9781422279632

Introduction to Chronic Pain 11

How Does Addiction to Pain Medication Happen?

People who take prescription painkillers for an extensive peri- od of time develop a tolerance for the drug, meaning they need to take more in order to feel its effects. These people become physically dependent on the painkiller, and experience painful withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop taking it. Physical dependence can be resolved by slowly tapering, or weaning, off the drug. However, addiction—which is caused by taking too much of the drug—is not so easily managed. Once addicted, painkiller users have uncontrollable cravings that makes it extremely hard for them to stop using, despite the harmful con- sequences—which includes compulsive drug-seeking behavior and the inability to meet work, family and financial obliga- tions. Note that most people who become addicted to painkillers were prescribed the medication to help treat their chronic pain.

Who Becomes Addicted to Pain Medication?

Addiction is not limited by age, socioeconomic class, race, eth- nicity, or profession. Even celebrities can find themselves addicted to pain medication. The following are examples of a few of the many celebrities who have struggled with painkiller addiction.

Steven Tyler: Lead singer of the rock band Aerosmith and one of the judges of the television show “American Idol,” Steven