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The impact of opioid misuse in San Diego County has been significant. In 2016, there were 253 opioid-related deaths in the county. The year before that there were 353 opioid-related visits

to medical emergency rooms countywide.

If your doctor or dentist prescribes a pain reliever, take charge of your health and find out exactly what you are getting. UnitedHealth Group medical experts recommend you ask your doctor

these questions about any opioid prescription. Common opioid brand names include Vicodin and Percocet.

Opioids are not the only option for treating pain. Other options are available. An over-the-counter pain reliever (such as Tylenol, Aleve or Advil) may be enough, or physical therapy or

chiropractic care could give the same results.

Extended opioid use can increase the risk of dependence and addiction. Talk with your doctor about a how long you should take the medicine and whether it should be refilled.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has published specific guidelines, directing doctors to prescribe the lowest dose for the shortest length of time possible.

Some people may be more prone to addiction than others. A report published by the CDC suggests that the risk of chronic opioid use rises with each additional day after the third day, with a

steep rise after the fifth day.

Opioids can be deadly when mixed with other drugs, especially those taken for treatment of anxiety, sleeping disorders and seizures. It’s a bad idea to mix alcohol with an opioid pain

reliever or muscle relaxants.

These vary. They might include feeling sick to your stomach, sleepiness, extreme excitement, itching and more. Talk with your doctor.

Dr. Sam Ho is the chief medical officer of UnitedHealthcare. For additional information and resources, visit uhcOpioids.com.

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