Treating pain: When is an opioid the right choice?

Opioid medications, commonly called narcotics, are derived from the poppy plant. Some opioids are available as prescription medications, regulated as controlled substances by the Drug Enforcement Administration. A doctor must have a special license in order to prescribe these. Other opioids, such as heroin, are illegal under all circumstances and have no legitimate medical purpose.

Long-term use of opioids can lead to physical tolerance, misuse, addiction and unintentional overdose. In recent years, prescription and use of opioid medications has steadily increased. These drugs are currently responsible for the majority of prescription drug-related overdose deaths in the United States.

Still, despite the steep risks associated with opioid misuse — the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention calls the problem an epidemic — these medications remain an important option for their original purpose: managing pain. In certain situations and, generally, for short periods of time, opioids can offer safe and powerful pain relief.