Ultram Addiction

I too am addicted to Ultram.  I quit 2 times and have been seeing a therapist.  I had abused prescription painkillers than I had a baby and I knew I was done with these addictions.  However, I had a headache one night and my father had ultram for his arthritis, he said they are new (1996) and they were not a narcotic.  That was it... here I am 7 years later still fighting this demon.

Now I have 3 children under 7 years old, a full time job and my husband is out of work.  It is so difficult to even think about quitting but every so often I start to get sick of the monkey on my back.  People have said it gives you a feeling of well-being and energy, she is right.  My self-esteem has been compromised and I can't help but hate myself for what I am doing.  The energy part is the worst.  Trying to keep up with the day to day husle/busle of everyday working and kids at 43 years old is too much sometimes and the ultram helps keep me afloat.

I thought of weaning off, that didn't work, I quit altogether until my dad gave me ultram again.  My question is how about acupuncture?  I don't have 3 days to chill out and withdrawal from this medicine.  My kids 2 3year twins are constantly in need of my attention.  
Without the kids, I could do it for sure, I have in the past.

I am really finding this harder and harder to quit and my tolerance has forced me to take more (30 a day) pretty bad...

Please let me know what you think about the acupuncture and how I would go about doing it.  I called a place that will charge $40 a visit.                        Thanks for help. Ldjohn

[grappler]

Hey I saw your post about the Ultram I wish you well on your endeavor to quit if you need help as you're going through this feel free to post. I will try to help as will everyone else I am not going to post my story all over again but you can read below but in a nut shell I am a world class wrestler/fighter who was in an accident and got hooked on these terrible drugs and now I will help anyone who needs it.  Don't lose your perseverence you can get through this it'll be hard but you can do it.  Also I don't know if you saw "The Smashing Machine" on HBO that's me all the way I can relate to that 110%.  Well keep me/us on your progress.  Good Luck

Grappler

[pharmdee]

30 ULTRAM A DAY IS A SERIOS HEALTH HAZARD..THIS IS A VERY TOXIC DOSE..YOU BY NO MEANS SHOULD ACCEPT ANY EXCUSES NOT TO GO INTO TREATMENT AND,OR..SEE AN ADDICTION SPECIALIST.I AM A 5TH YEAR PHARMACY STUDENT AND I THINK THE DEA NEEDS TO MAKE ULTRAM(TRAMODOL)A SCHEDULE DRUG...PLEASE SEEK HELP...THIS IS YOUR LIFE WE ARE TALKING ABOUT..WAY MORE IMPORTANT THAN ANY DRUG..AND YOUR FAMILY NEEDS YOU TO BE AROUND.
I HOPE YOU SEEK HELP AND I WILL PRAY FOR YOU..

[pharmdee]

ALSO JUST WANTED TO ADD THAT THERE ARE NEW DRUGS USED FOR TREATING OPIOID ADDICTION..TO HELP THE WITHDRAWL (withdrawal) SYMPTOMS..ONE IS CALLED SUBOXONE..CHECK IT OUT AND PLEASE SEE AN ADDICTION SPECIALIST.

[dancinginthedark]

Wow, quite a post.  I imagine you are under enormous stress with 3 young children & your hubby out of work.  However, pharmdee succintly said what I didn't know how to say earlier when I read your post.

30 a day is a serious problem but NOT insurmountable.  There are enough ppl on this board who have prevailed over same & could   give your usage a serious run for its money.  But make no mistake about it:  Getting off ultram is going to be tough & to not have 3 days to go thru withdrawal is greatly under-estimating the inherent difficulty in getting off this drug.  The fact is, 3 days would hardly touch the withdrawals you are going to experience.

But do it you can.  You need determination, a game plan, an understanding of what addiction is all about, to know what to expect while withdrawing, family support & the support of other addicts.

I have never been a group gal.  But once I looked the monster in the eye & saw it was me, I came to this board & it has helped me tremendously & I'm now almost 6 wks. clean of beaucoup doses of codeine.  

I'm curious as to what your doc says about your usage, although I'm assuming you must be getting extra from supplementary sources since I can't imagine a doc prescribing 900 tabs a mo.  If you're shopping around, you're in good company on this board.

You'll likely get a lot more useful advice later from others on this board but I wanted to welcome you, tell you you CAN do it but urge you to do it right.  You've taken the first step by coming here.  It's a series of steps, for all of us, even those long clean.  

We're all pulling for you & post as often as you need

Dancing in the Dark

[minime]

I know it SEEMS like you can't take the days off that you need to detox, but if I can do it, anyone can.  Your husband and the rest of your family and friends will just have to pick up the slack.  You really need to tell the people that you care about what is going on, and I think you'll be surprised at the support you receive.  I'm sure your father wouldn't have given you any pills if he knew what was going on right?

If you feel that you really cannot detox right now or if you do detox and fall off the wagon, Suboxone might be an alternative.  It can be used as a maintenance drug, and it has saved my life.  I've been on it a couple months, and I can't tell you the difference it has made.  Plus, it doesn't come with the ball and chain that being on Methadone maintenance does.

You do have to be careful though, because the addict in you will tell you you need more pills.  I have to use a lot of willpower to take as prescribed, even though if I were to take more it wouldn't do anything for me.  You should start looking for an addiction specialist in your area, and ask him/her about Suboxone if it sounds like something that interests you.

We can do many things we don't think we can.  I cannot say it enough - tell your family and friends about this.  Let them support you.  You will need that. Good luck.

[motox4fun01]

I don't know if you guys remember who I am so let me refresh your memories a bit:
I was here about 6 months ago at the begining of my first withdrawl (withdrawal) from opiates. At that time I was coming off a habit, which had progressed over the course of about 18 months.
My abuse began after a motorcycle accident which left me with a broken foot and a later wreck, which dealt me an almost complete tear of my left ACL. I was 29 at the time of my accidents and on March 7th I will turn 32. The first withdrawl (withdrawal) was BAD! So bad that I said I would never go back to using again. I was a Registered Nurse and had come very close to getting caught nabbing drugs on a few occasions. Well, needless to say I ate those words. I was clean for almost 2 months. I remember thinking how dumb I was for risking my CAREER and in the process throwing away my life. I was so happy to be free from the evils of opiate addiction.
Here I am 4 days from my 32nd birthday and on my 4th day of a cold turkey withdrawl (withdrawal). The difference this time is that I got CAUGHT! I was caught taking IV Demerol from a hospital. I thought I was too slick to get caught, but I DID.
The State Board of Nursing gave me the opportunity to seek treatment and keep my license, but the hoops I was going to have to jump thru for the next 3 years seemed overwhelming and when I got the packet from the board 2 weeks ago, I just put it away and missed the deadline to enter treatment. Basically, I threw everything away. I rationalize this behavior by keeping in my mind that I never wanted to be a nurse anyway, which is true. I just sometimes wonder if I am taking the easy road out.
The withdrawl (withdrawal) is much different this time. Yesterday was the worst with aches and pains in my legs and lower back. It seems so much worse this time. I hope day 5 will be the begining of the end for my LAST withdrawl (withdrawal). I guess I had to lose everything in order to see the light. My relationships with everyone around me have all but disappeared. I see myself as difficult to get along with and almost completely self centered. THIS IS NOT WHO I AM.
I guess I am just typing to get things off my chest and to say that this is a hell of alot of pain to go thru for a damn DRUG!
Thanks for listening,
          James

[Bodymechanic]

I can't provide you with anything that is solidly scientific but I have know quite a few people who have tried acupunture for addiction.  The results have been mixed.  Some thought it was very helpful, other thought it was useless.  Unforutunately, it did nothing for me. You might want to try what minime has suggested and look for suboxone.  If you live in Europe, it is available with any doctor.  In the USA only licence doctors can prescribe it and usually only after jumping through some hoops.  I started on ultram over a year ago which triggered the whole addiction cycle again until I ended up on buprenorphine(suboxone)

[Thomas03]

Those more learned than I have said that suboxone is only available as a 5-day detox and subutex isn't even on the horizon despite being approved by the DEA. I'm surprised that the DEA could find time to police buprenorphine, considering how busy they are busting cancer doctors and chronic pain patients. Those agents have to get up pretty early in the morning to make sure all those tiresome terminal patients die in agony the way they should. What do you say, guys, how 'bout us taking up a collection for all those under-paid, over-worked DEA agents? After all, what would we do without them? (Better not answer that.)

Idjohn, pharmdee is right: 30 Ultram a day is a toxic dose by anyone's standards (even mine). You may think you're too busy to take time off for detox. After you've seizured from an Ultram OD you'll undoubtedly find the time. Better to find that time now. A mom in the middle of a drug-enduced seizure isn't much use to her kids, especially if she's behind the wheel at the time. At the dose you're on, this can happen without warning. Imagine the consequences ...

Thomas

P.S. Hi Spanky!

[mrmichael67]

In Europe, he could probably get straight Subutex.  I do know other countries do use Subutex.  Our FDA would only approve it if it had naloxone in it.  The Subutex is only for a few days, if it ever gets a release date.  I wouldn't be surprised if it never gets released.  They probably figure if patients can get along with Suboxone, then why even put Subutex out there?  I would say a move to schedule IV would be in order, if that were to happen.

[theGolden1]

I understand how you feel about "energy" loss. I have heard from quite a few people about ultram and they all say they can't "function" without it. In fact, that was the main reason I decided to do an extremely slow taper. I WILL get off of this devil drug ... but with minor symptoms. I guess the thing that turned me off was the realization that I was turning into a mechanical woman. I am missing out on my own life. I didn't have the sensitivity and feelings that I normally have. I was planning to switch to vicodin (to step down from ultram) until I came here and started reading. Now I have a healthy fear of perscription drugs. It can happen to anyone. As far as what to do ... I think "Dancing in the Dark" said it all. If you are 43 you may have some hormonal changes happening. If you get the right medication, you won't have to take so much. Also ... listen to Thomas about the seizures. It's true. This is a dangerous drug. You are smart to reach out and make friends here. I know you can recover. Just take it slow ... one day at a time, first things first ... easy does it ...keep it simple ... ***@****

[afriend]

Everyone here has great advice for you. Take in all you can. Suboxone has been recomended by many here and I also think it is good advice, tho from what I hear, it's pretty spendy if you don't have insurance, or your insurance doesn't cover it. Keep posting and let the people here support you. It will help you thru the tough times! With your heavy dosages tho, DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL, Ultram impairs your abilty to breathe and alcohol intensifies this effect! That drink with the amount your taking, (Ultram) may be your last breath!!!Please seek help and for the time being, at least taper your dosage! As others have said, don't think that in 3 or 4 days of detox things are going to be over. You said you've quit before and you can do it again! You got a tough road ahead, but you can do this,if not for you, for your children!!!! Let us know how your doing....Love, hugs, friends...afriend.....

[dancinginthedark]

Heavens, did Golden1 hit the nail on the proverbial head about our age & hormones.  As I always say, hormones 'r us...:-) (I'm 42).

I don't hold much stock in most anything Rousseau said but one quote has long been a favorite & bodes well for all of us.

My life is not in the past
It is before me.

Stay connected to us & know we are all there for you, perhaps because we've all been there.

Hang in there because you are going to get through this and when you do, you're going to feel utterly fabulous physically and emotionally.

Best,

Dancing in the Dark

[afriend]

And yes, Listen to Thomas, IMO, he's the Jerry Garcia of the GREATFUL DEAD here! But he doesn't have any formaldahide in him!!!No disrespect to any deadheads out there!!!...afriend...

[dancinginthedark]

I'm curious why every time I've tried to post a question I've been unable to.  It's now 4:30am PST & our allottment is already full for the day, yet nothing is showing up au courant for today.

I confess that I often pull these all-writers & the times I've tried to post to no avail, have always been about this hr.

Am I missing something?  I go to "Post a Question".  Am I doing something wrong? I am a blonde after all.  

I do think it's terrific of them to always have that $15. for a question option available.  I mean, really, really.

Any ideas???

Dancing.....

[dancinginthedark]

Incoming!!!!

[dancinginthedark]

Thanks for the tip, Sharon!  It's not like I often desire to post a question but the 5 or so x I've tried, has been a major bust.  I did try & try again but back to back, not later in the day.  

Again, thanks & wonderful to officially meet your acquaintance.

Best,
Dancing...

[peaz]

Hope I got your handle right. I think I do remember your posting before.  When you think about it in hindsight, are you really surprised that you pushed the envelope to the point of getting caught??  We're ADDICTS, afterall.  But I remember  going throught the same wrestling match in my head:" WHY am I doing this?  I'm going to get caught!! WHY don't I stop when I know I'm going to lose everything?? WHEN will this stop??  Of course, there followed the defining moment of lucidity:  This will all stop when I GET CAUGHT> And ONLY then."
  And, James, sure enough, I got nailed.  I was a pharmacy technician, stealing  my daily wares from the shelves at will...The reason I am writing is because I DID get into the three-year rehab/probation period that  you didn't.  It's a rigorous som'*****.  Random drug screens that test for EVERYTHING--requiring me to call in EVERY day except holidays and Sundays for three years....But the end result is, my certification won't be taken away  because it won't be reported to the board of pharmacy and I won't have a felony on my record.  Like you, MANY times I have told myself that this isn't my dream come true, and I lose sight of exactly WHY I am putting myself through all this.  I'm sure a part of it is a type of subconscious  punishment/atonement sentence...In short, I'm tempted to bag it all and just keep on careening through life haphazardly, with no real goals of recovery at hand. What's so bad about not having a clue??? LOL If you  are having second thoughts, I would encourage you to get in touch w/ your Health Professional Rehab group that you were dealing w/, as I think you will be surprised at how  compassionate they can be.  If not, at the very least, I would recommend getting  some counseling to come to terms w/ your addiction; to resolve the incongruities you have w/ your self-image vs. your "public persona".  You can reclaim yourself, James!  I wish you well.  If I can help in any way, please let me know.  Peaz

[Thomas03]

Hello, James. Sorry I missed your post yesterday. Are you withdrawing from Demerol? Or a range of whatever narcotics you could grab? This might explain why the WD is worse. It's also worse, I think, because of your bust. Guilt, anger, shame, self-hatred -- all are killers. I don't know if there is anything I could add to peaz' excellent post, other than this: if you finally decide you want to stay in nursing, is there still some way you can recover your license?

I believe that before you can reclaim your life, you must forgive yourself. That doesn't mean you let yourself off the hook. The responsibility will always be yours. But what's done is done. What would help you right now is to find some AA and/or NA meetings. I'd suggest from open AA meetings to start. Just go there. You may understand intelectually that you are not alone in being an addict, but what you need now is to experience some fellowship with other addicts. It will help you to do right by yourself instead of inflicting more self-punishment. Self-loathing and shame will only lead you back to drugs. Let us know how you're doing.

Thomas

[dancinginthedark]

James,

I have no medical or scientific background like peez, nor the inherent wisdom of Thomas but I wanted to add just one thought.

Peez said it all so well about wanting to get caught, the reasons etc. but I have to wonder:  Could there be something subconbscious within that acknowledges the only way to cease & desist is by being forced to?  If so, what better way than to push the envelope, fully aware of the possible repercussions  until you are caught, your life hits the bottom of the barrel & you are FORCED to stop?  At this juncture, do you really have any choice but to quit?

Just a thought!  We're all pulling for you.

Dancing...

[Thomas03]

Fact is, we just don't like Canadians ... After all, Canada hasn't been pulling it's weight regarding its national murder rate by gun, making the USA look like a violent society. Violent, us? Is it just that you don't have enough guns up there? Because we have plenty to go around plus spares. So, get with it Canada! Learn to love the smell of gunpowder in the morning.

Judy, I believe they only allow one question per day so Dr. Horvath doesn't freak out. Poor guy's hanging by a thread ...

I liked your Rousseau quote. Succinct *******, wasn't he? Just don't get carried away. He was French, ya know. If you find you just can't help yourself, we'll send a de-programmer from the Just Say No to Rousseau Foundation to check in on you. And I hear the de-programmer is a sexy guy ... hey, double trouble!

Thomas

[sharonver]

I have found that it is just a hit or miss situation!!  Some days they allow more questions than other days. And they will say they are full but keep trying because they still accept questions later in the day when it says that, I've tried it. I guess it all depends how busy they are.

Sharon

[Esmith28]

################

[theGolden1]

Quitting ultram is like quitting an antidepressant AND an opiate at the same time. Read about stopping paxil and the symptoms. That is why it must be tapered very, very slowly. No shock waves.
Before beginning the taper, start taking a regular vitamin B, some codliver oil(A&D) vit E 200 and coral calcium. The coral includes 72 trace minerals. Extra water is a must. We need to rinse out the system. A regular routine of fresh air and mild excersize. Don't even start tapering unless you have something for sleep ... if needed. Plan everything ahead of time. If you go slowly ... you won't even notice anything. I get a back ache at night and I use the heating pad. Then it's time for sleep. I take the ambien and crash. Tommorrow is another day closer to being clean and free .... go easy, pamper yourself ... baby yourself. Soon it will be over ... and remember, "nothing good comes easy" ... Goldie

[squirrel1970]

I certainly dont mean to belittle anyones addiction, so please dont take this the wrong way. I am just curious; how can one be addicted to Ultram? I didn't think this medicine was a narcotic, nor did it give you any sort of "euphoria" which is what most people become addicted to. Am I wrong? thank you.

[grappler]

Man is this guy wrong.  Haven't you read all the postings, this drug is super addictive I can't even begin to start to tell you how addictive this drug is.  Like I said in my posting I've been on Morphine, Demerol, Hydrocodone all that **** and nothing has been as hard to get off of as this stuff (Ultram).  Contrary to popular belief. I mean really "Don't let the smooth taste fool you." This stuff is heavy duty.

Can anyone else concur?

[theGolden1]

Check the thread below entitled "Say No to Ultram" ...

[Yo Tony]

I've heard lots of people talk about Ultram as a proverbial "wolf in sheep's clothing." Doctors like it because it's a non-narcotic and the government won't hassle them. But when I used it, it did relieve the pain and gave me a sense of well being. Unfortunately, it also set off an interminable ringing in my ears that caused my doctors to yank me off it.

Some people have said they get depressed coming off it. Is this depression related to withdrawal or the fact that it was no longer providing the sense of well being?

I have chronic pain that builds all day. Last night I took one and a half Percocets and the pain was still bad. I got very depressed, though, and usually find that Percocet has this effect. Is this common?

Thanks!

[g.g.]

I too have found that the opiates either make me cheerfull or depressed!I'm on day 3 of ct. wds.from vicodin!This is my who knows attept!From the amount of pain your in you might need to go to an addictinaligest(SP)!It sounds like its not going to go away anytime soon.And sometimes we need the meds. just to function!In my case I just abuse them so am better off without them.I can function with the pain I get,but you dont seem like you can.Please ley me know if I can help in anyway.And just keep posting people here will eventually answer you.There are some wonderful people here with alot of knowledge.   Jerri

[Thomas03]

yes to all three of your questions. An aspect of opiate withdrawal is a depressed and anxious state of mind. And I've heard many people on oxycodone (Percs and OxyContin) complain about depression while using it. It's somewhat of a paradoxical effect as opiates generally have a pronounced anti-depressant action. If you get a sense of well being initially and only later feel depressed, it may be a kind of let-down effect. You might benefit from a time-release pain med such as OxyContin or MSContin (morphine). At least with one of these, your mood would probably be stabalized and you'd get consistent pain relief. The MSContin seems to cause less psychological addiction than OxyContin.

Ultram's chemistry apparently makes it a non-opioid drug, but it interacts with the same type of brain receptors as opioids and opiates. I've also experienced ringing in my ears from Ultram. Of course, I was taking several times the recommended dose. Luckily, I quickly made myself so sick that I never wanted anything to do with the stuff again!

Thomas

[hyjack]

I totally understand your need to do this quickly and quietly with your circumstances.

My advice, first and foremost, is to seek out an addictionologist.  You can go to a website called ASAM and find one in your area.  They will undoubtedly give you a treatment plan that suits your needs.  I would ask about Suboxone, however, you will want to stay clean while taking this med.  They will inform you of all the details.

Your current dose is very high and dangerous, but I've seen worse.  You are at an extrememly high risk of permanent liver damage at the level you are at.  You must take action quickly, if not for yourself, for your young ones.  The thought of a seizure may be a reality if you keep on.

To avoid any harsh cold turkey withdrawals, the addictionologist will work with you and help you, without you having to disclose to many people your problem.  I do think it would be in your best interest to inform your husband.  Hopefully he will be very supportive and then will be there for you when you really need his support because he will understand what is happening.

If you need more personal support, feel free to email me at ***@****.  I can help you find a doc in your area that specializes in addiction.

[ldjohn]

Thank you for all the advice and constructive criticism.  I am calling a doctor to see about this suboxone and how to be treated.  My only concern is how to live without the ultram.  My feelings of well being and energy and the guy who mentioned it as an antidepressant like drug is sooo right on that quitting isn't going to be as hard as staying off it.  It is so easy to get now with the Internet that in the past, I could only get from the doctor so it's like drinking, the liquor stores will only be a block away all the time.

Please let me know any suggestions on how to treat the problems of staying off and how all of you are doing it.  It is a great encouragement reading others stories and now I don't feel so isolated.  

Thank you again and I'll keep posting to update.
ldjohn

[lisa1466]

Scared, scared, scared.  That's all I can see to think everytime I take another Ultram.  I am 37 years old and have been on Ultram for over 2 years now.  I'm very scared, but I am trying so hard to get off this drug.  I love it and I absolutely hate it! I have tried several times to go a couple of days without it and I get such anxiety, worry, the chills, paranoia, forgetfulness, insomnia something horrible, etc., that I just think well, if I just take 1 or two a day, I can beat this thing.  I CAN'T DO IT. I've been addicted to xanax before and I remember the awful way I felt.  My body hurt so bad and yet I let nobody know what was going on.  I just said it was a bad flu.  Sure it was! It was a month after I kicked xanax that I started taking Ultram.  I have three children: ages, 16, 7 and 5.  My husband will have a huge fit if he finds out that I am addicted to the Ultram.  He does not take pills and "preaches" to me about taking anything, even over the counter meds! He has no toleration and no compassion and I know he will not listen if I go to him and say I need help.  I know it.  He also drinks more than a 12 pack a day, which exacerbates the situation and makes me take more pills to escape my misery.  I work full time, I take care of my mother and grandmother (Power of Attorney for both!) and raise three kids.  How can I get out of this cycle? It seems that everytime I get upset, I just take another one.  Sometimes, I forget if I took one or two or what, and then take another one on top of that! I get confused and very forgetful and fear I could lose my job.  I was thinking of detox, but how do you go about that with a full time job, a husband that will only preach the words I told you so?, on top of screaming at me, because that's all he does to me, take care of three children and my mother and grandmother?  I've got to get off of this drug.  I cannot function normally.  I am like a robot.  If I take the Ultram, I feel fine.  I can conquer anything (euphoria).  If I don't, then I'm miserable, depressed and can't seem to function normally.  I just want to be my old self.  Why was I fine before it and now I can't function without it?  I can see the aging process too.  I don't want to look old and worn out by the time I'm 40.  I really need some suggestions and fast.  I can't stop crying and who do you turn to for help, if not your own spouse?  I know there are self help groups, but I'm so ashamed of myself for letting myself get this far gone, I need some suggestions from people that have been in this situation.

[ldjohn]

I see we have alot in common though my husband doesn't drink. His habit is smoking but he too does not take any pills.  We do have much stress like you but your husband has no room to talk.  I told my husband I will try to quit taking these (started using for migraines)if he quits smoking.  I wonder if you posed that same question to your husband.

I am seeking many for the same reasons.  Quitting seems impossible.  I take 25-30 a day and have been on them for 7 years so don't feel too bad.  I am taking Goldies advice and beginning to wean off.  She said some good things (look in the thread for her name).  She makes me feel like I can do it.

One reason I take them besides for headaches is to keep a positive outlook for all in my family. My husband is out of work as you read and he is getting down about it.

I would like to keep taking these but reduce them down to your dose.  Your dose is not bad.  You can take up to 8 a day according to instructions.  

This suboxone I think would be used to get off Ultram but you probably have to go to a dr.  I have a dr but I am afraid to call just yet.  It will never be the right time.

None of my business but your relationship plays a big role in taking ultram.  I feel tired, uninterested and stress and for my husbands' sake and sake of my marriage I lean on these ultrams.  I have been taking them for every aspect of my life.

Please update me on your situation and maybe together we can do it.  I hope this helps alittle.  Goldie said keep posting, it can help you get through it.  She is really nice.

Good luck,
Lisa (ldjohn)

[lisa1466]

Oh yes, Ultram is very, very addictive! It does give you an euphoric feeling.  You feel better and it actually gives you a lift.  There are people that do not like it.  I hated it at first, but thought I'd give it a little time before going back to the doctor.  Then I started liking it and that was pretty much it for me.  I didn't think it was addictive either, especially since the doctor said it wasn't, but one time I took too many and ran out before it was time to fill my prescription again and it was awful. I started getting the flu-like symptoms, the cold sweats, depression, nauseau, crying, couldn't function normally and I couldn't go to work.

[sadie5]

I really need help.  I have been taking tramodol pain and over these 7 months, it has gotten unbelievably addictive.  I am 22 years old, and I am commited to stopping.  I hate the drug and hate the way it makes me and hate everything about it.  I usually average about 6 a day, but the last week I have tapered to five, then three.  I havent had many issues exept for the sleeping.  But if I keep tapering off like i am doing, will I just go insane and have horrible withdawl symptoms if I stop after the 4 days of taking a half?  

[mr buff]

I too am addicted to ultram.  I started taking them about 6 yyrs ago due to a massive ankle injury.  I started small like everyone else and was up to about 18 a day!  I'm now down to about 5 a day.  I will make it as I don't have any other choice.  It's hard and every time I want to take another pill, I look at a picture of my kids and STOP.  I then get on my bike and ride it around my neighborhood.  I tell you what else has helped me...I recently caught the flu (not from WD) and while I was feeling like death, I didn't have any craving for Ultram?!!! Another thing is a great spouse and I have one of the best.  I can tell her I'm having WD's and she will do anything to help me. Right now I left my house for 3 weeks (vacation time) to a hotel and I don't have anyway to refill my med, so I have to quit!  Something that is bothering me from all the reading...after the wd's it's harder to stay off the Ultram?  How can this be?  I would like to think that once the WD is gone, I'm home free right?  One of my biggest issues is the sapping of the brain and the fact that I can't sleep!  I don't want to introduce any other meds to my system. Few questions in closing; once I taper down to one pill aday, can I stop?  If I still get wd's how long will it last. And the most important question, has anyone quiet for a month without WDs and still wanted to go back?
Thank you for the support.
P.S the lady that has a hubby drinking 12 pk a day that doesn't have a job and doesn't support you?!!!! Why are you keeping him around?

[gerald p]

I have been addicted to so many drugs in my life including ulttram. And it is the hardest drug I have ever tried to get off of. I think the reason you will miss them is that it is the most presciped medicine
for pain and doctors don't have a clue , and you know you can get more anytime you want. That is why I am having such a hard time to and the wd are the worst. How long dose the withdrawals last??? I pray for all of us , because God is the only one that can give us the will to quit.
                         God bless you all,

[JDJC]

I am new to this site but it is a first step.  My story is long and I won't go totally into it, but I have been hooked for 12 years and take over 30 a day.  I lost my marriage and alsmot my daughter by spending every pennyto order it on-line.  I hate that it is so easy to get.  That really needs to be addressed by the DEA.  Anyway, I am wondering if anyone could suggest how to tapper off this.  I have gone cold turkey 2 times before in-patient and I just cannot do it again.  I can't leave my job since I am now divorced.  I am hoping that tapering will be the best way.  I am wondering if I should do like 4 every 4 hrs on day then 3 every 6 hrs. and so on.  I have 150 left.  Any advice would be apprecaited.  I have no family excpet my 7 year old daughter so this is my only support.If I do not do this I am not going to make it.  I am to that point so this is going to work.  I am determined. Thanks to anyone with advice and comforting words.  I will be here often reading the forms so thank you and God bless.

JDJC

[FLaddict]

This thread's start date is very old so it may get overlooked.. you should click on back to forum under this post and then click post new question. that will allow you to start your own post so that it is seen and members can give you advice.. these older posts get overlooked for newer ones started today or yesterday... I would hate for you to not get the advice you need..

[JDJC]

Thank you so very much!  I will do that right now

[mlconnell]

have been taking Tramadol for teeth pain for about 1 year now. It started when I had a cyst on my testicle and the doctor prescribed me Ultram. I loved them the minute I first took them. I really am addicted to them and am up to about 1000mg a day. (20 Pills). I'm taking them 5 at a time 4 times a day. I just went through 200 in a little less than 2 weeks. My problem is that I croiss the border into Mexico and I can buy them there at the pharmacies for $28.00 for a bottle of 100. I bought another 200 today for $58.00 and some change. I keep trying to taper but I just can't seem to follow the schedule. I have been through this withdrawl (withdrawal) and it is a living hell for me. I've been through it more than a dozen times. You would think I would have learned by now ! Anyway I just wanted to share my 2 cents with everyone. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. I've just been praying to GOD asking for help because I've become powerless over these poison pills.

[ura21]

im stuck in a cycle with a chronic illness... i would get a break from the pain and ease up on the ultram only to go thru the withdrawals which arent nice only for the pain to return then start over until the there was no point in stopping.. the pain isnt going to go but i would like to know does taking a lot of ultram/ tramadol have any long term damaging effects or can it be potentially fatal in high doses... i remember reading somewhere that u could live on heroin in a controlled enviroment (this isnt my next path of action but thought maybe its topical)

[showey]

can youoverdose to death on ultram

[ltothejay]

i just wanted to post something regarding this terribly addictive drug. i won't go into my story because it's long and similar to others' stories. after 3 years of battling an addiction with ultram, i am finally well into the recovery process and i have some tips to try for those who feel like they have tried everything to get off of this drug (and have not succeeded). first, you MUST have the desire to get better, and you MUST be committed to stick with your decision. that is so important in the recovery process. then, you have to somehow taper off of the drug in order to aleviate the withdrawal symptoms. i had my dad regulate how much i was taking and keep track of when i was taking it. he hid the drug from me so that i would not be able to sneak more. it took about 9 days to taper off (which may vary, depending on how much you take per day). i still dealt with many withdrawal symptoms and had such horrible anxiety that many times i wanted to curl up and die. just take it ONE DAY at a time. just one day. don't think about the future. i was so angry with each day that passed that i didn't have the drug in my system that it would **** me off when my family told me how well they thought i was doing. however, day by day i started to feel better...physically and emotionally. once you are off of this drug for at least 5 days i promise you will too. you just have to get to that point. in the meantime, check out your local narcotics anonymous chapter and go as often as needed. something about those meetings helps me control my addiction- if just for that day. find something that soothes and calms you and stick with it. whether it's NA, counseling (which i recommend no matter what, which will help you stick with your recovery), church, exercise, going on a vacation, etc. it sounds silly, but i swear to you it's true. once you get over that big hump of coming off the medicine, you will feel fantastic. withdrawal is the hardest part. then talk with a counselor you trust who deals with addiction and you are well on your way to recovery. if anyone would like to email me just for someone to talk to, i'm not sure if this forum will let me post my email, but it's: ***@****. sometimes it helps just to be able to relate to someone else with the same problem. i wish you all the best of luck in your recovery. it's certainly the hardest thing i've ever had to do.

[stevelandia]

My friends, addiction is not a punishment or a defect in character or a fall from grace with God...  it's a disease pure and simple.  You wouldn't stop your insulin cold turkey or your anti-psychotic medication.  You would taper slowly off and or find a less harmful substitute for the useless or unwanted side-effects of the medication.
I think we feel like we somehow deserve to suffer a horrible (even life threatening) detox and withdraw because we are sinful or bad people because of our propensity to self-medicate with drugs that work well on our painful symptoms, be it chronic pain, anxiety, or simply a lack of pleasure or love in our life.  As human beings we are problem solvers by nature and  in this society we are taught to be individualist and self sufficient to the core.  Are we not?
  I think it's highly (no pun) likely that many of us will become addicted to something or other during our life times.  It is amazing the number of learned elderly folk who are dependent on prescription medication.  Degenerate drug fiend grandmas and grandpa's corrupting our nursing homes across the country. The outrage!
     My point is that there are very effective medications which are made to alleviate withdraw symptoms and, contrary to popular belief, are widely available and quite affordable.  There is new medication to combat cocaine addiction and others to treat long-term cravings.  Suboxone and Bubrenorphine can easily alleviate opiate withdraw when started just as symptoms kick in.  Methadone is commonly prescribed as a pain med and is very inexpensive. It's not just for junkies anymore.
    Most Pharmacies carry all three of these medications and they can be purchased with most insurance with no more stigma than buying your favorite birth control.  The problem lies with us stigmatizing ourselves as addicts and therefore not worthy of proper interventions to ease the tremendous suffering of being active in our addictions.  We feel somehow that we will "remember" the suffering of withdraw and therefore be deterred from ever using again.  We then have atoned our sins and are ready to prostrate ourselves before our loved ones to beg their forgiveness and to accept us as martyrs and heroes for our cause.  New men and women. Might as well swear to God to never use again and become a drug counselor while your at it. Well it doesn't work that way.  If it did we wouldn't drink after the first time we got sick from it.  We wouldn't use when we strarted to get sick from not having any more heroin or vicodin.  We wouldn't be addicts.  
   I strongly believe that every person is worthy of forgiveness and another chance.  We need more than one.  Again, we are addicts in a feel good culture surrounded by booze and TV ads introducing us to new and fabulous drugs to cure anything that ails us.  Just ask your doctor, they say... The fact is, Opioid agonist drugs without euphoric side effects are more widely available than ever.  AT the following site you enter your zip code and you will have a list of prescribing doctors who have a harm reduction philosophy and can help you with your addiction.  http://www.turntohelp.com/physician_locator/Default.aspx?found=no

Addiction is a disease that requires a specialist to treat properly.  Beware of ethical judgements from care providers and find a professional who can help you with completely appropriate and effective medication.  

[Calzy]

What was your drug of choice? How long did you use and what did you use to get clean?

[mak36]

Like everyone else here I have taken tramadol for a long time stemming from a long opiate addiction problem. They are cheap and anyone can get them on the internet. The uniqute story I have is I go through w/d about once a month or so. I order a bunch then run out and dont order more for a week or two. I actually think my body has become accustomed to the w/d because I just took 200 in less than 3 weeks and quit CT and it doesnt seem and bad and some of the other times I took more. I dont know if this is possible or not to build a tollerance for WD. I am not really sure who to talk to about it. My parents know I take but not exactly when I am on it or not.  It really is sad coming back to the computer every five minutes to check on the update of my order for more pills to see if its been shipped or not you know.  The worst part has to be I think about it all the time.  I can go a month without taking any and still I think about it every day wanting to order more. My wife keeps me somewhat in check not letting me order it until we can afford it. I think I would have it all the time if it werent for that because its so easy to get. I am actually making an appointment tommarow to go to a a specialist to get my head fixed. I have had mental issues with depression and whatnot for a long time and that is what makes getting off this the worst because my brain tells me I need it to be happy and I believe it. I seem to only have a good time when I take it and have reservatoins about  doing  any large activity whithout ordering some to be high when I do it. Well thats about it. We will see how tommarow goes.

[angel44240]

I know exactly what you mean- it's scary to think of doing any type of activity without feeling 'good', but the truth of the matter is this- these drugs have controlled our lives, now, and we have to get back to feeling 'normal' again. So, if you can go for a month without them, than stop altogether! Because the withdrawals pass in a short time, like a few days to a week, depending how much you've taken, and your mind will get back together after you've taken some vitamin B 12, and then exercise as much as you possibly can! I mean, this will make you feel GREAT! Join the gym, most gyms have free trials and it doesn't really cost as much as the pills would, trust me. We can't continue to let a little white pill control our lives any longer- it's definitely not natural, nor is it normal! Our bodies are telling our brain that it needs the drug in order to go on- truth is, our body can adjust to our 'brain' within a certain amount of days, then it's over with- you're back to normal again! Non-narcotic antidepressants is probably the way to go if you're feeling 'down and out'.. trust me, I do too. I've formed bipolar features from taking Tramadol and that's another thing I can't wait to rid of! It may take a little time, but it'll be well worth it!
Pick a starting date to wean yourself from the pills; Then wean yourself 15% each week, until you're finally done! May take some time, but your wife will very proud of you for it! AND, most of all, you'll feel so good about yourself!
Let me know how things go, okay? Blessings!
Alli

[jamiejjones]

Please never start taking Ultram and if you have already started please stop.  I have been on this medicine now for 10 years.  I have tried to stop dozens of times.  It is highly addictive and the longer you take it the harder it is to stop.  I don't even remember how I was before it and that scares me.  I am going to give it another shot to stop.  I just took my last dose about 2 hours ago.  I know the withdrawls will soon kick in.  I hate this time.  It is so awful and it last so long.  God be with me.

[toxictome]

WELCOME TO THE FORUM.
This is an old thread..repost a new question so you won't get overlooked...lots of people don't respond to old threads.

[Sister37]

My sister just quit for the second time getting off Ultram 10 days ago. I am very worried about her because she seems to be getting worse instead of better (dpression & anxiety, staying in bed all day, loss of interest in her 16 month old son). She has 3 degrees from college, has a wonderful husband, no money problems, just remodeled her home, but nothing makes her happy or keeps her interested for long. She is discouraged & sounds like a stranger on the phone. All she is taking is Wellbutrin now, & has an appointment with a counseler next week, but I don't know that it will be enough. Help!

[BornTwoRiff]

you are way too young to throw your career away.. I would jump through every hoop they want me to 3 times if I had not to lose that but most of all deal with what is making you backslide.. You will look back and know it took you 2 times to really get clean and get CAUGHT as you say but it will be worth it.. You will hate yourself if you let this slip away from you.. Contact them and do whatever they say. Its never too late unless you are dead..  good luck,, we need good nurses..

[tweety1030]

Hello Everyone,  I am also an Ultram abuser and the ONLY advice I can give to all of you is STAY BUSY AND CLEAN UP ALL OF THE PAST MISTAKES YOU HAVE MADE.  Some of them being ISOLATION, IGNORING REALITY,  YOUR SLEEPING PATTERN AND TRY TO STAY AWAY FROM ANY AND ALL ANXIETY MEDICATION.  I also have tried to quit at least 5 or 6 times in a 3 yr. span and I have finally come to the conculsion that taking care of business that I couldn't face before has kept the withdrawls at a minimum.  No time to think about it.  If you have ighnored ALL of your responsibilities like I did then there will be no time to think about the withdrawls!!  I have done this without meetings or counseling, but let me warn you it IS NOT EASY!!!!  But in the long run it will be worth it.  
GOD BLESS EVERYONE!!

[Somewhereovertherainbow]

Hello, I am the wife of a long term Tramadol addict. My husband began taking them for headaches seven years ago and since has changed into an emotionally disconnected stranger. He has lost all passion for life, socialising, family days out with our three young children and interest in me. It has been heartbreaking to watch someone you love waste their life. He has had problems in every job because of his irritable temper and his mother has supplied him with tablets in the past. When he would tell me about arguments he had I would try to down play it to calm the situation and reason with him but he would see this as me being unsupportive. He has been in rehab/treatment 5 times and never kept up his counselling appointments claiming he didn't need them anymore.  Each time a relapse has happened.

We are now separated as he left several weeks ago saying he loved me but did not want to sleep in the same bed and I deserved better. Although I want to try and work things out because I love him dearly, he is not fully acknowledging the impact Tramadol and other tabs along the way have had on our relationship. He now says that we need to work on ourselves and maybe in some months get back together which has happened before and the same problems have arose. As a result of the last 7 years and having three children and a lot of stress financial etc, I became very depressed and lonely and lacking in confidence as he would sleep in another room and even though I am told over and over by friends, family etc, I am a beautiful woman, his coldness has destroyed my self esteem.  Sometimes I would drink at the weekend to numb my pain but it only made it worse. Everyone is advising me to wash my hands as this abandonment will happen again and in my head based on previous patterns, I feel they are right in my own head. However my heart says different. I am finding it hard to let go because I love him and that is why I have hung in so long in the hope a miracle would happen and he would change.  My gut tells me he is still using Tramadol and other meds but when I asked him to swear on the childrens life he reluctantly did claiming I don't swear on their lives but eventually did. I know this was a desperate measure because I was thinking in my own head I would never swear on their lives if I was lying. My sister says to take a back seat, say no more and see what happens. He is now 200 miles away and it has been nearly six weeks and although we are in regular contact he is still out of work and everytime I mention the "tablets" he seems to disconnect even more. Help I am confused and fearful?????????  

[avisg]

Tramadol was my doc so I know all about the disconnect .I really did not care about much of anything when I used .Nothing phased me.I cleaned a lot I didn't want to go many places. I just wanted to be at home with my pills .

I am sorry you are going threw this but by the sounds of it and what I know about the drug .He needs to get off of it if things are going to work for the two of you .I tend to agree with you it does not sound like he is clean .

I hope he chooses his family of the drug it such a hard spot when you cant do anything to make it better ,this is all on him at this point he has to want to get clean.Plz take care of you now and your family I hope things get better .
avis

[helpless2983]

man i am 25 yrs old and i have been on ultram off and on for 6 yrs. its terrible i hate it sooooo much but yet i love it,i love having energy and when i'm off of them im depressed have no energy feel very pissed off get bad cold sweats and its just horrible. before i quit the first time i was up to 30 a day too and i started having seizures i had 3 and thats very scary so i got off of them and i did really god for like a month but let me tell ya it was horrible getting there HORRIBLE! but for some stupid reason i started again but i do not take near as much as i used too. but i hate worrying when im gonna run out whaere im gonna get some more i think about it all the time and i hate it. i wish i could just get off of them and never think about them again,but even when i quit for that month i still thought about them every single day. i cant go to the dr. no insurance definately not enough money to do self pay. have no time to go to detox i have 2 kids 7 and 3 and my husband has no clue and if i told him he would leave me and definately be unsupportive,i have noone. and cant go to a therapist. so what does people do when they dont have insurance and no money? this ***** cuz i really do wanna get off the drug very badly and just stay off of the dumb drug. what are some tips i can do at home to get over this terrible disease that has literally taken over my life. i just wish i could be normal go to bed like a normal person and go thru out my day like a normal person without this stupid drug. i wish i could go thru my life without thinking oh my gosh im gonna run out and where ami gonna get more and counting them everyday. but in another way they do give me energy and help me cope with life easier and cope with my husband cuz hes a real jerk. i have no job no place to go if i try to leave him no money of my own i depend on my husband for everything and i hate that cuz i used to be very independant, and ultram definately helps me cope cuz im depressed everyday and when i take ultram it helps. my husband controls everything i do he helps with nothing but thinks cuz i do not have a job im nothing but i cant get a job cuz i have none to watch my kids and dont have enough money for daycare. i hate deoending on him but lie i said if i try to leave him i have no where to go so what does a person do ya know. so enough about that i was just telling you why i take this awful drug cuz i feel my life will suck even more if i get off of them. i hate feeling soooooooo helpless and like im a noone because really i have nothing but my kids and i love them more than anything in this whole wide world there all i have

[GoingToMakeIt]

There is hope. You have to want to get clean, but you can do it. Above you on this post is avisg. Send her a message and she can help you to taper off of them. Do not just quit.

[desmom77]

I was addidicted to ultram for 10 yrs. i was up to 50 a day i did that for about 4 yrs befors the seizures started. that still didnt stop me. i origanally started taking them for migraines then i got diaganosed with endomitriosis and they help out so much but my tolorance got so high i had to take more and more.i weaned off of them numerous times and had 8 seizures before i finallly said enough was enough. i clean today ....its hard but i do it for me and my daughter........be strong.

[spoon24]

Hope you are well! I have a question for you. How did you get to sleep when you went cold turkey. When i run short at the end of the month i won't sleep for days. The sleeping issue is the big reason i haven't got off of them.I've been taking the Ultram for 13 years and do about 10 a day.