How to Stop Using Prescription Painkillers

Stopping prescription painkillers — especially opioids like oxycodone, hydrocodone, or morphine — is hard but absolutely possible. You’re already taking a brave step by asking. The key is doing it safely, with support, and with a plan.

⚠️ Why You Shouldn’t Quit Cold Turkey (Without Help)

Prescription painkillers can cause physical dependence, meaning your body adapts to them. Quitting suddenly can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Nausea, vomiting

• Muscle aches

• Insomnia

• Anxiety or depression

• Intense cravings

• Sweating, chills, restlessness

Safe withdrawal needs medical guidance, especially if you’ve been using for more than a couple weeks or in high doses.

✅ Here’s How to Stop — The Safe, Step-by-Step Way:

1. 👩‍⚕️ Talk to a Doctor or Addiction Specialist

They can:

• Help you taper slowly (reduce dosage over time) to avoid withdrawal

• Prescribe medications that ease symptoms and cravings, like:

  • Buprenorphine/Suboxone

  • Clonidine (for anxiety, agitation)

  • Anti-nausea or sleep meds

• Assess your physical and emotional needs

• Refer you to outpatient or inpatient treatment, if needed

If you don’t have a regular doctor, call SAMHSA’s free 24/7 helpline:📞 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – They’ll guide you to a local provider.

2. 🧠 Get Mental Health & Recovery Support

Painkiller addiction is both physical and emotional. You’ll need tools and support to replace the role painkillers have played in your life.

• Therapy – especially CBT or trauma-informed therapy

• Support groups:

  • NA (Narcotics Anonymous) – people who’ve been there

  • SMART Recovery – tools and techniques for self-management

• Peer support apps – like Sober Grid or WEconnect

3. 💪 Create a Recovery Plan You Can Stick With

Recovery is daily. Start simple:

Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Wake up same time	Go for a short walk	Reflect (journal or talk to someone)
Eat breakfast	Do 1 task (even if small)	Limit triggers (avoid stress, people who use)
Check in with support (text/call/meeting)	Stay hydrated, eat healthy	Relax with music, bath, mindfulness

4. 🔄 Expect Setbacks, Not Failure

If you slip, it’s not over — it’s part of the process for many people.

• Don’t hide it

• Tell someone

• Restart the plan

• Learn what triggered it (pain? stress? loneliness?)

You are always one choice away from getting back on track.

🧭 Want Help Finding Resources Near You?

I can help you:

• Find a local doctor, detox center, or MAT clinic

• Set up a tapering conversation script to talk to a doctor

• Build a 30-day recovery plan

• Connect to free support

Just let me know:

1. What country or city you're in (for local help)

2. What painkillers you’re using and how often (so I can be more specific)

You don’t have to do this alone — and you can feel like yourself again.

Our online suboxone clinic provides online suboxone appointments.