How easy is it to get addicted to pain pills?

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You did not state what kind of pain pills you are referring to, but apart from Tylenol (acetaminophen), Advil (ibuprofen), and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxin sodium, most pain pills are addictive to one degree or another, as most are synthetic opiates. These would include Percocet, Vicodin, Tylenol 3 and similar combinations, Oxycontin and all their generic equivalents, among others.

Pain medications should be taken only under the close supervision of a physician who understands addiction, and only for short periods without careful review of the need. Do not assume that your doctor understands addiction, even if she claims to be a pain specialist. I have had a doctor swear to me that Vicodin is not addictive (and yet it is acetaminophen and hydrocodone, one of the more addictive drugs around), and so-called pain specialists' patients are one of the prime sources of clients for detox units.

First answer by Zenballwizard. Last edit by Zenballwizard. Contributor trust: 40 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 1 [recommend question]