Addiction: Not a Predictable Result of Opioid Prescribing

Millions of People at Risk

Millions of people worldwide are addicted to or at risk of becoming dependent on prescription opioid painkillers. Despite common misconceptions, addiction is not a predictable result of opioid prescribing.

Only a Small Minority Develop Addiction

In fact, only a small percentage of people who take opioids for pain relief develop an addiction. According to the World Health Organization, addiction occurs in only an estimated 10% of patients who are prescribed opioids for chronic pain.

The Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study estimated that in 2017, 405 million people were dependent on opioids worldwide. Of those, 95% were estimated to have prescription pain killer use disorder.

These substances bind to opioid receptors in the brain, producing pain relief and euphoria. However, prolonged use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms if discontinued.