If you take opioids chronically, you may be to taper your opioids due to side effects or lack of benefit with use. Alternatively, you simply may no longer wish to take them. Talk with your provider about your goal for tapering. For many people, the goal is to no longer take opioids at all. However, for others, the goal may be to taper opioids until they take the lowest dose of opioid medication that is helpful. Your provider can help you set a goal right for you.

Work with your health care provider to set up a schedule for tapering opioids. Slow tapers often reduce your opioid amount by 10% per month. Faster tapering schedules may be recommended instead. As you taper, follow these strategies:

• Try relaxation therapies, such as deep breathing exercises, guided imagery, mindfulness exercises, yoga, and tai chi.
• Practice healthy sleep habits, such as going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, avoiding screen time before bed and using your bed and bedroom only for sleep.
• Add movement to your day, every day. Begin with an amount of movement you are comfortable with. Gradually increase your activity over time.
• Ask about other medications or non-medications that may be helpful to address pain
• If the pain is impairing your functionality, talk to your provider about slowing the rate of your taper