Are there any risks associated with using opioids for back and neck pain?

 Yes, there are risks associated with using opioids for back and neck pain. A study published in The Lancet found that the opioid group had worse mental health scores and more reports of nausea, dizziness, and constipation than the placebo group

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. Additionally, prescribing opioids for low back and neck pain can cause harms ranging from common side effects such as nausea, constipation, and addiction to overdose-related mortality

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. Furthermore, the study found that those who received opioids had an elevated risk of misusing the drugs a year later, reinforcing the potential harms of turning to opioids for pain relief, even temporarily

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. Therefore, it is generally advised to consider other options for pain relief, such as over-the-counter medications, heat or ice application, physical therapy, acupuncture, acupressure, massage, or spinal manipulation

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. If opioids are prescribed, it is important to ask about the risks and benefits and to follow the doctor's instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective treatment

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