So if you’re not in pain, can you skip a dose?
If you’re in constant pain, can you take more or take it more often?
The short answer isno, not without approval from your healthcare provider.
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With narcotics, there’s the added risk of addiction.
Simple acts like walking regularly can help you get better faster, and well-managed pain is important for that.
Pay close attention to instructions regarding whether to take painkillers with food or on an empty stomach.
These directions are there to protect you from side effects and ensure your body can use the drug effectively.
Your healthcare provider or pharmacist should be able to answer any questions you have.
Read the packaging information, and if you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
*Non-drug therapies may include:
**Short-term use of narcotics is considered just a few days.
If you have severe pain or increasing pain four or more days after surgery, call your surgeon.
OTC pain relievers include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen.
NSAIDs
OTC NSAIDs help alleviate pain by lowering your levels of inflammation.
They should not be combined with other NSAIDs (either prescription or OTC).
OTC anti-inflammatories include:
Your healthcare provider may recommend OTC NSAIDs along with acetaminophen or narcotics.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen relieves pain but not inflammation.
Acetaminophen is easier on the stomach than most other pain relievers.
Acetaminophen Warning
High doses of acetaminophen can betoxic to your liver.
Most prescription NSAIDs are available in multiple strengths.
Do not exceed the amount your practitioner prescribes.
Prescription NSAID dosages are based on the condition and bang out of pain the medication is intended to treat.
The dosages listed above are ranges, not suggestions.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when taking these medications.
Their primary purpose is to treatcancer painand acute pain, but they’re also used extensively to treatchronic pain.
As an epidemic of abuse and overdoses has swept the United States, opioid use has become increasingly controversial.
Many people have concerns about taking these drugs, especially for the long term.
Federal law limits access to these drugs, as well.
That makes it extremely important to follow your healthcare provider’s dosage instructions.
The amount needed and tolerated is highly personal and depends on a multitude of variables.
Some narcotics, and especially combination or extended-release products, do have established daily maximums.
When an opioid overdose is suspected, naloxone hydrochloride should be administered as soon as possible.
Naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray is currently available over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription under different brand names.
The OTC options are Narcan (4 mg/spray) and ReVive (3 mg/spray).
It is very important to take narcotic painkillers under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Do not depend on the information below to determine the correct dose for your condition.
Individual patient needs can vary considerably; always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I wean myself off of opioid painkillers?
Work with your healthcare provider.
Can I take Tylenol and Advil together?
Also, never exceed the recommended dose for each medication.
A Word From Verywell
It’s always easier to prevent pain than to treat it.
They know all of the variables that need to be considered when deciding on your pain-management regimen.
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