Some people are on pain meds for the rest of their lives and I'd venture to say, not by choice. People needs drugs for various reasons and again, I'd say not by choice but out of necessity and likely will not attempt to quit their meds.
For instance someone who is a paraplegic who is in severe pain will likely be on paid meds for the rest of their lives. Someone who struggles with Parkinson, MS, spinal deformities, will likely be on meds for the remainder of their lives. Certainly not by choice.
Smoking cigarettes is a choice, smoking marijuana is a choice, drinking alcohol is a choice .... those vices may be addictive but they are a chosen vice not one of necessity.