Long-term use of painkillers can lead to physical dependence. The body adapts to the presence of the substance and if one stops taking the drug abruptly, withdrawal symptoms occur. Or the body could build up a tolerance to the drug, meaning that higher doses have to be taken to achieve the same effects. Like all drugs, painkillers simply mask the pain for which they are taken. They don’t “cure” anything. Someone continuously trying to dull the pain may find himself taking higher and higher doses—only to discover that he cannot make it through the day without the drug. Symptoms of withdrawal can include restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, and cold flashes. Addiction means the patient has lost control over the use of the drug. They’re using it compulsively, there are consequences to using it too often, but they continue to use it anyway. If you are concerned that you may be addicted, or are unhappy with your current pain management solution, call us immediately. We offer non-narcotic therapeutic options.
