Don’t take pain killers lightly
Opiod addiction is a common problem in South Africa.
AS Drug Awareness Week draws to an end tomorrow after running from Sunday, 24 June, it is vital for South Africans to understand the potential risks associated with using medication to combat pain. This according to the experts could lead to people needing professional help for addiction to opioids known commonly as prescription medication.
Dr Shaquir Salduker, board member of the Psychiatry Management Group, says that individuals suffering from chronic or long term pain are at increased risk of becoming dependent on pain medication, if they do not manage their pain symptoms correctly.
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According to Dr Salduker, opioid addiction is a common problem among many South Africans. “We have had to help individuals from all walks of life, from executives to housewives, through very difficult rehabilitation.”
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He adds that people who suffer from regular or prolonged pain are most at risk because they often make use of medicines containing opioids such as codeine.
“Individuals recovering from injuries or surgery are usually prescribed these types of pain medication. While these types of drugs are very effective for treating severe pain in the short-term, using them for extended periods can have a number of negative health implications.”
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