By Janelle RingerOriginal Source: news.llu.eduEach day, more than 1,000 Americans are treated in emergency departments for misusing prescription opioids, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While these prescriptions may be necessary in select cases, the dependence some patients may experience while on the drug can lead to serious addiction, risky behavior or potential overdose leading to death. Knowing the signs of opioid intoxication and withdrawal can help prevent abuse of the drug.Opioids are powerful pain-reliving narcotics prescribed by a doctor to manage pain. They are often prescribed following an injury or procedure. Statistics from the CDC show this class of powerful drugs is causing more overdoses now than in years prior.Katia S. Stoletniy, MD, medical director for the Substance Use and Recovery and Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center, says urging both patients and physicians to choose safer alternatives when working to manage pain can make an impact on lowering the number of overdoses. However, in cases when substitutes may not suffice, it’s crucial to be able to...click here to continue reading