Which of the following strategies can help avoid opioid abuse?

Dosing instructions and safe storage are critical strategies in preventing opioid abuse. When patients are given explicit guidance on how to take their medication safely, it minimizes the risk of misuse. Proper dosing instructions help individuals understand the correct amount to take and the frequency of use, significantly reducing the likelihood of addiction or accidental overdose.

Additionally, safe storage practices are essential. By keeping opioids secured—away from children or others who might misuse them—patients can prevent unauthorized access to these potent medications. Storing opioids in a locked cabinet or using medication lockboxes can greatly reduce the chances of diversion, which occurs when medications are taken by individuals for whom they were not prescribed. This two-pronged approach—pairing appropriate dosing with secure storage—serves as an effective way to mitigate the risks associated with opioid medications and move towards preventing abuse.