Hydrocodone

[Rick]

Got addicted to hydrocodone due to back problem. Been taking about 6 months. What can I do to relieve withdrawal symptoms?
especially depression and sweats.

[Ultram Warning]

Ultram/Tramadol Warning:  I was introduced to Ultram about a year ago prior to having spinal fusion surgery.  I had asked my MD if there was a non-narcotic option that I could try instead of the Vicodin.  He suggested Ultram and felt that it would be a very safe alternative.  For those of you that have not taken it, it is an extremly effective pain reliever and frankly, I found it to be better then the vicodine.  It also had what I thought was a subtle mood elevevation effect.  I have never had trouble discontinuing vicodin and have never abused prescribed dosages but even at below "safe" daily dosages of Ultram, I found it almost impossible to stop.  I had to use high doses of vicodin as a substitute and taper over 5  weeks...then you have to deal with the vicodin taper.  I am extremely concerned with the medical communities lack of understanding of the addictive nature of Ultram.  For any of you that have been exposed to chronic pain, you can understand the benefits of the mood elevevation component.  IN SHORT, THE PURPOSE OF THIS NOTE IS TO MAKE SURE THAT NOBODY THINKS THAT ULTRAM WILL BE SAFER AND EASIER FOR THEM TO AVOID ADDICITION.  I am confident that once the FDA has ample evidence, they will change the classification of this drug but I feel very sad for the thousands of people that will struggle with discontinuing a medication that were told was "safe" by their physicians until that change takes place.

[emmapeele]

Trying to quit "cold turkey" is a bandaid fix for a lifelong problem. If you are addicted to drugs or alcohol, AA or NA can provide you with a new way of life. It is amazing. I know... I went from taking 10-20 Lortab 10's a day to living a happy life. Just try it. The people there have been where you are, no matter where that is. If you are honest, they can help. All you have to do is be honest and willing to try.

[MentalAddict]

I was an hibitual drinker for 10 years, getting drunk every weekend and sometimes a couple weekdays too. When I had neck surgery I discovered hydrocodone and found myself not caring at all about alcohol and wanting to take the pills everyday. I ordered from online sites while they were still legal and was up to 7 10mg pills a day. I know that is not a lot compared to what everyone else here has taken but I was definately hooked and felt like I NEEDED them just to feel like going to work or talking to anyone. When the internet sites were shut down a couple of years ago, I got a local doctor to prescribe 30 capsules a month. Seems minor, I know, but I would count the days between refills. A bottle lasted me about 4-5 days and then I was back to anticipating the next. From my experience I have found this stuff is very mentally addictive. It can also be worse for a person who has  fought insecurity and depression his entire life (been on welbutrin for 5 years). I have been off it for 7 weeks now (doctor finally cut me off) and just in the past week I began feeling like I can get on without it. However, I find myself looking in the medicine cabinet or kitchen of just about anybody's house I find myself in - friend's, relative's, or someone throwing a party. I still have no desire for alcohol. It seems like an "imperfect high" that is now not worth the hangover. I just know that if I were to win the lottery, that would be it for me. Probably, I would get on heroin for the rest of my life. Only my responsibilities to my family keep me from going down that road.

[FLaddict]

Yes a similiar thing would happen especially since Fentynl is such a strong pain medicine.. I will say to becareful the patch is very strong stuff and very hard to get off of once you are on it.. I believe that patches are changed every 2-3 days.. so refills would be easier I would imagine..
I wish the best for you... struggling with pain and not wanting to continue taking pills is a tough spot to be in...

[Todayiamhopeful]

My doctor wants to put me on a pain patch.  I hesitate because she is not alwys availbale to give me refills as needed.  I would rather be in pain than continue to be at the mercy of a physician that cannot fill my Rx's as needed.  I was hoping to try cutting down on the MS Contin by next week-end but know I cannot cut in half or crush.  If I were to go on the patch (Fentanol?) can I expect to discontinue the MS too without withdrawals?  I do not want to take pills anymore after 4 years.  My overall health is becoming affected.  I've been following this forum for about 8 months now and have watched many of you succeed. Your help and support is appreciated.

[Yoda99]

Fladdict is correct.  While I was on the oxycontins for my pain, I also took Lortabs for breakthru pain.  Because I was worried about what the tylenol would do to my liver, I stopped taking the Lortabs cold turkey and experienced no withdrawals.  Why would I?  I was taking large amounts of oxys.  But if you weren't taking the MS Contins, you would definitely experience withdrawals.
Good luck,
Yoda