Pain Control Support for People With Cancer by National Institute of Cancer. - HTML preview

Starting a new pain medicine

Some pain medicines can make you feel sleepy when you first take them. This usually goes away within a few days. Also, some people get dizzy or feel confused. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms persist. Changing your dose or the type of medicine can usually solve the problem.

What to watch out for when taking pain medicine

All drugs must be taken carefully. Here are a few things to remember when you are taking opioids:

• Take your medicines as directed. Also, don’t split, chew, or crush them, unless suggested by your doctor.
• Doctors will adjust the pain medicine dose so that you get the right amount for your body. That’s why it’s important that only one doctor prescribes your opioids. Make sure that you bring your list of medicines to each visit. That way, your health care team is aware of your pain control plan.
• Combining pain medicine with alcohol or tranquilizers can be dangerous. You could have trouble breathing or feel confused, anxious, or dizzy.

Tell your doctor how much and how often you:

• Drink alcohol
• Take tranquilizers, sleeping pills, or antidepressants
• Take any other medicines that make you sleepy