While some of us would never imagine taking heroin or cocaine, finding that we’ve been diagnosed with cancer or any other condition, which leaves us in chronic pain, is enough to warrant a prescription for this powerful drug. In most cases the person uses the medication as directed, but when they don’t, addiction is possible or even likely. It isn’t just those who are prescribed the drug that are becoming addicted. Because of its potency, many people are stealing the drugs from family members or friends for recreational use, or even purchasing the drugs on the street.