: Strategy to Fight the Opioid Crisis,  Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2020; Why Our Brains are Wired for Addiction,  Stanford Medicine, 2025; Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction,  National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2020 

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Originally published 12/17/2018; Revised 2021, 2023, 2026