Sorry about your sister in law but everyone is different. I have been on the same dose of a narcotic and it has allowed me the ability to exercise and keep myself in better shape. It has saved my life so to speak. I eat well and NEVER and I mean NEVER take more medication that I am written. I have been on the same dose of my medication for years and am stable. I tolerate a level 3-4 pain on a daily basis but I accept that. Natural remedies were worthless for me. Like taking candy. Addicts will find ways to get more medications no matter what. Many chronic pain sufferers I know follow their prescription instructions to a tee.