Opioids, also known as opiates, are a type of medication given for moderate to severe pain and are used when other pain medications have not worked. They are classified into weak opioids (which include codeine and dihydrocodeine) and strong opioids (such as morphine, diamorphine, fentanyl, and tramadol). They can be taken in different ways, including tablets, liquids, and skin patches.

They are usually less effective for chronic pain apart from with cancer pain. This is in part because they become less effective over time. Therefore, they are recommended for use alongside the other types of chronic pain medication when your pain is acutely increased. If you find that you are having to use your opioids more often, or if you are still in pain despite using them, please speak to your GP as soon as possible.

At Bangholm Medical Centre, we like to review everyone on strong opiates after 8 weeks of starting the medicine and, if it is still required, at 6-monthly intervals thereafter.

It is important not to exceed dosing instructions. Some people worry that they will become addicted to opioids – this is rare when it is used correctly to manage pain.

If you do wish to reduce your dose, it is best to do so gradually under your doctor’s supervision. This is because stopping suddenly can lead to physical withdrawal, which can lead to effects such as feeling increased pain, being generally unwell, or having diarrhoea.

Please click on the image opposite to submit a chronic pain medication review to your GP.

Whilst on opioids, you may experience some side effects. They usually take a few days to settle, but please speak to your GP if you are concerned about any of them. Common side effects include:

• Constipation: most people taking opiates will experience constipation, so we recommend taking regular laxatives. Other measures you can take include drinking plenty of fluids and ensuring you eat lots of fibre in your diet.
• Sickness: some people feel sick when they start opioids – often this settles within a week, but please speak to your GP if you do experience it. We can often manage it with additional medication or altering the prescription.
• Drowsiness: many people feel tired or find it harder to concentrate than usual when they first start taking strong opiates. This will often wear off. If you continue to feel ‘drugged’ and are often falling asleep, please discuss this with your GP.