patient Resources

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider

These recommended questions can help start a conversation with your healthcare team about opioids and cancer pain management.

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A proposed list of questions for patients to ask their healthcare providers about opioids and cancer pain management, including sections on reasons for prescriptions, side effects, safe use, expectations for treatment, and duration of opioid use.

This list is not exhaustive — your situation is unique, and you may have more or different questions based on your health or treatment goals. You should always ask any question that helps you better understand your options and make informed decisions about your care.

Questions to ask

    • What are the risks and benefits?

    • What is the lowest effective dose?

    • How should I take this medication — when, how often, and how much?

    • How will I know it’s working well?

    • Are there non-opioid treatments that could help with my pain?

    • Will taking this medication affect my ability to drive or work?

    • Can opioids affect my mood or thinking?

    • How is my mood, sleep, or stress level affecting my pain or medication use?

    • Am I at risk for misuse or addiction?

    • Do I need naloxone, and how do I use it?

    • Can I take opioids with my other medications, supplements, or alcohol?

    • What should I do if I miss a dose or feel like I need more than prescribed?

    • Can I crush, cut, or otherwise modify my pills to make them easier to take?

    • Where and how should I store opioids?

    • How often will we review my pain management plan?

    • Why would I need to sign an opioid therapy agreement?

    • Why does my healthcare team do routine drug screening?

    • Who should I contact if I have questions or concerns between visits?

    • What are the long-term risks of opioids?

    • What warning signs might mean it’s time to stop or adjust this medication?

    • What is the plan for safely tapering down and stopping opioids?

    • Where can I dispose of unused medications?

Resource Download

Questions to ask your doctor

This tip sheet is not a replacement for medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare provider about what is safe for you based on your medical history.

Download and Print PDF →
A proposed list of questions for patients to ask their healthcare providers about opioids and cancer pain management, including sections on reasons for prescriptions, side effects, safe use, expectations for treatment, and duration of opioid use.

Watch Videos

To continue learning, explore our educational videos.

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Opioid Safety

What every patient should know

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Cancer Pain

Making a plan that works for you