How to Lower Opiate Tolerance

Opiate tolerance causes reduced effectiveness and increased dependence to the prescribed medication.

Opiate tolerance is a phenomenon experienced by individuals using narcotics for pain control. Over time patients notice that the prescribed dosages of medication are no longer effective in controlling their pain. Left untreated opiate tolerance can lead to unnecessary suffering and possible addiction to the prescribed medication.

Things You'll Need

• List of current medications

Instructions

Self Evaluation

1. Check the instructions provided with your prescription. Be certain they match the instructions provided by your doctor. If there is any discrepancy between your doctor's instructions and your pharmacist's instructions contact your doctor immediately to verify how you should be taking the medication.

2. Consider how effective the medication has been in the past. Determine how effective the mediation is currently and make a note of the differences.

3. Review your daily routine. Make a note of any increase or changes in activity that may be affecting the level of pain you are experiencing.

See Your Doctor

1. Schedule an appointment with your doctor. If possible and practical, schedule an appointment with the doctor that prescribed the medication originally. If it isn't possible or practical to see the prescribing doctor, make an appointment with your general practitioner.

2. Bring your list of current medications including dosage amounts and frequency along to your appointment.

3. Talk to your doctor. Be prepared to tell him that your current medication is no longer effective. Explain to them any changes in your routine that may be contributing to your increased pain. Describe to your doctor the location and nature of the pain you are experiencing. They will need this information to determine whether your pain is caused by opiate tolerance or some other cause.

4. Ask your doctor specifically about the possibility of opiate tolerance. Doctors see dozens of patients each day; they cannot remember every detail of each patient. If you believe there is any possibility you are experiencing opiate tolerance tell your doctor.

Tips & Warnings

• Never increase the prescribed dosage or frequency of any pain medication without first consulting your doctor.

References

• WebMD: Pain Relief & Breakthrough Pain

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish