Common Painkillers

Doctors often prescribe these addictive medications for moderate to severe pain.
OXYCONTIN: The strong narcotic pain reliever is similar to morphine and is designed to treat moderate to severe pain expected to last for a long time. It should be used on a regular schedule as prescribed by a doctor, not on an as-needed basis. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, mild itching, drowsiness, dry mouth, lightheadedness, loss of appetite and weakness.
DILAUDID: Also known as the generic equivalent hydromorphone, Dilaudid is a narcotic. Nausea, constipation, lack of appetite, changes in taste, blurred vision, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, flushing and sweating may occur.
VICODIN: This is a combination of hydrocodone, a narcotic, and non-narcotic acetaminophen. It can cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, flushing, vision changes and mental/mood changes.
PERCOCET: This is a combination of narcotic oxycodone and non-narcotic acetaminophen. Extended use can reduce the drug's effectiveness. It can cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, flushing, vision changes and mental/mood changes.
Source: WebMD.com

They Said It

''Am I an addict? Yes. All my medications are pretty much illegal. I get them any way I can.'' - KAMAL ALI SALAAM-EL, Formerly known as Reggie Harrison, who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers

''If you put down 50 [former players], I might know one who isn't on drugs.'' - CONRAD DOBLER, Former St. Louis Cardinals guard

''The Raiders just shot me up with drugs and pills and pushed me out on the field. And when I was done, they pushed me out the door.'' - DAVE PEAR, Former Bucs and Oakland Raiders defensive lineman

''There are guys in worse shape than I am, but you'll never know it. They're ashamed to come forward, or they just don't want people to see them this way.'' - WALLY CHAMBERS, Former Bucs defensive lineman

Resources

• Recognizing Addiction To Painkillers
• Forum: Dealing With Addiction
• Prescription Drug Information