How common is addiction to painkillers prescribed for pain?
The prevalence of drug abuse and addiction in patients prescribed narcotic medications for pain is not conclusively known. However, most research indicates addiction rates are similar to those in the general population. Other research shows a somewhat greater incidence of drug abuse among pain patients. The screening of patients for certain risk factors such as a history of substance abuse appears useful in predicting whether or not a patient is likely to abuse. Patients with histories of substance abuse deserve treatment for pain but must be carefully monitored to ensure compliance with treatment. It is also important to understand the differences between frequently confused terms such as drug abuse (intentional misuse), addiction, tolerance and physical dependence. A person who is physically dependent on a drug, for example, may experience symptoms of withdrawal if the drug is suddenly stopped. Such symptoms do not, in themselves, indicate addictive disease. Similarly, a person who a
