1) Biological organisms have sophisticated protective responses to threats, including pain. Pain is a conscious experience that motivates protective action in the entire organism, and is particularly well-developed in humans. 2) Opioid use can lead to hyperalgesia and neuropathic changes in the nervous system that sensitize pain pathways. Gradual tapering is recommended for treatment. There is no evidence opioids work better than placebo for chronic pain. 3) While opioid prescribing continues to increase, effective long-term drug therapies for pain are unlikely to emerge. Non-drug approaches may play a larger role in pain management and help reduce harms.