yehudayona:
You listed true opiates. The list should contain the popular codeine. They are commonly prescribed for pain. Many are also used for cough suppressants. They all have abuse potential.
It is worth noting that doctors who legitimately prescribe these medications tend to over-prescribe. They may intend for it to be taken 3 times a day for a week, which would require 21 doses. It is common practice to prescribe more than that, perhaps if a pill falls and gets contaminated or lost there is a replacement. Regardless, there is no hesitation to prescribe more than is needed, and these medications are rarely discarded even after the condition or symptom has resolved. The pills laying around pose a risk and should be discarded.
With the focus on opiates, attention is diverted from other habit forming medications that are abused just as easily. The barbiturates, often prescribed for anxiety, pain, and seizures, carry abuse potential and are addictive. The same goes for a host of anti-anxiety drugs. Older ones that were popular include Valium and Librium. Newer ones include Ativan, Xanax, and the like. Anything used for either sleep or anxiety should be suspected of having these risks (most do). Many of these meds are often used for chronic conditions, and the liberal prescribing of them makes them risky, not less than the opioids. The dangers of overdose exist with these medications similar to the opioids.
Throw away the medications you no longer need.