How To Prevent Illicit Drug Use

Preventing opiate abuse involves several strategies, including:

Educating yourself and your loved ones about the dangers of opiates and how they can be abused.

Using prescription opioids only as directed by your doctor and not sharing them with others.

Properly disposing of unused or expired medications.

Seeking alternative pain management strategies, such as physical therapy, acupuncture, or non-opioid medications.

Monitoring the use of prescription opioids by loved ones who have been prescribed them.

Seeking help for a substance use disorder if you or someone you know is struggling with opiate abuse.

Supporting policies and programs that aim to reduce the availability and accessibility of opioids.