Expert: Charles I. - 9/2/2009

Question
My ex-wife is/was a recovering drug addict. She recently injured her back again and is back on opiates to deal with the pain. Is there ever a reason for someone addicted to  pain killers to take them again? She has had multiple relapses over the years and has gone to jail this past year for not passing her tests in drug court.We have one son who is still quite young and with a joint parenting plan I am really concerned for his safety.  

Answer
Hi Ben,

Well the simple answer is yes there can be reasons to take pain-killers even though you have had an addiction to them...that answer is pain!! When a physician prescribes any medication they make a determination if the benefits will outweigh the risks. Now, here's the big question...does her doctor know she has an addiction to them? If she isn't up front with her prescriber then he/she can't help her manage her recovery. The other issue is how long will she be prescribed the meds? Is this a short medicinal therapy or is this going on week after week, month after month?
If you have a relationship with her where you can talk to her peacefully then maybe you can express your feelings to her out of concern for your son. If that isn't the case...then you may have to take more drastic measures to ensure that your son is safe while he is in her care. I'm not telling to go that route...try all the peaceful resolutions you can with her...especially for the sake of your son. You could mention to her about talking with her physician about alternative pain management techniques (ie. physical therapy, aqua-therapy, acupuncture...etc.) if she is trying to maintain her recovery.
This is a situation that I work with my clients on. The reality is that virtually everyone, at some point or another in their lives may be faced with pain issues. This situation can be dealt with if the person in recovery is pro-active with their care and honest about their history of addiction with the physician. Too many people feel like if they are honest the doctor will not prescribe them anything and they will just have to suffer. The reality is there are various analgesics available today that can be effective with controlling pain, but not have as high of a possibility for addiction (Ultram or Tramadol is an example of this). I believe you have every right to talk to her about your concerns since you both share custody. That's where to start...you'll have to make decisions as you have more info either positive or negative. I wish you the best and know I'll keep you in my prayers.

Charles