Understanding Opioid Therapy in Pain Management

A 67-year-old patient with a history of osteoarthritis is being treated for persistent joint pain that has not responded adequately to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The healthcare provider prescribes an opioid analgesic to manage the patient's pain. The nurse is responsible for educating the patient about this medication. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates a correct understanding of opioid therapy?