O Neal revealed his 19-year drug dependence insider: painkillers are eaten as food, almost ruining the kidneys

NBA legendary center Shaquille O'Neal recently revealed the amazing inside story of long-term abuse of painkillers in his career on a podcast show. The four-time champion admitted that he often took prescription painkillers without authorization during his 19-year career, and even had fierce conflicts with doctors.

On a podcast, the Hall of Fame center revealed: "I will adjust the dose myself. If the doctor told me to take one tablet, I will take three tablets." He compared painkillers to part of his daily diet, "for 19 years, taking painkillers like club sandwiches with fries."

Later in his career, weight problems and repeated injuries continued to plague the three-time Finals MVP. In order to maintain dominance in the field, the "Big Shark" who is 2.16 meters tall gradually relies on drugs to relieve pain. Despite doctors warning that it had developed drug dependence, O'Neal refused to reduce the dose. He revealed in 2022 that taking medication for a long time has caused damage to his kidneys, and now he only takes GF-9 health products to maintain his health.

This super center, who averaged 23.7 points, 10.9 rebounds and 2.3 blocks in his career, is currently preparing for the new ESPN version of "NBA Insider" program. With the change of ownership of the new season's broadcast rights, O'Neal will open a new chapter in TV commentary with his old partners.