HELP! Weaning Off Hydro/APAP WIth Panic Disorder

My doctor put me on Hydro/APAP (10/500 ~ 3x Daily), about 4 months ago, to help with lower back pain caused by Ankylosing Spondilitis. Unfortunately, I now find myself taking them as often as every 4 hours. I have also suffered with Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks since 1982, for which I take Paroxetine and Lithium Carbonate. And Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), for which I take Omeprazole. My doctor has also prescribed Xanax (0.5 mg), as needed for the panic.

My problem is that I'm afraid to stop taking the Hydro, due to the panic attacks which occur if I try to stretch out the time between doses. And I'm really hesitant about taking the Xanax, to help with the panic attacks, as I understand the drug interaction with Hydro is listed as "Moderate". However, the Hydro is reeking havoc with my IBS (constipation, diarrhea, lower back pain, excessive flatulence, etc.). And when an episode of diarrhea sets in, so does a panic attack (sweating, fear, feeling of doom, nausea, etc.). I feel like I'm on a merry-go-round.

My doctor has not been sympathetic with my situation so, any help I can get from here would be greatly appreciated. I need to find a way to wean myself off the Hydro, with as few withdrawal symptoms as possible, due to my fear of experiencing panic attacks.

Also, any information regarding the use of Xanax while still taking the Hydro would be helpful.

As a side note, I have recently undergone a Nuclear Stress Test, Gallbladder Ultrasound and Hida Scan, extensive blood work and an Ultrasound on my heart. These tests were ordered to rule out the possibility of a heart/coronary condition, as well as cancer. (My doctors do not currently have an explanation why my white blood count has been going up over the last several months. However, with the exception of finding stones in my gallbladder, and a thickening of the urethra walls, all tests came back negative for heart disease and/or cancer.)

[IBKleen]

Hi & Welcome,

It sounds like you have a lot of going on. It is a violation of our guidelines to provide taper information and especially in your case with several underlying medical issues, it would be down right reckless of us to do so.

You are going to need to work with your doctor to taper off safely. He can also recommend something to help ease the process. I would even be cautious about recommending natural supplements with your IBS and your blood count out of whack.

If your doctor is not working with you to safely go through this process then I have to suggest you look for a new doctor. It is important that you do this properly.

I wish you the best and hope you get through this soon.

[GA_need_help]

I I really empathize with your situation.   You are welcome to private message me.   I am in the middle of a taper off a strong pain killer.  I can share my experience, strength and hope with you personally.  As I mentioned I haven't finished my taper, and the biggest obstacle I am facing is anxiety.  I am still functioning in my roles as mother and wife to the best of my abilities!

Big, big hug,
Marie