You can help prevent addiction to an opioid by closely monitoring your pain management techniques. We encourage you to discuss options with your doctor directly, and when possible:
Try to use alternative therapies like acupuncture and massage therapy for pain management. Blue Cross Blue Shield members should be sure to take advantage of our member discounts for these services!
Unused medications often get into the wrong hands—if you have unused opioid medicines, drop them at a dropbox in your community or with the local police or fire department. What can you do?
Bring your unused or expired prescription drugs to any of the secure drop-off boxes around the state. Find a location near you.
Don't flush medication down the drain unless the label or accompanying patient information instructs you to do so.
If you throw medication in the trash, remove the medicine from its container, crush the pills, and mix them with coffee grounds or kitty litter. Place the mixture in an unmarked container before throwing it away.