Effects of Percocet and Oxycontin

[Not Perfect Either]

My husband is taking both of the pills listed above and is buying them from dealers.  It has been going on over 3 years now and has really gotten expensive.  He has HepC and I have told him how damaging this is to take these pills with his liver disease.  He says that he can't work the way he does without them because they give him energy.  I am starting to see the sudden outburst of anger.  Especially if I say anything about the pills.  Can anybody tell me what the long term effects are going to be for him and how I can get him to see that the pills are not really giving him energy and how bad they are for him?

[percsnomas]

Hello!!

Well, I'm surprised you didn't see the anger(volatility) much sooner.  That is something many of us have experienced first hand, and is one of the many wonderful(NOT) side effects of oxycodone, and opiates in general.   Hell i remember if someone even looked at me funny at the grocery store, i was ready to clobber them; and truth is they were probably just going to say hi.
As far as other side effects, well of course there is the liver which you mentioned and the kidneys.  Thankfully there isn't tylenol in the oxycontin, but the tylenol with percs is surely compromising these organs' well being. My very good friend, a percocet abuser, just got off a dialysis machine 2 days ago, for failed liver and kidney function.  He is an otherwise healthy 32 year old man. Then there are changes that occur to the brain, that in many cases can be permanent.  Some addiction specialists draw the analogy of an addicts brain to a person that has had a stroke.  Although recovery is CERTAINLY possible, the addict has to basically train different parts of the brain to resume normal function.  So clearly, there is a relationship to length of abuse and damage, and in turn recovery efficiency.
Then there are things like the continual stress to the GI tract, and ability(or lack of) to rid the body of toxins, since your husband is probably constipated all the time.  And one of my favorites that many people kind of forget about(since these things can ultimately suck the life right out of you), is the erosion of your teeth.  I think this is a result of the severe mineral depletion that results from opiate abuse.  It cost me several thousand dollars to get mine back to health after i got off percs.  Oh, and we can't forget about sex life; husband had any animal instincts lately(not trying to be too personal); probably not, if he is like most of us that get stripped of our "drive".


Now the second part of your question.  It is too bad it is not your husband asking these questions, as your good intentions will likely fall on deaf ears.  You can point out these things, but he has to want to change his behaviour first.  I am NOT trying to discourage you, but it is what it is!!!

In any case, I wish you and your husband the very best!

percs

[percsnomas]

Sorry, I guess i forgot to mention, financial ruin; as his habit will correspondingly grow with his tolerance.

I think you get the idea, a pretty lousy deal all the way around!!

[pasttime]

IS SEEKING HELP FROM A THERAPISTS OR OTHER MD A GOOD IDEA. aND HOW DO i FIND ONE? I REALLY NEED HELP

[NEW ORLEANS LADY]

Hi and welcome!--Many people on this forum swear by M.D.'s known as addictionologists (Drs whose specialty is the treatment of drug addiction.  I myself prefer to fight my demon alone with the help of this forum.  Please tell us about yourself--What are you taking? How much?  You will find so many loving and caring people on this forum that totally understand what you are going through. Peace and Prayers

[JB84]

This is my first time on the forum. I am a 36 year old male. I started taking Lorcet about one year ago. I am very healthy and never had any pain. I just take it for recreation. I experienced withdrawals for the first time about two months ago. It was awful. Since then, I have not let myself have withdrawals. I take 3-4 at night, hardly ever during the day. I know it's not too late to quit, and reading some of your posts scares the hell out of me. I have heard that it is best to not quit cold turkey, but to back off slowly. I have two great kids, a wife and a growing business and I know what I need to do. Could someone who has been through this tell me the best way to quit.

[mrmichael67]

In most cases, it is true that backing off slowly is the least shocking to your body.  In your case, you should put down the lorcets, run and never look back.  Your withdrawals will pass quickly....within a few days.  You will feel like yourself again and life goes on, if you take my advice.  You should read all through these posts and in the archives and see what continued use of those things will do for you.

[mrmichael67]

Get yourself a little immodium (if needed).  Maybe some valium or xanax for a couple of days to sleep.  Maybe some greenage if possible.  I know it helps me.  Actually, I won't detox without it.  You could take four one night, then three the next, then two, then one, and then none.  That would probably be best for you with "tapering".  Honestly, with the amount you take, that is the end of the taper for many.  Just do it and get it over with and don't look back.  You certainly don't want to join the club, if you know what I mean.

[JB84]

Thanks for your time and advice. Today is the first time I have ever been on any type of forum for hydrocodone and it really opened my eyes. I really only noticed the past couple of months that there seemed to be a problem. I never knew the dangers. My biggest problem is "friends" that call me daily wanting to know if I need any. I can't figure out where so many pills come from. They are everywhere. Yes, I always have 'greenage'. Since I started this habit, the 'greenage' has taken a back seat. I guess that's one good thing about it. I certainly don't want to be one of these people that take 10 pills a day so I will take your advice. I have app 20 pills right now. I'm gonna take two a day for 2-3 days and then back off to 1 a day. Think that will be ok?

[percsnomas]

Hey Welcome Here!!

The good news is that you are on a relatively low doseage, and for a relatively short period of time; so this is an excellent time to put a stop to it. (You did say you know what to do.....ie. quitting)

Two choices: 1.) Cold Turkey---gets it over with quicker, and you can hide behind a good flu story. After about the third or forth day, you should start feeling better; with the exception perhaps of sound, and a full nights sleep; lack of concentration...and generally lethargic.

             2.) Tapering---(my preferred method, but prolongs things and can be very difficult will power-wise) At about 4 pills/day??, you could drop 1 and stay at 3/ day for four or five days, then dropping another pill, to 2/day staying here for about a week......down to zero.  When you get to 1/day, you can break them in half taking half in the morning and half at night.  Remember now you are taking them to help stave off withdrawals, NOT get buzzed.  There really is no need to drag this out too long, especially if there is a chance of eroding your resolve to get off them.
BOTH OPTIONS ARE OPEN TO YOU
Read through the Thomas Recipe(posted everywhere here), and specifically the L-Tyrosine/B-6 ingredients; exercise; drinks lots of fluids; and in no time, you'll be enjoying your wonderful wife and kids, growing your business further....all without hydro.  
Take Care

[hippy]

welcome, jb.
i think mr michaels advice is excellent
and he hit the nail on the head,
perc no mas was just as good.
get out asap.
peace!!!!!!!!!!!!!!hippy
keep us posted.

[bmac]

You are a very smart person so take the advice from the guys above. You don't want to come back here in a year with a 20 pill a day habit and in the shape that most of us have been in.
MrM hit it on the head and his advice along with Percs and Hippy should be taken very seriously. Drug addiction is not a pretty site my friend at all. You are at such a low dose now that just giving them up will be a breeze. A little flu like **** for a couple of days and you will have your life back.
Lets just leave it at this, if you pop back on here in a year all strung out and messed up I will find you and beat the **** out of you. LOL
   Good Luck my friend...........bmac the troublemaker

[Not Perfect Either]

Thanks for your response.  I am a first timer on this site and
I have learned lots today about the effects of long time abuse.
I am considering printing out the info that I have read and passing it on to my husband.  Thank you again for responding so soon.  I was a little desperate today.  Oh, the "anger thing" has been an on going process over the last 2 years but I have noticed over the last 6 mths that he quicker to anger than before.  However he is not abusive to me or the kids just kinda flies off the handle.  I worry most about his health and the financial aspect of all of this.  I am still searching the site and tell me what does CT mean?

[mrmichael67]

With twenty, you can take four for two days, then three for two, then two for two, then one for two....or any variation with the same concept in mind.  You are down so low that you will feel a little gnarly after doing that, but nothing terrible.  Believe me, with increased tolerance, it gets MUCH WORSE!  Smoke a ton and within a few days, you will be good to go.

[vettezr1]

Hey guys what is Trazodone, Doc gave it to me becuase I refused to take pain killers, or any other ****. He said it would just help me sleep amd was tottaly safe.I tried to look it up on the web, and found a pretty scary report. People die there heart explodes. But it states there is no addicttion possiblility, it would be nice to sleep but is this stuff safe??? Then there is a big warning to not stop taking this med without telling your doc??? I just want to make sure there is no catch, other than the (dying part) with this stuff. Doc said take it for a week and I will get some sleep I can stop it whenever I want.
Thanks Guys.

[kilo]

As for your question...CT means "cold turkey"
You have received a wealth of info, I pray that together with your husband's problem you will be able to get through this.
I can tell you from experience that having someone support me and understand (the best they could) was priceless.
Keep in mind though, this decision lies with him and him alone.
You cannot make choices for others and you should not allow others to make choices for you.
Best of luck...keep posting. You have many caring individuals here who are willing to listen and help.   Peace to you

Kilo

[oxic]

Your Doc was right.  Trazadone is a MAOI(bunch of big words) and serves as an antidepressant.  In lower doseages, it is quite sedative.  Like yourself, after I got off the pills was paranoid about taking anything for sleep; well my doc (that has been a alife-long friend) convinced me it was safe.  I've been taking it on and off for about 10 months, and am very happy with it.  It definately gets me to sleep(with just 50 mgs) rapidly, however it only keeps me asleep for about 4-5 hours.,, and I don't feel groggy in the morning.  I can fall back to sleep after i've awakened in the middle of the night.  I've stopped taking it several times with absolutely NO side effects.  I've read all the side effects also, but experienced none.

Hope that helps

percs

[oxic]

....sorry, i forgot to add that it took about 8 or 9 days to start working.

[vettezr1]

Thanks, he also told me to take 50m only at night, I was never a big sleeper my whole life anyway so 4-5 hour's would be great I will try it, I was more affraid of the male pattern baldnees side effect, I will try it and let you know, thanks again.

[mrmichael67]

Sexual side effects are very common with trazadone.  It happened to me very profoundly and is quite scary.  I don't like anything messing with the family jewels, if you know what I mean.  It doesn't happen with everyone, but it is very common.  It basically makes for an unproductive ejaculation.....shooting blanks if you will.

[pasttime]

I posted a message yesterday and didn't give much info about myself. I have been reading here off and on for about 5 months. The posts here scare the hell out of me sometimes. I have a habit of taking loracet and cough medicine. I don't have a good supply of any of it so I am without it alot, but when I get the chance to get it I do. I have tryied quitting before and it faile. At that time I told my wife and my dr because I felt that would help. After it failed I ended up lying to my wife and my dr. Thatfilycaught up with me about a week ago and my wife found out because of the money I had been spending to get it. So I fessed up to her. My dr found out I was going to other dr's and getting this cough medicine. So the people who were helping me before have been let down by me. My wife is still supporting me and that has been great. I always quit cold turkey but always come back to it. My question was would therapy help me with that or an addictionologist. How should I go about finding one should I go to my dr and have him recommend one although I am sure he is mad at me. I know I will go back to it without help. I want to be strng for my marriage because that is the most important thing to me and my career. I am only 26 and been married for 2 years. I keep making my wife remind me of why I should be strong. Any advice would be greatly apprectiated. I need it!

[mrmichael67]

The sexual side effects might manifest themselves in other ways, but that is how it happened with me.  As soon as I stopped the trazadone, it went away.  Don't get me wrong, trazadone is an excellent med for this purpose.  But, you should know all there is to know and have your eyes wide open.  And remember, that happened with me.  That doesn't mean it will happen to you.  Many anti-depressants and anti-psychotics have that side effect.

[mrmichael67]

Talking to your doctor would be an excellent idea.  Maybe he does know of an addiction doc for you to go to.  Or, maybe someone here has a url to post that might help you?  Call your local hospital and see who they have on staff.  Hospitals (at least by me) have a physician referral service that should be able to help you out.

[pasttime]

Thankyou for that I will call the nearby hospital tonight. Is there a certain time when you just stop wantingthese things. The longest that I have went in the past year has been 2 weeks and I would always just start back.

[Not Perfect Either]

Thanks for the words of encouragement!  I read some of your responses to other's questions last night and found out that you have a great sense of humor!! It's nice that we have a place to go with our problems and yet can still laugh(outloud) sometimes. Know what I mean??  By the way I did print out some archive stuff on quitting and gave them to my husband. He did not mention it at all but a couple of hours later I asked him if he read them and he said he did.  That was it, no further conversation.  Listen I have did the  CT thing back in 1988 with cocaine so I know he's gotta want this for himself and me fussing about it will never work. I just woke up one day a took a look at myself in the mirror(what a shock) and decided that drugs were not what I wanted out of life.  I was so ashamed that I had let it get so out of hand.  Waking up and having to face up to snorting $500 up your nose in one night(with a little help from my "friends") was a bitter pill to swallow(pun intended). Thanks for your support.

[kilo]

Nice to hear back from you...sounds like you've been down that road from hell called addiction. So needless to say you know all too well what your husband is facing.
Believe it or not, that's a hugh asset. Having walked a mile in someone's shoes pretty much gives you carte' blanche when helping your loved one. All I can re-affirm to you is to gently remind your soulmate that you will help him, help himself.
I have yet to meet anybody who has abused prescription narcotics for a significant period of time, who doesn't want to quit.
It's the classic law of diminshing returns...the more we do, the more we need and all the other headaches that go along with this.
I don't think nobody, me included, ever set out to become physically dependent or addicted.
Sooner or later the motivation to quit smacks us upside our head!
As you know all to well, getting sober is easy, staying sober is the hard part. So just prepare yourself when the time comes, that relapse may take place, if not once then maybe a few times.
Getting clean and staying clean is a process...it's not a destination, but a journey. Should your husband make that choice and then find himself back to square one, just gently but firmly re-assure him about how important this commitment is to his health and your relationship.
I can't say it enough...having someone like you who is willing to commit yourself to his sobiety and to wrap it in love, but loving determination is truly priceless.
You know we all make that commitment on our wedding day, but when the time comes to fulfill it is the true measure of one's love.
I don't need to tell you this, but some people never get it. They never truly commit to coming clean, irregardless of the support around them. That's the time in your life, that tough decisions have to be made. You can't scare someone into sobiety, but on the same note you can't live your life on his terms and decisions to NOT change.
I pray that it never comes to that.
You have already helped your husband immensely. Like most of us here, we finally wake-up one morning and begin to set our course towards a drug free life. "All great journeys begin with a single step...I think your husband is starting to put his shoes on for that journey.  Stay in touch and best of luck to both of you. You'll get there.   Peace

Kilo

[NEW ORLEANS LADY]

All I can add to your post to not perfect either is---AMEN!

[NEW ORLEANS LADY]

The only thing that I can possibly add to your post to Not Perfect Either is---AMEN SOUTHERN BROTHER

[vettezr1]

Thanks, dude, I don't want to loose my hair, or have my privates not work. You never know when I might need them. I think I am going to stick with the Excedrin PM and just suck it up.
I am on five weeks I think into CT do you think I should not be having aches and pains in my whole body still. Or did I start lifting weights to soon? I still feel achey (achy) all over??????

[mrmichael67]

You should be feeling better at this point.  Working out will make you hurt.  I used to hurt like hell.  When I was growing up, my brother used to poke at the corner of my chest and arm because that used to hurt like hell for a day or two.  I used to get so pissed at him.  How much were you taking at your peak?  I would imagine the physical should be pretty much wrapped up.  After chronic use of opiates or opioids, there is sometimes a secondary withdrawal that can last anywhere up to six months afterward.  But, those symptoms are of a much milder nature.  Most people excape it.  Everyone is different.  What are your symptoms, besides the aches?

[justmaggie]

okay lost here , how does one get an answer to their post?  and is there any one out there that can give me some information?

[Not Perfect Either]

Hey Everybody,
Just reading up before ending my day.  Thanks for the words of encouragement. Oh well I guess you seen that I got an answer from the forum.  Kinda of scary thinking of life independant from my husband but that was something he said I may need to consider(WOW). Well today there was a major blow up.  He says he's down to one pill per day(don't know if he meant oxy or percs) cause he was angry and we were not in a good place to be having this discussion. I know call these suprise attacks cause I never see them coming. You guys keep praying for me and as always I look forward to hearing what you think. My last thought on that one a day thing is I know how much money he has spent so far this month and if he's down to one a day the price per pill musta gone up. But I didn't say that to him, just you guys. Hope you all have a great day and I will say prayers for all.  Pray for our Troops tonight!

[vettezr1]

Thanks, at my peak I was on 3-4 injections of IV morhpine a day.
So about 80m which when run threw the Narc calculator said an equal dose of oral Percs would be almost 120 pills a day unless I am reading it wrong. I just get achey (achy) all over mostly in my arms shoulders legs and back, I did break my back 3 times however. I am not getting the burn you feel from a good work out
just achey (achy) strange ****. And my nose runs every now and then. No sweats or anything like I had when I stopped the morph. I also don't feel like I am going to die anymore just weak and achey (achy) and not quite my self. Docs want to fuse my lower spine and add some more titanium but I am to affraid of taking this **** again. I don't crave it or want it, I just don't ever want to feel that kind of sickness again.

[NEW ORLEANS LADY]

What type of information are you looking for? Are you addicted to a mood altering substance, like most of us here? If so what and how much are you taking?  Do you want to quit?  There are many people here that will answer your posts--PEACE AND PRAYERS
NEW ORLEANS LADY

[hippy]

hey there , just ask away,
all questions wanted,
so what is up.
what is happening. what  cha taking and how much.
what do you want to do about your problrm.

peace!!!!!!!!!!!!!hippy

keep america beautiful
stay clean

[I just want my life back]

I have developed a major problem in the last several months.
I have herniated discs in my lower back that will require sergury
to correct the problem. My doctor has prescibed Percocet for the
pain until I can see a nuerosergeon and have a date set for my operation. I have been on pain meds for about four months now on and off. Whenever I try to stay off of the medication, the pain
is too much for me to take.I am due to have the operation in the
next three to four weeks tops because my appointment with the surgeon is in one week.My concern is that I have become addicted
to the percocet and I don't know how I am going to handle it when
it comes time to get of the pain med after my recovery from the
sergury.I feel horrible when I am not taking the percocet and I
don't know if I can survive this.I just want my life back. Does
anyone have some advise for me? I would surely appriciate it.
                                            
                                                  Thanks

[I just want my life back]

I have developed a major problem in the last several months.
I have herniated discs in my lower back that will require sergury
to correct the problem. My doctor has prescibed Percocet for the
pain until I can see a nuerosergeon and have a date set for my operation. I have been on pain meds for about four months now on and off. Whenever I try to stay off of the medication, the pain
is too much for me to take.I am due to have the operation in the
next three to four weeks tops because my appointment with the surgeon is in one week.My concern is that I have become addicted
to the percocet and I don't know how I am going to handle it when
it comes time to get of the pain med after my recovery from the
sergury.I feel horrible when I am not taking the percocet and I
don't know if I can survive this.I just want my life back. Does
anyone have some advise for me? I would surely appriciate it.
                                            
                                                  Thanks

[I just want my life back]

I am going thru withdrwls from Percocet when I am not taking it
for back pain. how can I get thru this?

[oxic]

Hello; sorry, i didn't see your post till now.

My initial suggestion would be to get your surgery done with, and deal with the dependancy after that.  I wouldn't have had the resolve or the strength to get off percocet(20+/day for many years) until i took care of the relentless back pain that would continually grind me into submission; i also had two lumbar surgeries, from disc herniation(s). I don't think there is any reason to  suffer from the pain(and the guilt from taking the pills)
There are several pieces of good news to your story.......you haven't been on oxycodone that long(i don't think you mentioned how much?), and you have a condition that has been diagnosed and can be remedied by surgery.  

I've been off percs now for 9 1/2 months, and for the most part my back is now pain free........and couldn't be happier.
Just the fact that you are so concerned about the dependancy already, tells me you will reclaim your life also........after your surgery.  First things first my friend.

Please keep posting, and let us know how you make out!!!!!

percs

[MethMan]

Percs! Whats up man!
How you doin'? Haven't heard from you in a while and just figured "da man" was keepin' you down.

Peace my brother,
Methman

[sweetcloverspy]

Hi,

I just found this site today...and hope that I can find help here.  I started taking Vicoden almost 2/yrs. ago for CTS...I had surgery last year...and have continued to take them for pain and for the high.  I only take up to six a day...and that has only been for the past 6mos.  I used to take only 4/day.  I have tried quitting...but I feel very sick...and find it impossible to do my work...and household duties.  I have a wonderful husband & daughter...that know nothing.  What is the best way to get off of these things?  I truly am SCARED!  Thank you for you time.

I'm glad this site is out there!

[MethMan]

Hey! Welcome to the board!
At 6 Vicodins a day, you're lucky.  Still, you will feel pretty rough for about a week or two.
I'd suggest three things:
1. Post HIGHER in the messageboard to get more attention
2. TAPER (if you can)
3. Take a look at something called "The Thomas Recipe".
Folks here will post it for you.

Keep coming back, it works if you work it!  Boy.. if that ain't a shameless plug for a certain group. :)  (It ain't true, but it sure is catchy!)
Peace,
Methman

[oxic]

Hey Welcome SweetCS!!!
To answer your question regarding what is the best way to get off the vikes is, "any way"(i'm not being a smartass....just want you to accomplish the task); and i believe it all starts with wanting to!!!  As Methman mentioned, you are at a "low" enough doseage that you could either Cold Turkey, or Taper.

I definately promote tapering, by dropping in one(1) pill increments, and staying at the reduced rate until you stabilize(3-5 days), and subsequent drops, all the way to zero.  I also suggest that you do a mental "shift" , whereby you now take the meds to stave off/reduce withdrawals, VS trying to get a buzz.  It might sound unimportant, but it certainly helped me mentally.

I'll copy and paste the Thomas Recipe, which has some great pointers during and after your detox:

Thomas Detox Recipe

PLEASE NOTE: I am not a doctor, simply a long-time Rx opiate junkie who has had many opportunities to develop a way to detox. This is a recipe for at-home self-detox from opiates based on my experience as well as that of many other addicts. It is not intended as professional medical advice. It is always wise to make sure none of the recipe ingredients or procedures conflict with medications you may be taking. Likewise, if you have any medical condition, disease, allergy or any other health issue, consult your doctor before using the recipe. Thanks, Thomas

This recipe is designed for cold turkey opiate detox. It assumes that you can get about 5 to 7 days away from your job or household responsibilities during which you can sleep, veg and act as miserable as you feel. Opiate WD mimics the symptoms of the common flu, so, if you need a smokescreen, hide behind a bad case of the flu.

If you can't take time off to detox, I recommend you follow a taper regimen using your drug of choice or suitable alternate -- the slower the taper, the better.

For the Recipe, You'll need:

1. Valium (or another benzodiazepine such as Klonopin, Librium, Ativan or Xanax). Of these, Valium and Klonopin are best suited for tapering since they come in tablet form. Librium is also an excellent detox benzo, but comes in capsules, making it hard to taper the dose. Ativan or Xanax should only be used if you can't get one of the others.

2. Imodium (immodium) (over the counter, any drug or grocery store).

3. L-Tyrosine (500 mg caps) from the health food store.

4. Strong wide-spectrum mineral supplement with at least 100% RDA of Zinc, Phosphorus, Copper and Magnesium.

5. Vitamin B6 caps.

6. Access to hot baths or a Jacuzzi (or hot showers if that's all that's available).

How to use the recipe:

Begin your detox with regular doses of Valium (or alternate benzo). Start with a dose high enough to produce sleep. Before you use any benzo, make sure you're aware of how often it can be safely taken. Different benzos have different dosing schedules. Taper your Valium dosage down after each day. The goal is to get through day 4, after which the worst WD symptoms will subside. You shouldn't need the Valium after day 4 or 5.

During detox, hit the hot bath or Jacuzzi as often as you need to for muscle aches. Don't underestimate the effectiveness of hot soaks. Spend the entire time, if necessary, in a hot bath. This simple method will alleviate what is for many the worst opiate WD symptom.

Use the Imodium (immodium) aggressively to stop the runs. Take as much as you need, as often as you need it. Don't take it, however, if you don't need it.

At the end of the fourth day, you should be waking up from the Valium and experiencing the beginnings of the opiate WD malaise. Upon rising (empty stomach), take the L-Tyrosine. Try 2000 mgs, and scale up or down, depending on how you feel. You can take up to 4,000 mgs. Take the L-Tyrosine with B6 to help absorption. Wait about one hour before eating breakfast. The L-Tyrosine will give you a surge of physical and mental energy that will help counteract the malaise. You may continue to take it each morning for as long as it helps. If you find it gives you the "coffee jitters," consider lowering the dosage or discontinuing it altogether. Occasionally, L-Tyrosine can cause the runs. Unlike the runs from opiate WD, however, this effect of L-Tyrosine is mild and normally does not return after the first hour. Lowering the dosage may help.

With breakfast, take the mineral supplement.

As soon as you can force yourself to, get some mild exercise such as walking, cycling, swimming, etc. This will be hard at first, but will make you feel considerably better.

PLEASE NOTE: If you have any medical complications, first check with your doctor before detoxing to verify that this regimen is safe for you.


Most importantly, please keep posting......cause we definately care about you!!!!

percs

[MethMan]

Also, aside from the Thomas Recipe, the originator of this gem provides an invaluable service that goes far and beyond his generous nature.  He refers to it as "Opiate Certification".
Simply pour any and all remaining Vikes into a padded envelope and mail em to him.
Once received, he will begin "analysis" on the contents and mail you the report of the product's potency.
You won't get anything back, but you'll be sure of the quality of the contents.

All BS aside,
Try to look at the good side of things.  Dwelling on the bad causes more hardship than necessary.  Hang tough, it does get better.  And after a little time, you too can be as full of **** as I am!

Peace,
Methman

[bmac]

Oh you have got it made if you just take your time and taper the right way. You are on such a low dose you will be just fine. Hang in there and ask alot of questions. And don't be afraid to post at the top. All this bickering will all be over soon so come on join us in this addiction hell and welcome!
                   Bmac

[bmac]

Hey babes I am way down here. I told you babes I like it better on the bottom! Jesus, now youz guyz believe me? Come on babes wanna come out and play?     Bmac

[twiceain'tnice]

Just saying HI! It's been almost four weeks since ct!!! I am feeling pretty great.  No one ever responds to me but I just wanted to say thanks again.  I am having some cravings.  I can't believe after detox and then relapse and ct at home I would think I could do this **** again,  the mind if an addict.  I love AWW and am proud to currently be a survivor. I have used over 20 years and am a LIVING example that we can get clean.  Hope to stay there. Hope.

[peaz]

Well shame on us!!!  If no one responds to you I hope you accept my apology and I will try to pay more attention......Four weeks is AWESOME and I'm sure you're feeling more and more human w/ every passing day!!!  It sounds like since you went thru detox, relapse and now CT that you finally have your head in the right spot!! You want this and you're DOING IT!! So congratulations!!!!!   Keep us updated!!  Do you have any pointers to share that got you over the rough week or so?  Lots of newbies seem to have trouble then. What was your secret??:-)   Thanks for writing!! Peazy

[peaz]

Top?  Bottom? Oh, like since WHEN are you picky??!!
Anyway---I'm here and you are nowhere to be found....what kind of cruel joke is that? You must be w/ your harem.....

[pammy0690]

I have Bill under my desk right now.  He keeps feeling me up... PR

[helpherplease]

my fiance is killing her self with percs somas and other random drugs i love her to death and wish there was a more abrupt way of handleing the addiction shes two years stong on the pills and has a hell of a life history the slowing down dosent work it causes withdrawl so servire she ends up in the hospital in shock what do i do

[Ga Guy]

You've posted to a very old thread. You may want to post to a new thread to get more answers. That being said...does she WANT to get help? If she's not at that stage, there's not much you can do short of turning her into the police and hoping she gets court mandated detox. Is she getting these drugs legally? Does she have chronic pain? We can suggest ways for her to get through the detox and withdrawals, but she has to want it for herself, first.

[beachtowel]

You cannot make him stop he will choose his drugs over you 100% of the time.......

You need to protect yourself, if you have children get them away from him...........

Protect yourself from the demon your husband has become..........

I used hard drugs for 37 years everyday unless I was locked up...............

I left many family members victims in my addiction, my drug of choice was always #1
Its not just the drug it is what the drugs do to your thinking and emotional process..........

It is the distorted thinking caused by years of drug use that will always choose drugs before
anything in life....family, wives, kids, jobs etc...............

I am sorry to write such harsh words but sometimes people need to no the truth of what there in for.........and I understand exactly what your husband is going through and how he is thinking........

Sorry

[FLaddict]

Are you forgetting the dates again?  that person was from  4 years ago...

[theclem13]

hello. I am having a difficult time. I have been taking percs sometimes, but the problem is my boyfriend. I have discovered that he has been lying to me for a year. He is completed addicted to Roxys and Oxys. He has lied to me about everything. He lies about his paycheck and spends it on bills. I made him move out of my house this morning. It is just so hard. I am worried he may die, but I know  I  cannot save him and we stayed together I would probably end up losing everything financially. I am just so scared. I feel that I should tell him mom ( who is now living with) but I know he will feel like I betrayed him.

[a$hamed-no-more]

hi. so - i have been taking percocet for the last 1.5 years. a few days ago i looked at my life and felt so ashamed! i thought that i just had to stop taking them and free my mind up with activities so i didn't think about not taking them - so far so good! it's been 2 days since i last had one and i cannot believe what i have experienced - hence my search for a forum like this! last night i was sweating all night, shaking all night in bed, tossing and turning and in a ridiculous amount of pain - what felt like terrible cramps down my legs and back. today i have been so moody, and the cramps are still in my legs and back. in fact, my back hurt so bad i decided to visit my chiropractor.....my point is that i had NO idea i was addicted until one day i just decided enough was enough! i am in so much pain, so much misery and am too ashamed to ask anyone for help......i'm hoping this goes away by tomorrow b/c i don't want to take even an advil to help me with my pain.....

[TENTOLIFE]

hang in there it will get better i.e. withdrawls and life  the fog will lift you will see clearer again and it's well worth it.  When your off don't ever ever think you can take just 1 on a friday to "feel good" or whenever and stop, because you WILL be back in a year or 2 at another go at getting clean. Don't be ashamsd be proud to beat it.  

[TENTOLIFE]

You have a tuff situation and you have to be tuff. Oxy w/booze can kill depending on amounts he drinks the combo can cause respitory arrest (stops breathing} I' ve been there got me off oxy's at least anything above 10mg, saw 80' plus. if he does not drink much thats a plus. You are right it could ruin you finacially the move out could help him see the light but talk to him he has to want to quit you can't make him quit.  Its tuff you should stay away from pills and try to tell him " will beat it together", don't let him back in the house and take you down too. Good luck.

[TENTOLIFE]

I'am new to post. Background in a capsule 10 yrs ago back surgery pecocet several 10/325 dailey occasional 10mg oxy. 2yrs ago have another blown disc in neck can't operate on, in pain always but doing Pilaties and working out to gain mucsule tone in back. Tired of pills got off 3x in ten years felt good after 3 to 4 day withdrawl but the deamons come to call a month or so down the road on a weakend pun and the years go by. I think I can live with the pain because it feels better when I am off meds mind is clear get things done. I also have  brain injury memory is gone but thats another forum. I have experience in tis will try to chime in every once in awhile hope I can help going for round 4 soon.

[dogsbite2]

Dude,

you have given the most sound and accurate advise I think I've seen thusfar on the subject of Oxy abuse. ALL the symptoms are dead on. As a matter of fact, you just answered why after 33 years of having two cavities in my life I found out three months ago when going to the dentist that I had 13!! I now know why. I am on my 6th day off Oxy's. 800-1200mg's daily. Talk about killing a horse. I am now on Bupenorphine. Seems to be working with the exception of gastro distress. Any words of wisdom for me???

[K_Train]

Hey everyone, I'm a 19 year old pharmacy student and recently i've gotten into a bunch of older prescriptions for various forms of pain killers. (Roxicet, Percocet, Oxycodone w/apap) all the same stuff at 5mg/325.  I haven't taken much less than 50 pills, but lately I've been feeling the addiction.  I started out feelin good with 3 pills at night, just to help me sleep.  However I've upped it all the way up to 7 a night and I have no idea what this is doing to my body.  I know opiates are not good for you by any means, I just hope I haven't done a lot of damage to my body.  I want to quit doubly because on a daily basis i handle drugs at the pharmacy I work out, not to mention my career will be in pharmacy.  I was wondering if anyone could enligten me on what i've done to my body so far...

[matt r22]

ive never done oxy before but i ****** up and snorted a little bit the other day. all day yesterday i felt horrible cold and then sweating  panic attacks and i woke up and still feel this way i've never done that **** before and wouldnt think i would get withdrawl how long will this last?

[inthecity]

*No need to fill everyone in on all of the EVILS of what this addiction will do to a 9 year marriage, but this message should inform quite well:

My wife had a strong addiction to percocets about 1.5 yrs ago.  She quit via prayer & a medication (forgot the name) that her therapist prescribed to help her LOSE her cravings for the drug.  She also takes Effexor.  Her sex drive hit rock bottom and our relationship has ran right behind it and has YET to return.  She often walks around me "short-fused", very defensive and ready to POUNCE.  Countless issues to our relationship persist and I have only recently realized (upon reading up on the addictions' counter-effects) that her brain may have changed somewhat through it all which could have permanently changed her personality, especially towards me.  (For what it's worth) it is also somewhat refreshing to grasp the idea that "I" may not be the complete cause for her LACK of desire in the bedroom.

2 questions:
Is it typical for her ANGER & discontent to reverberate this long after her addiction has ceased?  Will her sex drive ever return?

[Brain71]

Wow, I have been reading the posts and there is allot of good advice.  Thank you all.  I have been using oxy"s for about 1.5 years now.  I was introduced to them from some friends at work that were using at the time (still). I don"t use on a constant basis, but about once a month I will buy 10 pills or so and use till gone. I have several injuries from accidents and its nice not to be in pain for a week or so. I have noticed some changes in my heath and its really scaring me.  My sex drive is suffering, and I seem to be constipated more than usual.  I have justified my usage because i don't use on a daily basis.  I guess I have been lucky not to get completely addicted, yet.  I tell my self after a binge I wont use again but, not yet.  Reading these posts has opened my eyes.  It sounds like some of you have been through hell.  I have had the withdrawals and I would say that part of why i don't use regularly.  I guess I am looking for some advice on HOW TO JUST WALK AWAY!

[GoingToMakeIt]

Sometimes it is confusing when you find a post to comment on. This one was form 2003. We all would love to talk with you, so at the top there is a Post a Question button. Start a new post so that it is current.

[Bmore410]

hey guys, first time on this board. just been thinking and times are getting scary and trying to make my life better. Ive been taking opiates now for about 3 years. my first opiate intake was at age 17 and it was oxycontin. i can see why people get addicted to it In the beging OC is the best drug for  giving a hugh high with an even bigger eurphoric rush.
but when i was 17 and did it, it was only a couple times prob not even more than 5 times in that year, which isnt bad. but im more scared now from the pasttwo years where i have been doing them a lot more. buying oc 80s couple times a week. doing no less than a 40mg  up my nose sometimes more up to a full 80. I'v been getting worse b/c where i live its easier to find opiates than it is nug.  
I guess its b/c living in a bad area, only 20mins away from baltimore where it has the worst herion and oxycontin problem in the US. but i live in the suburbs, proves to all you suburbs moms bewear how the cities drugs gets pushed out to the suburbs more than you imange.

gettin back on track, once i see my self getting bad i move my self out of the problem. luckly i got family members to stay with whenever i want if i want a week or 2 getaway. and i do fell ok after those hard 3 days. but i still cant get to sleep at night. its like I'm tired enough to go to sleep when im laying down so i go up to my room with the lights out and trying to fall asleep but cant. i stay awake till like 4 or 5 in the morning until the sun breaks and then fall alseep with leaves me tired for the next day and start to get small dark bags under my eyes.(any ideas on how to remove them? like i remember seeing something on tv about that)
From who i talked to before opaite withdraw can occur up to months after last dose. is that true? cause i stoped 2 weeks ago and at first i was doing fine but now its like my perosnality is gone, like always got **** on my mind and just cant get to sleep. so my frinends been giving me some  benzos to help from CT effects so it help me sleep which helps but i just dont know what to do. like can i talk to a doctor about being put on something to help with the withdraw attacks and not sleeping . im not trying to take a suboxson or methadone, i've heard some bad things about those drugs. but benzos seem to help with not thinking about it too much, and alot with sleeping.

oh yeah off the topic question. from what i was reading about this in prior comments dealing with brain damage from use of opiates. is it posable to get brain damage (like a brain tumor) at a young from opiate use (such as snorting it as to just orally taking it)  

[Surgey]

You people who take Oxycontin and the like illegally and for recreation make my stomach turn. I HAVE to take it because I have terrible chronic pain. I worry everyday of my life about the side effects but I would be a cripple without it. I had to search far and wide to find a DR willing to give it to me for REAL pain because most DR's are too scared to provide it for people who need it because of idiots who take it illegally. Thanks to those of you who do this for making my life a living hell before I was able to find a DR brave enough to face the DEA since I have documented REAL pain. You people need to realize your actions cause problems for people with REAL medical problems. If you want to use drugs for recreation, go smoke some pot or do some cocaine. But for the sake of the people in this world with REAL chronic pain, STOP abusing prescription drugs!!!

[charged]

I have been using for 7 yrs now and only do a couple of percs a day. I was off for a year but now I am back, it sucks. My side has a weird pain. I have to get some tests done to figure out problem. Could my kidney, liver or other organs be permantly damaged?

[strongJ]

Ive been using perc 30 for upto a year now, I first started with a little piece a day, but started taking upto 3-5 perc30's a day. I have slowy cut down and now only take 1 a day. Should I try not taking them at all? will the withdrawal be really painfull??

[wildwoodone]

strongj, this is a very old thread that most people won't read all the way through to get to your question.  To get the help you need and the most responses, click on the green box at the top that says "Post a Question" and tell your story on your own thread.  Good luck to you!!

[stoner4life69]

don't ever start doing oc! if you haven't already. but if you do start... stop nowwww! like seriously. i've watched people's lives get ruined by it. like my boyfriend. he gets soooo mad about little things now and it's hard for him to stop cause of his friends and he doesn't wanna be "***** whipped" and listen to me and stop eventhough his whole family has noticed he's different. he's only been using for like 3 or 4 months and i feel like he can stop but he can't. it's already gotten too far. and everytime i try to tell him he shouldn't he gets pissed so now he's not ever gonna tell me when he does it and when he doesn't. it's gay. i need help cause i really love him and it's sad just watching his life and money go down the drain..

[kansascityking96]

This is a great forum , I just found it today an have read alot of posts an questions. I think this will be very helpful an  informative for me, thanks

[preciousandfew]

I think I posted this in the wrong discussion initially, I'd really like some insight...so any responses help.  I should also say that this is a prelude to an intervention we are considering having and I want to be as well educated as I possibly can be to understand this disease....see below.

I have a drug question that I need answered.  I have been reading and reading all of your posts in awww, it's amazing how the addiction to pills possesses your very person and very scary too.  I guess I am looking for some answers for my brother who is an admitted opiate addict, however, he will say he just wishes he had a constant flow of it fo rthe rest of his life and he'd be happy....sick.  He's 25 doesn't work, doesn't do much of anything but chase the pills.  He developed chronic staph infections about 6 years ago and they prescribed him vicodin for the pain.  He has turned into a compulsive liar, a theif (he stole pills from our grandmother who has cancer!) he can't be trusted.  He e-room jumps, buys from dealers, and he also has a reg. doc for the staph infections who prescribes him norco every 30 days, which he tears through in a few days.  Recently he was given 5mg/500 oxycontin for "breakthrough pain".  His dr doesn't know he takes pills regularly, but I'm afraid he's gonna o.d. one day from all the pills.  He says I don't understand because I don't do them...can someone give me some incite?  Once I realized he had a problem I started reading up on this addiction, so I know more than he gives me credit.  

Oxycontin is so dangerous, why would a doc give someone such a strong med for a problem that's only painful when he has a sore?  How does the oxy 5/500 compare to the norco or percoset for that mattter?  ie; does 2 or 3 norco = the same potency as 1 oxy 5mg?  He takes between 3 or 4 norco at a time and I noticed when I was with him the other day he popped 2-3 oxy at a time.  I made a comment "aren't those stronger, so you don't need as much?"  He said each kind of pill feels different...can someone give me a quick break down?

[onmyown103]

well i will try my best, altho i have a problem as well, but i dont know what a narco is?? and oc 5mg is basically nothing on the scales of strength. pretty much one of the lowest doses u could take if just taking one. but chances are if he has been taking them that long he is taking a lot more than 5mgs. as your obviously know your tolerance rises the longer you take them.  when u compare vics, percs and oxys the strength is all different, and depending your pill of choice or the pill u have history with they all are different.  oxys are the worst to become addicted to bc it is the closest to a form of sterilized heroin. whereas percocet and vicodins are pain killers/tylenol (although 15 mg percs and up are closer to being oxys then their own family of percs because just like oxys they contain no aspirin and is basically the same thing as oxycotin, just a lower dosage. 5 & 10 mg oxys are (at least where im from) pretty rare, anyone who takes them takes 40 mg to 80 mg and u can get up to a dollar a mg. so yes someone who can take more than 1 or 2 oc 80's a day (which can def happen once ur tolerance gets up there) has a huge chance of turning to heroin whereas its dirt cheap and the ocs are basically ripping a hole in their wallet.  
the thing that makes me nervous about what your say about ur brother is that he has no desire to stop.  once u lose that desire to change ur life for the best and u give in entirely to the drug is when it can do huge damage not just to the abuser but to everyone around that person. if u were someone who took them even on occasion, recreationally or not, you would know the feeling it gives you and how it can be so addictive. a lot of times most people dont realize they are addicted until it is too late, and then dont know who to turn to, or how to stop. you are doing the right thing by reading up and becoming aware of the situation, but just know someone who has been taking painkillers for 6 yrs is 99.9% doing more than 15-20 mgs a day.  sometimes the best way to help someone who wont help themselves is to make them do it on their own. the reason for stealing is bc once ur fully addicted u truely cant function properly without the drug, whether it be talking, working, or even showering, i mean ur energy level is literally non-existant.  i feel as if maybe bc u know what u do and obviously care about him maybe an intervention will work. but biggest thing to me i guess would be to not feel as if i was being looked down on. maybe if my family understood and just cared and didnt look down on me for the problem that i had developed id be more apt to get help, for them and myself. attacking/cornering an addict can be very bad if they take it the wrong way.  continue to try to be understanding and willing to learn and listen. and know i am 23.. and ive been taking them for about 2 and a half yrs.. i started with 5mg percs and 10 mgs- splitting them in half, then no one had the small mg pills anymore.. it jumped to 15- and 30 mgs. i could take up to 3 30s a day now, and my family doesnt even know i take them. its sick and scary. but im on my own and i know i need help. goodluckxo. i hope god is with your family

[onmyown103]

"You people who take Oxycontin and the like illegally and for recreation make my stomach turn. I HAVE to take it because I have terrible chronic pain. I worry everyday of my life about the side effects but I would be a cripple without it. I had to search far and wide to find a DR willing to give it to me for REAL pain because most DR's are too scared to provide it for people who need it because of idiots who take it illegally. Thanks to those of you who do this for making my life a living hell before I was able to find a DR brave enough to face the DEA since I have documented REAL pain. You people need to realize your actions cause problems for people with REAL medical problems. If you want to use drugs for recreation, go smoke some pot or do some cocaine. But for the sake of the people in this world with REAL chronic pain, STOP abusing prescription drugs!!!"


wow. i am in awe of your ignorance.  first of all, this is a different age, a different era - painkillers are now one of the most used and most easily attainable drugs that there are. i respect the fact the they give you what you need to live the most normal and effiecent life you can with the medical condition you have developed, it is for people like you, why painkillers have become an almost "miracle" drug. but with every drug there is no doubt a down side, and the down side to this is 1- they are highly addictive, and 2- they give a feeling of almost euphoria to those who do take them, which in turn makes one who recreationally uses the drug take them more which, again, in turn, makes the user over time addicted. the problem is most dont realize until its too late. BUT THEY DO REALIZE. AND HELLLO, it is not a drug one can just make by buying a bunch of stuff and puttin it together..it is made by a pharmacy, obviously. so if you havent noticed any of these people suffering from the hell that they no doubt did get themselves into, dont u wonder maybe how SO MANY people nationwide may have become addicted to a drug that is according to you so hard to get because of "IDIOTS"?

QUOTE "I had to search far and wide to find a DR willing to give it to me for REAL pain because most DR's are too scared to provide it for people who need it because of idiots who take it illegally

interesting how little sense that actually makes,.  in reality, if u werent aware, or maybe to dissapointed/nervous of the problems you too will ultimately develop from taking the drug over prolonged periods of time, and your tolerance as well my dear dummy will go up - obviously the problem is not that doctors are too afraid to prescribe the medicine -like you say- but that there is too many doctors giving it out for basically nothing! altho im sure some people have stolen from pharmacies, or maybe know a crooked doctor, that is def not majority. so before you **** on other people for having the balls and/or need to get help for a SICKNESS - just like you have - WHY DONT YOU THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU'RE SAYIN AND HOW MUCH SENSE IT ACTUALLY MAKES!  the problem is that right now i could call about 20 different people and they could all sell me painkillers if i wanted them! BUT YOU MUST BE RIGHT.. DOCTORS ALL OVER THE PLACE ARE TOO SCARED TO PRESCRIBE THEM! HAHAHA what a joke! what a stupid, unthoughtful, cynical remark you made. im glad people like me and millions others make you sick because of our problem.. you know what else is going to make you sick? when you dont have any pills one day after youve been taking them for however long and your body shows you what its like to be sick in a different way then you think you understand. and when you go to your "ballsy" doctor and describe these different symptoms you've been having and that same "ballsy" doctor of yours realizes that you too, are addicted to painkillers.  maybe then will you understand what its like to become addicted to something you didnt know would take over your life.  ignorance shall become knowlegde for you one day my dummy friend, and not because u wanted it.  i dont mean to wish anything bad upon you, but i do assume that you are older than i, because i am only 23, and i wonder if you have children. if you raised them to be as ignorant as you, or you are that not understanding, the problems they could have scares me.  i did not grow up with cocaine being the biggest drug, or acid, or meth or non of that ****. it was pot and painkillers. and nearly everyone i know got themselves into a hole they never even fin knew they were digging. so before you go calling people that are sick "idiots" and whatnot, maybe your should take a step back and wonder how in the hell they ever got a hold of the drug in the first place - IT WASNT BECAUSE DOCTORS WERE TOO AFRAID TO PRESCRIBE IT THATS FOR DAMN SURE.  being as young as i am and knowing first hand what happens when u mess with painkillers -i had to try to warn my own father of takin it for his disease.. and he needed it just like you. you know what happened? no matter how much i warned and worried, he became addicted too. amazing how a 21 yr old can beg their parents not to take a medicine givin by their doctor because they know better than the adult does.  dont stick your foot in your mouth before you know what your talking about. maybe you should look at some of this as an idea of what can happen to people and a hearftfelt warning instead of a message board of a bunch of druggies. btw ,, do you know the company that made perc 30s and etc is under investigation? because so many pills have been found on the streets and so many people - prescribed at one time or not - have end up in rehad for addictions to painkillers when the company originally stated that is was a VERY LOW ADDICTION RATE WITH THEIR NEW MIRACLE DRUG?
good luck to you and your chronic illness.. i hope you become well. i also hope you are not so ignorant about everything as you were about this.

truely yours,

smarterthanyou

[Glamor_Girl]

Hi there,
I'm new to this.. I'm a 22 year old female. I have a amazing boyfriend who is 28 years old. He got introduced to percocet about a year ago and has been hooked ever since, but latly i suspect that he is doing something a liitle more now. He goes in the bathrron for a long time and throws up several times. He gets very defensive when I ask him about it. He is a recovered Heroin addict, I'm afraid that person is back. To add his moods change in a blink of an eye, very bad mood swings and he has no sex drive at all. I've been researching Suboxone and I'm thinking thats the way to go.I just feel so helpless. Its out of my power, I cant make him stop, he has to want to stop for himself. If anyone can please advise me with any info. I've never loved someone whos been an addict and dont know what to do.

Thank you very much,

[ihatepercocet]

My husband is on his 3rd try of going CT; I'm not sure if I can stand by him any longer....:(

[Ga Guy]

This was a post started in 2003...many people will over look it. Please, start a new post and try again. You will be assured of getting answers that way. Also, try and ask some questions and not just make a statement. It's hard to answer a post when there's no question.

[todd247]

you sound alot like myself. family, middle age male and only take in the evening. Never take them in the day. If so you're setting up for disaster. Its bad enough now. I don't take as much as you. But untill you get fully committed you can go through your days normally w/o the pills. Stop increasing your dosage also. Go exercise in the mornings. It keeps the receptors in somewhat working order. Again, one is to many but hang on to your life at least through the daylight hours. Your family will appreciate it al;so!

jont

[avisg]

IBK explained it in avery good way good luck :) I hope to see you on the forum

[Vkc]

Hello,   I just got married, and found out that my husband is taking percocet,. In january  he was on a rehab for a month and a half, i thought everything is ok now, because i dont know much about this pills, but he started again, and it was my first time seeing him like that. I was so scared. And all our family found about it, and nobody is talking to him. I left for a while, but im still in contact with him. He is aware what he did and promissed that he will do everything to stop.
Why he started again after month and a half rehab? Is there any hope for this addiction? Is everything up to him? Is better to be left by him self, or to be around him?