Prescriptions: How to watch for warning signs of abuse (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)

By Dr. W. MICHAEL HOOTEN Some estimates say that 10 percent to 40 percent of people with chronic pain misuse opioids -- pain medications such as hydrocodone (Vicodin, Lortab); morphine; oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet); hydromorphone (Dilaudid); meperidine (Demerol); and methadone. But there is a difference between medication misuse and addiction. Misuse is taking a pain medication for a purpose ...

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