Expect close follow-up during opioid treatment

Before prescribing an opioid to treat your pain, your doctor will get a detailed medical, family and social history and have you undergo a thorough physical examination. Results can help determine whether opioids are right for you. Your medical history will also help your doctor determine if you should be seen by a mental health provider or addiction specialist while you're using opioids, to reduce the risk of unsafe use. Patients with a prior history of any substance abuse are at significantly increased risk of developing addiction to these medications.

While taking opioids, your doctor will require frequent follow-up visits as well as periodic laboratory tests to monitor you for side effects and potential misuse.