Opioid Safety Planner After Surgery

Usually only a few days, while pain is at its worst. Take the lowest dose that controls your pain and stop as soon as simpler painkillers (like paracetamol or ibuprofen, if your team says they're safe for you) are enough. Always follow the instructions on your leaflet and from your surgical team.

No. Alcohol and opioids both slow your breathing, and together the effect is much stronger and can be dangerous. Avoid alcohol completely while you're on opioid painkillers. Also avoid other sedating medicines (sleeping tablets, some anxiety medicines) unless your prescriber knows you're taking them.

Opioids slow the gut, so almost everyone gets constipated. Start prevention from day one: drink plenty of fluids, eat fibre, keep moving gently, and use a laxative if your team or pharmacist recommends one. Don't wait until you're already blocked up.

Signs of an overdose include being very drowsy or hard to wake, slow or shallow breathing, very small (pinpoint) pupils, and confusion. If someone can't be roused or their breathing is slow, call emergency services immediately. In some places naloxone (a rescue medicine) is available — ask your pharmacist.

Don't keep them 'just in case' and never share them with anyone — they're prescribed for you alone. Take unused tablets back to a pharmacy for safe disposal. While you have them, store them locked away and out of sight of children and visitors.