Pain medications can be a double-edged sword. People in pain need help. Too much of a good thing, however, can cause addiction and endanger health.

Medications intended to ease pain can sometimes cause more when an overdose occurs. People in certain US states may be at a greater risk for overdoses based on the prescription practices in those states.

Many Americans battle chronic abdominal pain, which may be a symptom of serious conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, or gallstones. However, experts are worried that doctors are over-prescribing opioid painkillers for the pain, especially if another medication is a better option.