Written by Rebecca Budde, SIU School of Medicine
Physicians prescribed enough painkillers in 2010 to medicate every American adult every four hours for a month, according to estimates from the CDC.  The goal of the medication is to lessen the impact of pain, whether chronic or acute, in order to make daily activities more manageable.
While these medications offer the benefit of managing pain, physicians caution that they can also produce some unpleasant side effects. Internal medicine physician and hospitalist Dr. Zak Gurnsey says that the effectiveness and side effects of pain medication vary from person to person.
Possible side effects of pain medication:
1.  Dependence or addiction
2.  Restlessness
3.  Trouble sleeping
4.  Constipation
5.  Drowsiness
6.  Trouble concentrating
7.  Slowing of breathing
8.  Initial queasy feeling and/or vomiting
9.  Itching and/or rash
10. Chronic tiredness
11. Decreased sex drive
While some of these side effects subside over time, others may stick around or worsen. For those who feel drowsy from their pain medications, Dr. Gurnsey cautions that using alcohol, marijuana and street drugs can heighten the effect. Drowsiness can also lead to falls and accidents so it’s important that people refrain from driving when taking certain painkillers. If constipation is a concern, Dr. Gurnsey recommends drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, increasing fiber and increasing exercise.
To avoid the worsening of side effects, use pain medications safely:
1.  Always take the prescribed dose.
2.  Avoid alcohol and street drugs.
3.  Inform your doctor before taking new medications.
4.  Store your medication in a cool, dry place, away from pets and children.
5.  Do not let others use your medication.
6.  If you want to stop your medication or need an increased dose, discuss with your doctor first to avoid any side effects.
7.  Fill all prescriptions at the same pharmacy so that the pharmacist can check for possible interactions.
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