In Georgia, the number of opioid doses prescribed to Georgia patients surpassed 541 million from June 2016 to May 2017. 

This is enough to give 54 doses to every man, woman and child in the state. Opioids are a class of drugs that include heroin, as well as prescription pain relievers like codeine, fentanyl, hydrocodone, morphine and oxycodone, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. 

Millions of prescriptions are written for painkillers every year to help provide relief for patients experiencing pain. But a 2016 report by the American Society of Addiction Medicine shows that prescription pain relievers account for nearly half of accidental drug overdoses. 

While these statistics may be scary, getting a legal prescription for opioids and using them the right way can be an important part of pain management. Here are four things you should know before taking prescription painkillers. 

1. Painkillers should not be used for long-term pain. When dealing with severe short-term pain as a result of a broken bone or surgery, opioids can provide some much needed relief. But if you are suffering from long-term pain associated with arthritis, lower-back pain or nerve pain, there may be other medications that will provide relief with less risk. 

2. Be prepared for side effects. Painkillers can cause constipation, depression, hormonal imbalance and a weakened immune system. They can also cause dizziness, high blood pressure, itching, a slow heart rate, slowed breathing and vision problems. 

3. Alcohol and opioids do not mix. Using alcohol and opioids can result in serious side effects by themselves, but using them together can be deadly. Using these substance together can slow down your breathing rate, which could lead to brain damage or death due to a lack of oxygen. 

4. There are other options for pain management. If you’re dealing with chronic pain lasting for three to six months or more, consider non-drug options. Acupuncture, massage, meditation, physical therapy, tai chi and yoga can help you deal with pain. Be sure to talk to your doctor before pursuing any alternative treatments.