Severe depression

[shelliAS]

Hi, I abruptly stopped, then restarted, but at a much lower dose, hydrocodone about 2 months ago.  I was also taking tramodol, but also cut that out completely.  I am now experiencing horrible clinical depression.  For those who are much wiser about this than I, is severe depression something to be expected when stopping/drastically lowering narcos?  I can't see my way out of this (I am seeing a doctor).  Everything looks so hopeless and dark.  This depression came on rather suddenly.  I am terrified it won't end, and almost can't stop crying.  i have no support system.

Thanks,
Shelli  

[shelliAS]

Thank you for the feedback.  I am getting more and more suspicious of tramadol, and inclined to ask my doc about effexor.  I am on Cymbalta and welbutrin, and I am afraid that the welbutrin is contributing to this horrid anxiety that is going along with the depression.

[avisg]

tramadol works as a pain reliever and an ssri antdepressant so many go threw deep depression coming off it. I would discuss with your doctor an ssri AD from what I hear effexor,works the best talk it over with your doctor

[shelliAS]

Thank you for the support everyone.  I am so terrified, and can't stop shaking, and I am on the verge of crying constantly.  I haven't told my husband about the depression, even.  May I hang on to this site for support?  I need a lifeline, I feel like I am hanging off the edge of a cliff by my fingernails.  Gnarly, how long did your depression last?  I am afraid this will last for years.  I can't see my way out.  I am under a doc's care, start PTSD therapy this tuesday.  Thank you all for listening.  I have never felt so alone in my life.  I keep praying and praying, to no avail.

Shelli

[gnarly_1]

HI Shellas.....I think it is the tramadol or lack of it thats causing your depression it has an antidepressant in it and after use for a wile your brain gets use to having that little bit of extra help...you very well may need a new antidepressant to snap out of this
I suffer with bipolar...and just recently went threw one of the worst depressions of my life
it was the first time ever being clean and sober ....I hope to never go to that dark place again...depression is nothing to mess with it can be a huge trigger to use again get help
and get it fast good luck and God bless......Gnarly  

[janet19]

Shelia you will be find. I have been in terrible depressions and found my way back. You are making the right decision going to see doctor. It is always better when you can see this, please call your doctor or go to visit or visit him/her. Severe depressions by starting and stopping hydrocodone. (my drug of choice when using). The depression can be treated. Please Please call your doctor and talk with him and be honest when sharing.

[GoingToMakeIt]

Madtram says it well.
If the depression is really bad, go see your doctor.
If it is bearable, then there are many ways to help with the depression. Getting exercise helps more than you can imagine. 5htp was mentioned, I liked dark chocolate (at least 65
% cocoa) it helps with cravings too. SamE helps too. But if you are taking an anti-depressant, consult your Dr or pharmacist before taking supplements for depression.

[madtram]

I suspect the depression is caused by withdrawal from the antidepressant component of tramadol.  As with effexor, following a taper with tramadol is much gentler on the brain but as you are already off, (which is a great thing), you may want to talk to your md about trying an antidepressant to help restore your brain chemistry.

On the non prescription side, 5htp or St John's wort can work equally as well.

Unfortunately what you are experiencing is common with tramadol & if you stopped the drug only recently, you may  find that the depression passes on on its own.

Best wishes,

M