Opioid Use: Strategies to Prevent Addiction

Opioids are a class of drugs that include both legal prescription medications and illegal substances. They are primarily used for pain management. The danger of opioid use is the risk of addiction after prolonged or continued use. In fact, opioid use and addiction are significant public health concerns, resulting in an increased incidence of blood-borne infections, including hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C.

We are a pharmacy in Ontario, and here are some harm reduction strategies to reduce the risk or prevent addiction to opioids:

• Education and Awareness

  Opioids are strong pain management medication. Education and awareness about the risks and potential consequences can help patients take the necessary steps to take this medication as safely as possible. Pharmacists can provide essential information on safe opioid use to reduce the risks of unwanted side effects and addiction.

• Strict Prescription Guidelines and Compliance

  Opioids are prescription medications. Patients should always follow the instructions on their prescriptions faithfully to prevent the development of opioid addiction and other unwanted side effects. In the event of addiction, our pharmaceutical services in St. Catharines, Ontario, include Methadone and Suboxone maintenance treatment to treat opioid dependence.

• Screening and Assessment

  Routine screening and assessment of substance use disorders for patients prescribed opioids can help reduce the risk of addiction or identify potential risk factors. Through screening and assessment, care professionals can recommend an alternate route for pain management, reducing the risk of unwanted side effects or addiction.

For more information about opioid use or our pharmaceutical services, feel free to contact Queen’s Pharmacy at 905-688-6363. Our pharmacy provides a wide range of services and medical supplies in Ontario.