SIX OPIOID SAFETY STEPS (SOS) 1. 2. 3. 4. Never take a prescription pain medication unless it is prescribed for you. Do not take pain medicine with alcohol. Do not take more doses than prescribed. Opioid medications mixed with sedative or anti-anxiety medications can be dangerous. 5. Avoid using prescription pain medication to help you fall asleep. 6. Lock up prescription pain medicines.