Staying Safe When Taking Prescription Opioids

Authors

Aaron Hunt, Utah State UniversityFollow
Gabriela Murza, Utah State UniversityFollow
Amy May
Jenna Hawks, Utah State UniversityFollow
Alyssa Ferrin

Document Type

Factsheet

Publisher

Utah State University Extension

Publication Date

4-17-2025

First Page

1

Last Page

3

Abstract

Prescription opioids, such as oxycodone, morphine, codeine, and hydrocodone, are often used for short-term pain management, and it is important to know how to keep yourself safe when taking opioids prescribed by a doctor. This fact sheet reviews what opioids are, how they work in the body, and how people become dependent on or overdose on opioids. It also offers how to limit your risk of dependence and suggests alternative pain management options.

Recommended Citation

Hunt, A., Murza, G., May, A., Hawks, J., & Ferrin, A. (2025). Staying safe when taking prescription opioids [Fact sheet]. Utah State University Extension.