Schedule for reducing the dose of my opioid medication

Choose the opioid drug you take

DO NOT REDUCE YOUR DOSE WITHOUT YOUR DOCTOR’S OR PHARMACIST’S SUPERVISION.

See your doctor or pharmacist to develop a personalized plan that’s right for you.

How will my doctor or pharmacist reduce my opioids?

Everyone is on a different dose of opioids. Gradually reducing your dose of opioids requires an individualized plan. You doctor or pharmacist will reduce the dose by 10%-20% every 1-4 weeks, with the last third of the program taking longest.

If I gradually decrease the dose of my opioid, will my pain get worse?

No. In fact, pain, function and quality of life often improve when opioids are stopped. This is because over time, opioids can become less effective, with increasing doses only increasing side-effects. When you need an opioid medication, take the lowest dose for as short a time as possible, and then gradually reduce your dose until you stop. Once side-effects of opioids lessen, people often find they feel better.

CAUTION

Your tolerance to opioids will reduce as you cut down your dose. This means YOU ARE AT RISK OF OVERDOSING IF YOU QUICKLY GO BACK TO HIGH DOSES OF OPIOIDS. Always take opioids as prescribed.

WITHDRAWAL SIDE EFFECTS

When reducing the dose of an opioid too quickly, some people may experience withdrawal reactions (e.g. insomnia, anxiety, nausea). Various strategies and treatments are available to manage withdrawal side effects. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to prevent severe withdrawal symptoms.

WARNING

DO NOT CUT SLOW-RELEASE TABLETS IN HALF. Cutting pills in half destroys the slow-release coating on the pill. You may receive a higher dose and risk overdosing.

Visit the Canadian Deprescribing Network website for more information deprescribingnetwork.ca