A misunderstanding about opioid usage instructions may increase the risk of which adverse event?

Misunderstanding opioid usage instructions can significantly heighten the risk of opioid misuse, as patients who do not fully comprehend how to use their medication safely and effectively may fail to adhere to prescribed dosing guidelines. This can lead to either taking more medication than prescribed or using it more frequently than intended, both of which are forms of misuse. Proper education on the indications, dosing, and potential side effects of opioids is crucial in preventing misuse.

While opioid addiction, abuse, and diversion are important concerns associated with opioid medications, they refer to different aspects of opioid use that stem from misuse. Misuse can often precede and contribute to these other issues, making it a critical target for educational interventions. Thus, addressing misunderstandings in opioid usage can help mitigate the initial risk of misuse, which is a foundational issue that may lead to more severe outcomes like addiction and abuse.