Questions to ask when prescribed an acute pain medication

The term “acute pain” refers to temporary, short-term pain. Acute pain typically lasts for a month or less, though it can last between 3 to 6 months in some cases. The onset of acute pain is sudden and usually has a specific and identifiable cause, such as surgery, an injury, or an illness. Pain that persists for longer than 3 to 6 months can be classified as chronic pain. The causes and treatment of chronic pain are more complex.

Acute pain will resolve as the body heals and recovers from the thing that caused the pain. Medications are often prescribed to manage acute pain during treatment and recovery.

What to ask when prescribed a pain medication

It is important to remember that there is no pain treatment that is right for every person. What therapies you’ll use to manage acute pain will be something that you will decide with your healthcare provider. It’s important to take an active role in your healthcare, to have a good understanding of all medications you are taking, and to bring up any concerns that you have.

With that in mind, here is a list of questions to discuss with your healthcare provider when you are prescribed a medication for acute pain.

Is this an opioid or non-opioid medication?

One of the most important things to understand is whether you are being prescribed an opioid or non-opioid medication.

• Opioids are powerful pain-relief drugs that act directly on the central nervous system (including the brain).
• Non-opioids act through different mechanisms besides the central nervous system. There are multiple types of non-opioid medications available.

Why is this difference important? Opioids carry significant risks, potential for misuse, addiction, overdose, drug interactions, and death.

Guidelines recommend the cautious use of opioid medications. Many healthcare providers and people with acute pain have legitimate concerns about opioids. Non-opioid medications are considered a much safer treatment option—and are also equally as effective at treating and managing pain.

It’s also worth mentioning that there are many non-opioid treatments, and that non-opioid options continue to improve. A new non-opioid pain medication became available in 2025, and other drugs are under development.

Questions to ask about a medication you are prescribed for acute pain

• What is the name of the medication?
• What dosage is being prescribed?
• How does this medication work to treat pain?
• How do I take this medication?
• How often should I take this medication?
• How long will I be taking this medication?
• How should I expect to feel while taking this medication?
• What are the potential side effects? What will we do if I experience side effects?
• Is there a risk of serious side effects?
• Can this medication be habit forming? Is there a risk of misuse?
• What steps can I take to avoid side effects or reduce risk?
• What things do I need to avoid while taking this medication? For example, alcohol and recreational drugs.
• Is there a risk of drug interactions? Can I have a list of drugs that I need to avoid while taking this medication? Bring a list of all medications you are taking, including medications for other conditions, over-the-counter medications, and supplements.
• What options do I have if this medication does not work or I need to stop taking this medication?
• What will this therapy cost? What can I do if I have concerns about the cost of treatment?
• How will we know if this medication is working? How long will it take before the medication works? What options do I have if this medication does not work?

In addition to your healthcare provider, your pharmacist is a valuable source of information, and can answer questions about drug interactions, side effects, how to take a medication, and many other topics mentioned in the list above.