Reactions to withdrawal

I have gone through Naltrexone detox and I have had 5 days of nausea and vomiting. I am relucteant to take the Naltrexone because I am not sure if this is causing the nausea. Please let me know if anyone has experienced nausea and vomiting for this long a period following detox. I have had IV fluids and to aid in any dehydration. I am not sure if this is part of the withdrawal. I have been clean from Oxy for 5 days. Please help !! Will this feeling end? Finished.

[suzieneedshelp]

Finnished Where r u?????
Suzie

[Fleet]

I am waiting reply to my question?

[suzieneedshelp]

I am sorry i do not have an answer to your question.  Probably there is no one else on here now.  Weekends are usually slow.  But u wil get plenty of answers within 24 hours i am pretty sure.  
Peace to you!
My head fricken is killing me soo bad....I do not know how i can llve like this again!  Now that i am off the pain meds...This relentless pain reminds me of why i went on th e stadol.  
I need all of your prayers.
Suzie

[Tractorshaft]

How long is a piece of string? Everyones physiology is different. Some can go through withdrawl (withdrawal) with very few symptoms, others are textbook. I will tell you one thing, mental attitude is the number one factor in you getting over this faster. You can talk yourself into being sick or well. With 5 days under your belt the worst is over. Have you been eating well? Your diet could also affect the recovery. You need plenty of fresh vegetables, juice and vitamins. Anti-nausea medication also has a side effect of lethargy. Take a walk, get off the computer and get outside and smell the fresh air. Give it time and you WILL feel better. God bless and hang in there.

Jerry

[Blackbelt]

If you are able. Get in a dark place and put a cold pack on your head. if you don't have one use frozen lima beans, okra from the freezer.
  It will go away. My prayers with you.

[Blackbelt]

Going to"google" to look up your demon. Hane no knowledge of it .I'll be back.
   B'Belt

[Fleet]

If I could eat I would. One sip of water and I can't hold it down. Not sure if the Nalroxone is contributing to the nausea. I have much support from my family, but they want me to take the Naltraxone. I am gonig to beat this, just need to see if anyone knows or has taken Naltroxone and has experienced the same.

Fleet

[Fleet]

Suzie, Keep the cold packs on your head. Don't look back at why you started, think positve and stay focused on why you decided to stop. I will pray for your recovery and my own.

Fleet

[sharonver]

Fleet-

I do not know of anyone that has taken that med.so I can't even give you any suggestions of what it may be from.  My advise to you would be to speak to the doctor that gave you this med!!  It could be a reaction to the  med.  Ask him if you are suppose to be feeling that way and then ask him what he can give you for the nausea.  If it isn't from the med and it is only a remant  withdrawal symptom then it should pass in a few days.  I will try to get more info for you on the side effects of this med.  Hang in there...


Suzie..
How's your head doing? I see your doctor gave you more ultram. Email me and let me know what the doc said, or catch me in chat or IM. Hope you are feeling better...  My thoughts & prayers are with you.

Sharon

[Bungee7]

HELP!

I havent posted here much the last couple of days. For the most part the reason is I am embaressed. 6 days into my recovery I took  a pill. Since then I have been using again, not as much as before...but 1 is to many I guess. I don't know what to do. I feel myself going out of control again. I can't tell my boyfriend, after all the help he gave me and all I put him through....I am afraid he will hate me, he will surely be disspointed in me, I'm dissapointed in me. I don't know what to do,I know this time that if I do not get professional help...I will die or end up in jail. I am SO SCARED!!! I just need people to talk to, I will be checking the board for responses throughout the rest of the day and night. I hope you guys at least understand,

-Anthony

[J. E. W.]

DO NOT be so hard on yourself. We have all fallen at least once! You just have to pick yourself up and start over. Its not easy hon but you can do it.Never saynever!! Just start at day one again thts all you can do. Look forward not backwards.Were all here for you and send our love and support. Ill be praying for you to have strenth hon. Just keep posting and you know what you have to do. Your only human and we will all always make mistakes. All we can do is correct those mistakes..         God Bless...       J.E.W.

[FrankVaio]

I did the same thing. Iwas 15 day's clean from OXY's an one day I wanted to get high so I did, But the good thing about both of us we regret it. So don't let one screw up stop your recovery. They say after day 30 the craving kind of ease up. I'm at day 26 an it is getting a little easier. You heard this a million times but one more time won't hurt (ON DAY AT A TIME) don't think about tomorrow just get through today. We'll I;m going to a meeting now so I'll be back around 9:30pm EST. Hope you don't give up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Frank

[ladymp72]

I actually have done the same thing, I think we all do. I felt like the worst person on earth after everyone helping me so much and then screwing up again. To this day I still have trouble, but I am confident that one of these days it will all be like a horrible nightmare. I know you were calling them in before, right? If so is that how you are getting them this time? You can do it I know the couple times I relapsed it was for a couple of days and then I stopped the withdrawles weren't nearly as bad since it was just a couple of days but the anxiety is the worst. Just don't let it consume your whole life so you months and months again, or you WILL have to go through the yuckies all over again. Just tell youself you made a mistake but tomorrow I am going to start all over again, you just tripped and fell but now you are getting back up again. I know you can do it, like me you just need something else in your life since the drugs are all you are used to. Take care and don't be so hard on yourself I think everyone on this forumn has done that a few times themselves. Good Luck!

Michele

[suzieneedshelp]

Yes hon we have all done it.  Now the question is are you gonna fall into the total trap of relapse?  Heres how it goes..."WEll i already messed up bad so i might as well take more.  Wut a f__ up i am.. I am just a loser for relapsing.  No point in trying to quit again cuz i just can not do  it..I am just too weak.  Etc. So i might as well just keep on this sheeit cuz I am failed at withdrawal. "
Ok man.  that is the diease trying to convince u to keep taking!  Are you gonna let it do that ?? Are yu gonna give into self degredation and let it fuel your "need" to use??
I belive u are much better man thatn this disease wants u to believe!
You can do it.  One day at a time. Just do not take more today!  That is all u have to do.  but.. you need to listen to me and go to na daily for now....Right???
Peace, hugs and hope!
Suzie

[sharonver]

Anthony,

We have all been there before.  Don't be too hard on yourself.  This whole addiction disease is very difficult to overcome.  We have faith in you and we know that you can do it.  Don't under estimate your boyfriend, be honest with him and explain to him how very hard it is and that you need his support and help to continue on this difficult road to recovery...

Sharon

[dienikad]

Having wd?

Do not take ANPHETAMINE thinking it will give you something to do. As it may seem to help at first. I could not sleep, my brain got locked into that thinking zone. I started thinking up ideas for filtering codeine from tylenol #3. I hated it. I craved, opiates until 5 the next morning.

I relapsed, that day..

[freezing]

I detoxed from methadone and started naltrexone and didn't make it after about a week, was put on hydrocodone and reschedule for another rapid, anasthaesia assisted detox.  I made it through about 4 weeks on natrexone, and then stopped.  The natrexone had no negative side effects (but detox does).  (It does take away cravings for cigarettes, makes you sexually very "sentive", and reduces the effects/binding of opiates by binding the receptors as an antagonist.)  In case you don't know, do not take this medicine if you are actively using opiates, as it will put you in immediate full withdrawals.

Please help:  I am still totally and completely freezing (and in pain) after about five months!!  I was put on oxycontin (20x3), which doesn't do piddly for me (other than make me depressed, constipated, and lower my sex drive).  I am so freezing cold all the time that my life is sheer and total misery.  The heat can be cranked and under quilts and in sweatshirts (several) and I am still freezing.  Please tell me why!?!?  Is this from the methadone stopped five months ago at 100mg?  Could it be from disk/spinal cord rubbing/pinching?  Does anyone suffer from this from other opiate w/d's??

What is the cure!?!?  I'm sure 200mg of methadone would work, but until it's available for life at the grocery store, I won't go that route.  Thanks for reading and any response.  You can email me too at ***@****.  I hope you all find warmth and comfort and found a way to alleviate deppression.  (Any help there would be appreciated too.)  - freezing  (thanks.)

[Esmith28]

Hey buddy, so sorry your feeling like this, we all understand and beating yourself up is going to make you worse...you did it, the only thing you can do to make it not happen is ask Pharmacies not to feel any scripts...I wish I could help. I know it has to be worse for you because it is available all the time.
We are hear to listen..IM me if you need...
God Bless you

Suzie..How is your head...so sorry I cant imagine having headaches...that would be the pits...careful of that Ultram...

[freezing]

To be clear Fleet, I had absolutely no nausia, let alone vommiting from the Natrexone.  Perhaps you were not completely detoxed before you were started on the Natrexone.  Did you have any other w/d symptoms with the nausia/vommiting?

(That, above, was my first post.  I look forward to receiving, and possibly giving, some help.)  If anyone can help me, particularly with the freezing problem, see post above, I will be forever indebted.  Thanks, and well wishes.

[lisabet]

Hey Anthony - OK, so you've relasped a little, and the sad truth is you'll probably do it again. In my own experience, each time I relaspe, I come back from it a little stronger - after a few times, it gets to the point where you actually get pissed off at yourself and that makes you even more determined to do better. Before long, the relaspes get fewer and farther between (at least - this is my experience). Hope this makes sense. You've done great so far; just because you've "backslid" a time or two doesn't mean you failed...you've just fallen off the horse (so just get your ass back on!)....smile...  A little "tough love" there....(kidding - just trying to make ya smile)....You're gonna be OK - you have a lot of strength; I can tell that by your posts, although you may not feel it right now, I honestly believe you're gonna work through this.  Keep fighting the good fight, Anthony.  I believe in you.  Love, Lisabet

[J. E. W.]

Whered you go? Hope your ok. I e`mailed you. Did you get it?It didnt come back. Hope your just spending time with your family. Day 18 coming up!! I hope I dont go through that depression everyones talking about. Cant stand for no depression!!! Take care my friend..             J.E.W.

[sharonver]

I wouldn't be surprised at all if this freezing is still part of your withdrawal from meth!  I am actively detoxing now from meth and I am cold all the time. I am down to 6 mg. now.  It takes a very long time for all of the meth to leave your system. And it takes a long time for your body to get normal again.

Sharon

[ChiTownGirl]

Anthony, quit beating yourself up and start all over again dude! We all know how you are feeling, disappointed, angry, helpless, etc...   Just remember, these too will pass!  Let it go man, it doesnt do any good to make yourself feel bad.   How are you today?

[FINISHED!!]

How goes the battle Chi?

[Bungee7]

I wanted to thank all of you for all of your kind words.

I have another question! How do I go about going into an inpatient rehab for like 10-20 days? I think that's what I need to beat this awful disease. The problem is that I don't have medical insurance and I wouldn't know what to tell me boss etc...Any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks again,

-Anthony

[FINISHED!!]

I think talling to your doctor would be step 1. He may have the resources to find a program that wont drain every dime you have. One question; Why the inpatient route?

FINISHED!!

[ChiTownGirl]

Still clean and sober.  I am not counting my days, it really doesnt do me any good to do that, I just wake up in the morning and thank my guardian angels for another clean day.   Mind you, I still think about going and getting another script filled but I dont.  I dont want all the misery it brings.  So as you can see, I am holding my own quite nicely thank you!  How are you?  Still in the hospital?  I am starting an exercise regime tonite which will help get me back into shape.  I need to lose weight.

[Bungee7]

Well, I don't have a doctor to talk to. I haven't seen a doctor since I was 17, so it's been about 3-4 years. As far as the inpatient part goes, I figure it would be best because I have tried this on my own and it just isn't working...I figure going into a hospital would help me both mentally and physically and hopefully after that I wouldn't relapse?!?!


-Anthony

[Sugarbeens]

I think you have to decide what route to take.  Do you have support to do it at home?  I don't, no one knows, but, I can't risk going to rehab even though I do have insurance.  I think I can do this as long as the anxiety gets better.  I wish you all the best.  You are young, so maybe that is the right route.  How many opiates did you take a day?   Love to all.
Sugarbeens

[Bungee7]

I do have support. I have tried this at home, and was only able to stay clean a week after detox. I was up to 12 Hydro 10/500 a day. Now I am down to 3 a day. Thanks,


-Anthony

[FINISHED!!]

From 12 a day to 3? I thought you said that things weren't working. That's a HUGE cut in meds. You have a lot to be proud of. It's up to you of course but I think you're doing this on your own.

FINISHED!!

[rodewc]

I have to right to add to beans to a discussion here, seeing as I lasted a mere frickin 18 hours in CT before:

1. The Pill Wins, gulped 1.. then 2 of my stash of 6 Vicodin ES
2. Calling the Doc, and gettin' seen a wk. early; 6 Vicos was alarming.

Sooooooo, after reading this forum for about 1 1/2 months, my intentions are good but I am still robbing Peter to pay Paul.

My thoughts about some posts here are as disjointed as my life. Here are a few: I too licked pill bottles clean. I too have "stolen" from the medicine cabinets of family and friends. I have filled old pills' capsules (Tylox) w/ flour to avoid detection for theft. It amazes me that some people have 2-3 year  old narcotic and/or sedative scrips in their homes, relatively full bottles. Sigh.

I wonder how I got to this level in use. If I performed my job as these docs perform theirs, I would be a candidate for unemployment. I went from a 60/month  scrip for foot pain to another scrip (from another doctor) for 90/month.

This internist wrote this scrip after I offhandedly remarked, "I would love a couple Vicodin ES before I exercise." Hellllllo?? He asked how many.. I said 90.. thinking he would laugh or decline. Then when he whipped out the percription pad, I decided it was a one time thing, and my habit has escalated since summer. Refill after refill.. no questions.

Recently the pharmacies have asked for a Driver's License. One has my license; the other I am still playing head games w/.

This is a no win situation. Why can't I stop this when I stopped cigs? I remember the stomach cramps after w/d from nicotine. Surely dope couldn't be as hard. I Still think of smoking, almost 5 years later, but it hasn't consumed me.

It is unreal and uncalled for. There is no reason any doctor should be giving me anything for my level of pain.

Sure... Put the blame on them. Then remember how it feels to have 20 hidden pill bottles and nowhere to trash them for fear of being discovered.

Discovery.. another fear.. I remeber my spouse finding 2-3 empty pill bottles in the (clean) laundry closet and saying, "I found these." End of story. Another time, after teaching all day.. and I teach "gifted" kids, or so I am told:)) (couldn't resist).. a kid picked up a Vicodin ES from the floor IN FRONT OF MY STUDENT TEACHER and says.. "I found this pill. How weird to have the teacher say, "Oh thx.. and pocket it." (a pill from a dirty floor)

This is horrible, The dichotomy is that I am jealous of the drugs peeps here seem to have access to. For example, after a second oral surgery last month, I aske the surgeon if there is anything stronger than Vicodin ES, or longer lasting.. He says "No."

Now, HE is a good man, good at his job. If he had acquiesced, I could (make that Would) be facing D/Tox from OxyContin too.. which, of course, is the drug I was seeking. Instead he gave me the usual 18 pills (Vico ES). But this time, when I called him for a refill, he gave me 12 instead of 18 as he had after the first surgery's refill request.

My veins are non-existent. Why, I don't know, but have discovered such over the years. Now I am afraid that when I really need an IV, there will be no veins, because I wasted the few veins I had on a recreational high for dental surgery, when a "mouth shot" of that numbing substance would have been sufficient.

I am in the early stages of trying to quit, but juggling 2 doctors and 2 pharmicies sux, as well as consuming my every thought. I keep thinking that if I can stave this demon off 'til summer, I can detox alone: IE on summer vacation. I am also having foot surgery, so according to the podaitrist I stand an 85% chance of No Pain! On the other hand, I wonder if I am not having the surgery (heel/bone spur) simply to really get a good high.

I took what I hoped to be my last Vicodin yesterday around noon. Today I called in sick, w/ the Thomas Recipe Ingredients by my side. I lasted through one bout of chills and runs before I caved. The heating pad and hot bath staved off things for an hour. Drug use is a Catch 22.

F word alert

Sorry for rambliin'. I will try to avoid this soliloquy again 'til I can join those of you in sobriety; I want to say thanks for the support. I don't s'pose many of you realize this, but there must be millions, as I, who log on this forum many times a day for the wisdom that oozes from all your words.

Thank you.
~~

[rodewc]

The above should have read.. I have NO right to add beans to a discussion here. Sorry. I am to hasty to proofread. Addicts, like I, exemplify impatience. (and greed, and selfishness.. grrrrr)

~~

[rodewc]

Make that TOO frickin Hasty.. spose I don't even have to mention that I teach English:))

[Sugarbeens]

Addiction sees no boundaries.  I am a therapist and worked hard to get here because of severe anxiety as a child that was never diagnosed and I struggled and hurt.  Hang in there dear English teacher.  There are many out there who read this forum as I do everyday but who don't post.  There are many people getting the meds for pain as I do and abusing them.   I hurt really bad in my chest, a tightness, I know it is anxiety but I hate it.  I hope it is better tomorrow.  Harley lady, thanks so much for your very kind post.  I see you have been there.  Are you clean now and how long?  Love to all.
Sugarbeens

[Bungee7]

I know 12 down to 3 is a big drop but, I have been down to 2-5 a day since August. Before that I was on 8-12 a day from December 01' to August 02'. So I have been stuck on 2-5 for seven months, even for a few weeks I was down to 1 a day...I just can't get totally off. It makes me so sick to think that a pill controls me. I hate it!!!


-Anthony

[Bink]

Hi There.  I'm new to you but you are NOT new to me.  I have been coming to this site daily for the past month or so.  You are actually my imaginary friends.  You have given me so much information and enabled me to make much more informed decisions about quitting a "little problem" that my husband and I have acquired over the past two years--Oxycontin!  We have exhausted our financial resources (since they are not prescribed) and we've had to pay $80 for an 80mg tablet!!  Imagine the stupidity!  Especially since we would have to chew about 2 each of these 80mg in about a 4 or 5 hour period to get a buzz because of our soaring tolerance.  Anyway, we didn't know what to expect when it comes to withdrawals until we found this invaluable site.  I LOVE YOU GUYS!!  We have been weaning off of the pills until we are now down to about a 30mg per day level without any serious discomfort.  The problem is this:  Our source has run out of the oxys.  She has some hydrocodone, but I am wondering if hydrocodone and oxycodone are interchangeable as far as weaning down goes.  In other words, will we go through full withdrawals from the oxy even if we are substituting the usual dose (or an even higher one) of the hydrocodone?  This is an early "forced" detox since we have 4 days scheduled off from work on Feb. 14-17 that was earmarked for those detox days.  Now we are screwed!!!  I'm starting to freak out a little especially because my Dad is having surgery on Wednesday, and I need to be "there" for my Mom and all.

Anyway, I want to tell you all how much I need your common stories and how much better I feel knowing that I'm NOT ALONE.  It amazes me how many of us there are--all walks of life--teachers, engineers, Grandmas, etc.  You guys are amazing in the giving of your love and support.  I NEED YOU!  Thanks for listening.
Denise

[BLUE501]

Welcome! I completely understand were you are coming from. I am on day 8 of an oxycontin AND hydrocodone addiction. In answer to your question, yes you can use hyro. to taper from oxy's. I wouldn't recommend going to a higher dose of hydo. You want to tapper DOWN. Just take the least that you can without going into full blown withdrawl (withdrawal). I give you credit, I know how hard it can be to have a partner also dealing with this. Do you find that If one of you wants to use, it is real hard for you guys not too? Are you both committed to wanting to quit? I am here if you need anything.

be safe!!
linda

[FINISHED!!]

Well bungee my friend,
You need to do whatever you think you'll need to in order to get completely off the meds. It just seemed to me that you've already shown tremendous strength in your battle & maybe you'd be able to finish the fight without spending a ton of money. Inpatient programs work great but are expensive. Is this something, financially you'd be able to manage?

FINISHED!!

[BLUE501]

let me rephrase that. I am on day 8 of a DETOX from oxycontin and hydrocodone. Oops. My mind is not always right!!!



be safe
linda

[FINISHED!!]

Welcome to the family!!! I don't have anything to say because Blue answered perfectly. Take care & KEEP POSTING!!

FINISHED!!

[Bink]

Wow!  Thanks so much for your responses.  It feels so great to have you guys!!!!!  

Linda:  That is terrific to be on Day 8!!  How bad were your withdrawal symptoms?  Would you have been able to maintain around other people without suspicion?  or were you totally "in bed" and sick as a dog?  I'm so scared to do this, but we cannot continue to spend money (on credit no less) for this kind of junk.  Especially now that there is NO buzz only the spending alot of money to be "normal."  Also, it scares me to think that we may be in for a lot of depression because of ruining our endorphin release or Seratonin level or whatever the brain does.  I've been in tears too many times already because of withdrawals and didn't even realize that's what it was!!!!  Same thing with the aches and the runs.  I've had a low-grade fever for over a year and a half, and they can't figure out what's wrong with me.  It makes me ache like crazy, and in addition to all of the oxy's, I take up to 12 Ibuprofen per day for that too.  That's part of how I justified my Oxy use--because I ache so much if I don't take it!  

You are correct in assuming that it is difficult to have two of you in the family who are using.  We have been each other's worst enemy for a long time, in that when I was weak, he fell prey to the "demon" very easily and vice versa!  Yet on the other hand, I think that considering all of the money spent, etc. It would have led to so much resentment if we weren't both responsible, that we'd probably be divorced.  As it is, he is my best friend, my soul mate, and my comforter.

I am feeling very "twitchy" today.  I've only had 5 mg. (1/2 a Percocet 10) and no matter how much of the Hydro I seem to take, it still doesn't feel like it's doing anything from a withdrawal standpoint.  Well...today I've only had 17.5 mg. of the Hydro plus that 5mg of perc.  Am I actually withdrawing from the Oxy as though I were almost going cold turkey from it?  Or does my body think that the Hydro is the same thing only in a smaller dose? I don't know how closely related the two drugs are.  I just know that it would take too many Lortabs to get a buzz, and so I was afraid I would ruin my liver from the tylenol.  I didn't take it much--only as a last resort if my source was out of the oxy.  Then I would take about 8 tens all at once.  Shame on me!  

Thanks again for your replies!

Denise

[BLUE501]

Hang in there. I understand the fear, it IS scarey. But it's doable.  My symptoms were pretty uncomfortable. But with time they have passed. Your natural endorphines will return with time. Oxycodone and hydrocodone are interchangeable. If it seems the hydro's aren't working it is probably your mind telling you that. Because it wants the oc's . Try to tapper slowly if you can. I did it quick, cold turkey but that is not for everyone. Keep posting and you will get lots of good info.

be safe!!
linda

[teeitup]

Who say's people don't care about anyone but themselves anymore!
Great work to all the new members for admitting their problems and to those in the forum who are supporting them! We are in this together!

teeitup!

[Bink]

I really appreciated hearing your story.  Like you, I have just been a lurker for weeks -- since I found out that using the oxy's was no longer a just a "party" and that some of these annoying symptoms were actually "addiction".  BIG SHOCK!  DENIAL!  TEARS!  Oh well...I played with fire and got burned.  Now it's time for me (and my hubby) to pay the piper :-(

Anyway, it helps to know that there are others out there who can relate.  Good luck to you!!

Denise

P.S.  I quit cigarettes on the 16th of Dec.  I'm still chompin' on the Nicorette gum though.  Can't put myself through too much hell all at once!!

[BLUE501]

WELL HERE I'VE BEEN TRYING TO HELP MYSELF AND OTHERS. NOW I NEED HELP. I POSTED HIGHER UP IN A DIFFERENT FORM. TODAYS BEEN GOOD, AND NOW I GET HOME AND THESE TWO PEOPLE ARE AT MY HOUSE AND I KNOW THEY HAVE OXYCONTIN. I NEED SOME SUPPORT. I DO  NOT WANT TO DO ANY. I THINK I NEED TO TELL THEM TO LEAVE. I'M SO STRESSED OUT. THIS IS THE HARD PART. I'M NOT NOT NOT GOING TO MESS THIS UP. PLEASE GIVE SOME SUPPORTIVE WORDS OF WISDOM.

TO DENISE,
HELPING OTHERS HELPS YOURSELF. ANY WORDS OF ADVICE?

BE SAFE
LINDA

[Bink]

Oh I feel so badly for you.  This is the worst thing that could happen.  Sometimes I think that we ARE tested, and what a TEST!!!  You are so very strong, Girl, I admire the fact that you are asking for help rather than asking your friends to share!  The problem is that it is just too early on for an association with people who are using (especially in front of you).  That's like quiting smoking with someone blowing smoke in your face.  (I'm quiting that too).  Hang in there! Maybe you could tell them that you're not feeling well and need to go lie down.  Keep in touch!

Denise

[BLUE501]

I told those @#@#@#@ to leave. I told them that i'm trying to better myself. This IS a test. and I am going to pass. This is just going to make for a rough evening. How are you doing?

be safe
linda

[Esmith28]

Linda...I can totally relate to your situation I was at aparty last night and my old friend was there...but I just said I had to go home to put the kids to bed so I wouldnt see it, if I see it I will do it...so if you cant handle the situation do ask them to leave and not bring it back to your house. Be honest witht he people you can and that will help a whole lot..I have told everyone who would give it to me that I am quitting...then they respect it mopre and dont talk of it or offer...HANG TOUGH you have come to far!

Everyone new who have spoken up...Good for you for talking and putting yourself outhere...you have taken the first step to freedom....I read these post and realize I am quitting BEFORE REAL HELL..mine was prescribed and only cost 5 bucks a week for 30 hydro 10's...if I was buying off the street (which I couldnt do because I have two kids to raise)and we are already poor..I would be having the money and drug problem...so I am learning from all of you, strenght, and where I dont want to end up and will if I dont stop now...this disease only grows stronger and takes you down down down...til you have nothing...lets all keep rising up together...you are all awesome...
I get my block done tomorrwo AM yahooooo if I wake up pain free twed..I am going to be the happiest person ever...then we iwll really see how much the pain has to do with my craving...relapsed a bt..hubby gave me two friday.(perc10 ....one sat, I stole one from him...then he gave me two yest that I took today...so that is better than what I was doing..8 a day of hydro 10 for 6 months and then 2-3 a day for last 2 years...and tomorrow I wil be in better shape to face total quitting...God bless you all

[freezing]

Thanks Sharon.

Can anyone else respond to my post c17 above.  Thanks a lot for any direction.  I really need some.

[Bink]

Hooray!!!!  You GO GIRL!  Wow!  I think that you are awesome!!!  I sure do hope that I can be as strong as you are when it comes time to be completely done.  That might come as soon as this weekend.  I wanted to taper more slowly, but if I can't find anything except Lortab, I may just GO FOR IT!

How did you afford to buy it?  Were you paying like a dollar per milligram???  Outrageous!!  Yet....we (Mark and I) are still doing it.  We are NOT doing enough to feel it, just enough to avoid feeling like ****!  I don't know if it is just the part of the country that I'm in (Salt Lake City) or if my contact is taking advantage of us.  All of our credit cards are now maxed out and I feel sick when I think of all of the nice things that we could have purchased with that money.  I'm just wishing that it were all over with.  I'm really scared!!!

You give me such inspiration.  I am sure glad that I've found you and my other new friends here on this forum!

Congratulations!  Day 9 is almost here!!!!

[freezing]

by the way, congrats sharon.  i take it u suffer from depression as well?  

do u know how long we will freeze for?  do u know anything that will help?

will detox from other opiates make us freeze? ie., fentanyl or oxycontin or bupenorphine?  thanks again and i am sure u will succeed.

[BLUE501]

Bink, I was getting them prescibed to me for degernerative disc disease. My insurance pays for it which made it sooo much harder. But that was not enough, i started writing my own scipts. The same old story different day.  I am a single mom, 29 yrs old a mortgage broker who took the wrong road. But, it's never to late to change. I AM going to make it to 9 days i guarente that. thanks for the support.
hand tough

be safe
linda

[Esmith28]

I haveno idea why your freezing, but that isnt a shocker I am not too knowledgable of your drugs of choice...have you asked a doctor?? Maybe you can do that...Hope you warm up!!

[BLUE501]

I'm sorry, i don't know what it is your coming off of, but i'm in day8 of a major habit and i still have problems with my temp.
they say it will pass. and i know it will.

keep talking

be safe
linda

[J. E. W.]

I know what your talking about. Im always cold too!!! It seems like I cant get warm. (unless Im having a hot flash)its gotten to the point I kinda like hot flashes now!! They come with my age though!!! Never thought Id like em though!!!! I havent found anything that helps with the freezing though. You take care. Ill be praying for you..          J.E.W.

[unpilled1]

Hey man, just went through all your recent posts. I know you're bummed right now, but you CAN do this. It doesn't seem to be the withdrawal that gets you, but the cravings or wanting once you start to get past the withdrawal ... Am I reading that right? So, you've got to start "fixing" and preparing for that part of your recovery. Do you call in under one doctor's name and DEA# or different one's? Do you call in scripts as the Dr. or as an office staff person? How many pharmacies did you use? Did you acquire the pills from other sources, or just the call-in bit? Lots of questions, I know, but if you are serious about getting clean - REALLY serious (there IS a difference between 'wanting to' & 'willing to'). If the "willing" is truely where you are, you can start by calling the pharmacy and inform them that you (read: "the Dr." or the Dr's staff) have been made aware of some questionable call in scripts for controlled substances and that for the time being there should be a call-back verification on all controlled subst. call-in's. From what you've said, you don't use your own I.D. so they can't go back and track you down + the pharmacy could set themselves up for trouble (from the DEA)if they do try to search out the perpetrator of former scripts. Believe me, they don't want anyone to know that they have filled 'illegal' call-in scripts -- it just invites a nasty investigation by the state and the DEA of THEM. Let me know what's going on REALLY. We all can help. But I agree with FINISHED - you likely don't need inpatient detox to get clean. You just need to come clean with yourself as to why you relapse - that's where your answers are. There are lots of addicts that go through inpatient detox's and come out and use within days. Expensives, short-term inpatient stuff WON'T fix you, buddy. You are a strong guy ... you CAN do this. Read the posts here - virtually ALL of us have relapsed before. There's always a reason why, look for that reason, not for inpatient cure (just my humble opinion)...been there. But I am completing day 22 today.
Take Care, -M

[freezing]

Here's another reaction to withdrawal/detox.  I don't think it's from Naltrexone, but I'll share it.  Along with freezing, I get these constant debilitating sensations, like fingernails on a chalkboard in my back.  Never had them before detox.  Even opiates don't totally make them go away!  (Well, light opiates don't.  Heavy opiates make me warm and fingernails on chalkboard sensations disipate.  I don't know if these problems are from methadone withdrawals from four or five months ago (100 mg), or from present light opiate use for degenerating and bulging cervicals, or hypothalmus problems precipitated by any or all of the above.  Anyone suffer the same symptoms???  (Thanks for the responses you all.)  Anyone have success from fentanyl duragesic and/or bupenorphine??  I cannot stop taking the opiates, but I am not increasing dosages, althought I would love to be able to, but been there and scared to death to go back.  It's so hard not to be constantly distracted by all this, work, family, socially, all suffer so much.  I wish someone could give me some answers!!  I've been to many doctors, to no avail.  Thanks.  Good luck to all. - freezing.

[J. E. W.]

From my experiance Id say stay as far away from those duragesic patches as you can. I was on 50mgs. for amonth or two and the wds. are terible.Of course I cant taper though. Maybe if you can it wouldnt be as bad. They are nice cause you just stick it on and it lasts for 72 hrs.But badddddddddddddd wds.when coming off ct. Good luck my friend.Ill be praying for your releif...             J.E.W.

[Rex1]

It almost sounds like a neurological problems you are suffering through.

Has anyone ever suggested Neurontin to you?

Rex

[freezing]

J.E.W., are the patch w/d's worse than oxy or other opiate w/d's?  how/why?

why can't you taper?  i really appreciate any more insight, b/c i am about to go back to my neck doctor.  my psych/shrink dr. is the one who suggested fentanly duragesic over buprenorphine.

what about buprenex/subutex?

rex, i have tried neurontin, but it did not do anything buy make me ravenously hungry.  maybe i should go back on it.  have you heard any feedback or tried it?

man, i can't take this anymore, wrestless insomnia, freezing, depression.  there's got to be a solution.  how bout moving to australia or switzerland?!!  i think i'm going to join the cia and go to afganistan as a covert op.  nothing to lose, go down for a good cause.... i wish it were that easy.  thanks for the support and continued insights.  well wishes to all.

- freezing

[sharonver]

Freezing-

Any opiate withdrawal usually gives you that freezing cold feeling.  I can't wait for summer I am always cold!!  What helps me temporarily anyways, is a hot-tub if your are lucky enough to have one! My finance' does so  I am in it constantly!!  If not a nice relaxing hot bath or shower.  I drink hot tea & soup that helps too.  Keep your feet warm!  And wear layers of clothing.  At work I dress really warm with lots of layers.

J.E.W.-
Its funny that you mentioned that, I thought that I was the only one that welcomed hot flashes for a change!  I used to hate them, now I don't mind them as much because at least I am not so cold anymore.

Sharon

[J. E. W.]

Freezing,I think those two are alot alike in wds.I dont know about the buf. When I took oxy. No one told me it was time released so who knows how much I had in me in aday.Of course thats what happens when your buying off the street(no directions,do not pass go.Who cares,ect.)Plus you end up broke!!!!                                                       Sharon,Ive had those bad boys for 5yrs.now!I didnt think Id ever welcome them either!! Im always cold too. I do like you said...                                                         Take care my friends..                 J.E.W.

[Creepy n' Crawlie]

Sorry to hear what you are going through freezing, but rest assured you are not alone.  I've been off Duragesic 100mcg patches and MSIR 30mg X 6  for about 3 weeks, give or take and I am beyond cold.  It's not helping that the East River is freezing right in front of my eyes, but it definitely has to be the WDs.  I've had two back surgeries in the last thrree years and have been on some sort or combo of meds, oxy, MSContin, the liquid morphine stuff, and finally Fentanyl/Duragesic pretty much every day over a span of 4 years.  I've been back at work for 6 months but still have been missing my old "legs" so I decided to just say whatever, and not put on another patch a few weeks ago.  I also had the ambition to try the Adkins diet at the same time which was poor planning I'll admit, but the freezing and the fingernails on my spine sensation are the most awful part of this.  I was wondering if my discs had messed up my spine while I was too sonabulent to notice, but after reading your posts, I am sure we are both dancing the same dance.

For everyone else on this board I want to thank you as so many others have for your courage and generosity.  I never had any idea how much hell this would be trying to just go back to "normal" but it ain't easy.  I am certain it would not even be tolerable without the information and sense of support I have found here.  Be peaceful in your minds and bodies.

                              --Creepy

[Bungee7]

Thanks for the response. I just feel out of control. As far as your questions about calling in my own scripts...it really is that easy. The pharmacy never asked for the doctors DEA# ever, and in case they did I had it anyway...all I had to do was call the doctor's office and say I was the pharmacy and the nurse would just give me the DEA#. I wish it wasn't so easy, I try and make excuses and say I only got addicted because it was so easy. But I know it's my own fault, but it's their fault to for making it so damn easy!!! It makes me mad!!! Anyway, thank you all for your caring comments,

-Anthony

[sharonver]

This is a great group of people here, as I am sure everyone here agrees!!  Here is some warm sunshine for ya!!!  Hope this helps to warm you up...

Sharon

[sharonver]

Freezing/J.E.W.

Woops, sorry, I forgot to send some warm sunshine your way too!!!
For everyone that is sooo cold right now... here it is...

Sharon

[FrankVaio]

I'm glad you came to this site to see how many of us there are in recovery. I know you were feeling like a looser for taking pills but pills don't discrimate,,,,,,,, it happens to the best of us. I will hopefully see you NA on thursday an we can talk more about what has to be done. I'm on day 28 CT from taking 160mg of OXY a day so I know how hard it is. I did it at home and basically alone. I didn't know of the thomas recipe then. I suffered through it and don't regret it at all cause if it was to easy I probably would keep going on and off pills. The is noway I'm going through that hell again. Everyday day gets better as time goes buy (on day at a time). I heard the funniest thing at NA the other nite. "Do 90 meetings in 90 day's and if you don't like it we will refund you your misery back" true true true!!!!!The other was "don't give up 5 mins before the mericle happens" meaning if you have to do it (stay clean) 5 minutes at a time.

Well got to go back to work now but I'll talk to you real soon. Give yourself a break and don't get upset. We all will get through this an enjoy life like others do "CLEAN".

Frank

[BLUE501]

Well, for those of you who were with me last night, I MADE IT!!! I'm on day 9. I did not let those so called friends talk me into it. Actually, I just stopped answering the phone. Whatever works. I am so happy that I didn't throw it all away for one night of getting high.

thanks for all of your support
be safe
linda

[J. E. W.]

Glad to hear you made it!!! I dont answer my phone either.I have caller I.D. So when I see who it is I can pick who I want to talk to. Just remember one day at a time my friend.. We can do this. You have a Wonderful Day!!!!! Keep on shining..               J.E.W.

[ladymp72]

I know what you mean blaming the pharmacies that it is too easy. I thought that moving from VA to GA would make a difference but when I got here I realized they had pharmacies here as well :( so I just started all over again. That was almost a year ago. It is too easy to do but I guess they need it to be done for people that really need the meds. The only downsize or maybe it is a good thing the strongest thing you can call in is hydro, so I would always get it in cough syrup form ( less chance of getting caught or ID. Percs and so on you had to have a written script. And as you said getting the DEA# was never a problem I did the same thing just call the Dr's office and tell them I have a script for a controlled substance with no DEA sometimes they would ask for the patients name so I would hang up otherwise they would just spill it out to me. Too simple. I think they need to make a law where if there is a script called in there needs to be a faxed copy sent to the pharmacies, that would certainly cut back on people like us, don't u think?

Michele

[suzieneedshelp]

People it is a felony you know.  All they have to do is check with the Dr's office or need to clear sumfin up and talk to the Dr's office and you are caught red handed!   You come to pick it up and bam.. arrested!
Please please do not risk you life, profession/ carreer (back ground checks), family, home all for that.
Love,
Suzie

[rodewc]

NA? On Thursday? Huh?

[FrankVaio]

Maybe I have the wrong person?????I go to NA with a person who is a teacher and has a problem with his feet and is addicted to ES's. If your name isn't Tim then you have everything in common with someone else. Well maybe you should goto NA and get some support with your addiction. Be strong and you can beat this.

Good Luck

[unpilled1]

Blue501: I'm really proud of you! You are ONE strong woman. Doesn't the power to resist & say NO feel good? It's like you know you're starting to get your life back & have some control. Keep it going!
-M

ladymp: in GA too (Atlanta) & really agree with what you said. Take care & keep posting.
-M

[socalgirl]

I  just have a question about herion w/d.   I was on about day 4 when I had a small relapse...now I am wondering how far this will set me back and if it puts me back to square one.  Also if I slip in a cotton  shot here or  there ( which is mostly water..more for the mental and habit of using the needle and going thru the whole process) how far tghis sets me back.  I still got thru the w/d..hot and cold etc.   I am trying the thomass recipe whcih seems to help by taking xanax( SP?--zanax) to sleep amd relieve pain.   But basicallly am i just making the whole w/d process longer....???
Basically in the past 5 days I have done I have done about 1/2 a gram which considering I used to do anywhere fron  a gram to almost 2 grams a day.   But i  guess my question is how much more or how much longer do you think I have of w/d???  Can anyone out there relate or hass been in the same situation???

Any info or words of incouragement will help...

Also   little off the subject here but why am I  gaining weight snd not losing it like all other junkies?   I mean that's  the one bennnefit  if you're girl   right???( just a little humor in a sad situatuin,,,,,,,,




socalgirl

[45ankickin]

At what point is safe to stop completely, I am taking methadone,
was at 40 mg's a day down to 12.5 mgs a day has taken three months but i am really starting to feel bad all day long now, and wonder if i should just bite the bullet and deal with it. my problem is I can not take time off work. so i have to at least function at an 85% cap. I think that the xanax i was taking to help me sleep is getting to me to i stopped three days ago 2 mills per night stopped cold, so I think this is intensifying my wd's  I really feel like **** and just want to get this over with
would the thomas recipe help me? I really do feel like ****.
thks

[Thomas03]

The recipe is designed for cold turkey detox, not tapering. It may, however, help when you finally stop the methadone. Perhaps you should slow your methadone taper. Is there any particular deadline?

You should never abruptly discontinue Xanax. Benzo withdrawal causes anxiety, fear, insomnia, and may be adding to your ordeal. At the very least, you need to taper the Xanax. Ideally, you should switch now to a long-acting and safer benzo such as Valium and taper on that. Good luck.

Thomas

[rodewc]

Will a drug labeled a hypnotic: ZOPICLONE be equvalent to VALIUM or will it be like XANAX? (as far as use in the Thomas Recipe)

I have noticed the Jewish faith sponsors the forum. Perhaps those who mention Jesus push the envelope with the sponsors. This is imo (in my opinion)

Regardless, unless there is a disclaimer, one should be allowed to speak his mind within the bounds of courtesy.

I urge ANY who are spiritual OR NOT.. to read "Expecting Adam". This is a paperback book (nonFiction), author Martha Beck. The plot is not drug relaated but the subliminal messages are for addicts everywhere. I urge you to witness the Transformation of some Harvard grads in this book, a couple faced with dilemnas of staggering proportions. Though if you read the book's jacket, it sounds depressing. It isnt. It is powerful, insightful, and uplifting.

Any knowlege on Zopiclione 7.5 MGs?

Thanx,
~~

[45ankickin]

thanks I kinda figured that was dumb thing to do, since i have all of those symptoms now i haven't slept in three days, will fix the problem and continue to titrate my self I just have my own time frame to complete my detox just really tired of this, never feeling good.
thanks again

[minime]

Hi.  How long were you on Methadone maintenance?  I'vr heard it is brutal to quit.  How come you decided to get off maintenance?  Did you feel bad when you were taking 40 mgs?  I'm just curious about Methadone maintenance.  I've known some who swear it saved their lives, and then I know others who say it ruined theirs.

[45ankickin]

im scared to death of it, only been on for less than 6 mnths
just need to stop all of it,
but i really am vey scared of this stuff

[minime]

Why do you have to quit?  Are you being shut off or something?  Don't be scared.  Just arm yourself with knowledge, and you'll get plenty of that here.  I'd like to hear a little bit of history though.  Like why are you quitting?  What you got hooked on?  It makes it easier to give advice if you know a little.  If you don't want to say, it's OK too.

[Worldstar69]

How long were you on Methadone for? I had a herion habit for 6 months and was on methadone for 2.5 years after that at 50mgs.  I know exactly what you are going through with the freezing, and the skin crawling. I was kicked off the clinic and had to taper in 21 days, back in November of 2001.  I felt the Freezing for about 2 months after getting off Methadone. It was the worst expearince in my life!  It is the hardest thing to go through especially if you don't get a very slow taper! They recommend a year for each year your were on to taper etc. I didn't have that luxuary, attempted sucide several times, luckly my fiance was there for support even though she was getting off herion. It will subside.  Along with any energy problems. If you were on 100mg/day then you problably would still be feeling some effect form the done.  Heroin has destroyed my life, it is now 2003, I started dope in 1997. Since getting off Done I have relapsed several times, but the detox off of herion is nothing compared to methadone!! I thought I was cured with done, I had a good job, a nice apartment , good clean friends, now what do I have? My fiance' is in jail for 6 months, I am living back at home at 24 years old, my family is fed up with my relapses, only my using friends bother to call. I just got out of detox 2 weeks ago and relapsed on day 6, then went without for 2 days and slipped agian.  I hate it, the boredom, the lonliness, the contstant craving.  I have no more chances with detox centers/rehabs my funding has all run out for a year.  I need to do this for good.  I just wish I could get everything back that I had when I was on the Done, drug- free. On day 3 now and it's not that bad, I am even sleeping.  I hope and pray for you all. This is a life long battle and must be fought everyday. When you fall stand back up!

[hippy]

welcome to the fourm , if you have not gotten a welcome,
my name is michael i 42 and have been off the vikes for almost ayear now, thanks to folks here at the fourm.
i was clean in n.a. for 16 years but befiore i got clean
back in 1984  i was in and out of m.a for 8 years,
so when i finally got clean at the age of 24  after 2 failed marraiges, nurmous arrest's and car accedents. the only thing
i could relate to in the m.a. basic text was the chapter on relapse.i read it every day ,and went to meetings everyday for 5 years,
so i stayed clean ,kept going to meetings . got custdeyof
my 2 kids and my life changed for the better, i moved away from
my old hood and moved out to the suburbs outside od phila.
my kids are are now 20 and 24 and are normal. my daughter is
happly married with a 5 year old son and my son is doing very well in is
1st year at saraycuse, on a full scholor ship.
i remarried and just celabrated 13 years marries last week jan 13.
we just bought a new home  for 250,000.00 out side phily
in the suburbs,
and life is good

peace to you, and keep your head up and stay on the road less
traveled

hippy/////////  michael  keep posting

[45ankickin]

day 4 no sleep, very tired xanax has bad effects when stopped cold, need to increase my methadone  but I wont, I worked to hard to get dowwn to 12.5 mgs to give up now, minime you asked why i am quitting, I need to. i have 4 kids a beautiful wife, a home, a dog and a cat, got hooked for all wrong reasons, lack of knowledge, lost job, bad divorce 6 years ago, never smoked pot or coke ar any of that stuff had knee surgery on both knees at same time, started on lorecets and just escalated, everything else is history, all I know is that I thought I was a strong tough guy, and now i know how really weak i am, but i am fighting this demon, and I will prevail, with a little help,
but sure would like to be able to sleep, does any one know how
long this will  last with out benzo's. I do not want to increase my meth. but dont know if i can hold out much longer Had a really bad night last night.
thanks for listening

[unpilled1]

i really don't know about how long the insomnia thing lasts coming off xanax. i have had a lot of insomnia with opiate withdrawal and staying off them. these are some things i've used to help: Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) is a Rx muscle relaxant that is non-addictive, but very sedating and has helped me most. (don't use Soma - also a muscle relaxer, but IS addictive) Chamomile tea nitely, before bed - don't expect it to work immediately but do drink it every nite and you'll start having improved sleep by the 3rd - 4th nite. Melatonin (preferably in a time-released version) and added in with the chamomile tea can help as well - melatonin will help induce sleep, but doesn't help maintain sleep. I agree that going back up on methadone will just make the long-haul cleaning up longer. Keep asking & looking around here ... somebody surely knows what will help with the xanax insomnia thing forsure.

[freezing]

Worldstar, I am really sorry to hear what you are going through, and I really appreciate your feedback.

There are legal avenues for appeal, Federal laws, that you can take.  Please look into this.  Contact the methadone advocates people.  Check the search engines for these web-sites.  I am sure if you get there support, and check the legal appeals available (you don't need a lawyer), you can get back in the program, if that is your wish.  Of course, methadone is a pretty life time thing, but sounds better than what you are going through.  If there is absolutely no way you can handle the detox/withdrawls, then go up the ladder for appeals.

Good luck and well wishes.  Keep posting for insights and support.  - freezing

[nala]

I just decided to get off methodone cold turkey. I was taking 60 mg. per day for the last 2 years for trigeminal neuralgia. I got to the point to where I could not handle the constipation anymore! I have been off the medicine for about 80 hours now but still am shaking a little and am getting some hot and cold sweats! Can anyone tell me how long it takes to completly leave your system and my constipation to go away?
I feel for all of you and you are all in my prayers. I just want to be normal again and not depend on medication!!!
                       thanks for your suggestions!!

[KAAS]

Fleet, I hope your symptoms have gone away, but if not and you actually get this post, here is some info. on Naltrexone side effects which. I copied verbatim from my consent form for a Naltrexone study I

[Don'tNo]

First Post...Be Gentle!

  Does anyone know of any adverse side effects on body organs/systems and the neurological system from long-term use of pain killers, such as percocets and OCs?  
  Aside from the addiction itself as an adverse side effect, I'm curious to know how it effects your body after long term use.  Thanks in advance for you help!

[afriend]

It,s sad that you should have to say (be gentle) on your first post. There are people here that won't, beat you up! Anyway, If you go to different search engines (google,yahoo,ect) and search (addiction+withdrawal+opiates) there is quite a bit of information out there and may answer some of your questions. Sometimes people don't scroll down this far so if you don't get any help, go up higher on the forum and butt in, its ok, also if you direct your comment to (suzieneedshelp) she's wonderful, and would be glad to help you anyway she could.(Thomas03) if he's out there, is very knowledgeable and will help you.Keep posting!!!

[oxic]

HI, and Welcome.....
I consumed percs for many years, and have now been off them since Aug. 16th/02; so I've pondered/questioned/studied those exact questions you have asked.
I guess there really are several categories like direct effects to organs, related side effects, etc. Clearly the one most people are concerned with when they come here is liver damage from all the tylenol(which applies to you with the percs). A steady diet of 4 grams or more, day after day, of tylenol is when damage to the liver MAY result.
Another organ that is directly effected by long term opiate useage is the brain. I read the transcript of an interview between Bill Moyers and Dr. Steve Hyman(studies addiction and directs the national institute of mental health).

One of Moyers' questions was: "So even though drugs have changed the brain, it can be changed back?"

Hymans' Answer : " I don't think that you can have your brain back just the way it was, but I certainly believe recovery is possible. There are some changes in your brain that may be irreversible, especially the kinds of emotional memories that we talked about, they may really be indelible. But people who have a stroke are able to recover by using other parts of their brain which weren't affected. It seems extreme, but you might think of someone who is addicted almost as if they've had a peculiar kind of stroke, which affects their motivation and self-will."

Additional related effects, of course are things like perpetual stress to the GI-tract(always stopped up, and not flushing many toxins).
These are just some that come to mind, and frequently discussed here.
Hope this is of some use to you.

TAKE CARE

percs

[afriend]

I can see you've done your homework. By the time I typed (with one finger) all that info. it would have been obsolete. ha! ha! Congrads. on being clean that long!!!Thanks for your info.

[oxic]

Thanks for the kind words.

percs

[lisabet]

Hey Percs - great post!  (Maybe there's hope for me yet!)...ai: maybe I'm not "totally" brain dead...smile.
Hope you're doing well.  Love you, Lisabet

[Fleet]

I know it has been awhile, I am now 16 days clean. The Naltroxone was given to me for detox. I went through basically cold turkey.  I was in full blown withdrawal for 1 day and then about 5 days of hell. I had every symptom there was.  But my only drawback now is I can't sleep more than 4 hours at night. Everything else is good, I am feeling strong most days, still taking hot baths and and I have started to eat healthy. I have started counciling and am going to attend NA meetings. I have learned a lot from reading all of the support comments and for me personally, Naltroxone is the way to go. I didn't think I would make it there for awhile, but it seems to get better everyday. So for all of you who are going through this horrible time, hang in there and I hope with the help and support from family, and this forum I can stay the course. Good luck to everyone.
Fleet