3.1 million Australians are prescribed opioids on a yearly basis, and 1 in 5 Australians aged over 45 years old will be prescribed an opioid in a calendar year.
1 in 10 people become dependent on opioid medications after misusing them, with the first signs of dependence beginning within 5 days of administration.
Prolonged use of opioids can result in physical side effects including sedation, respiratory depression, dry mouth, constipation and sexual dysfunction. It can impact on your general safety and personal well-being.
Do you think you are dependent on opioids? This questionnaire from ReachForTheFacts.com.au is a good starting point to show if you have any dependence on opioids.
Have any more questions? A referral to PainMedSA with one of our specialists can help you on the road to rotating off of opioid medications. Contact us at 08 8340 7733 for more information.