Vicoden Addiction

[Shea]

Hi, I am going from spectator to participant.You are definitly little Internet Angels.Reading your posts have been of great benefit to me.I have had numerous extensive reconstructive back surgeries. Along with other surgeries.Started small 15 years ago and the Dragon's Tail just grew bigger and bigger from there.To the lenght of 20 Vicoden ES, 2 Oxy's (10mg) and 6 Soma's a day. So about 3 weeks ago all the med seeking and going to different Dr.caught up to me.They all seemed to find out about one another.I know this is a blessing because I don't think I would have done it on my own.I went to my regular Dr. and told him the truth. He put me on clonidine, xanax and kept me on the 2 10mg oxy and down to two Somas for about a week. NOW I only take 2 Soma's at night and 1 trazodone (help me sleep).Nothing in day For a week I was taking Neurontin (for epilepsy, but I read it helps withdrawl so the Dr. had me try it off label use, anyone hear of this drug?)It seemed to help but had verigo so I stopped. Anyhow, now to my question which I will thank you in advance for your time.I still feel like ****!I have No energy.I keep reading how after 3 weeks so many feel energetic and a positive attitude.But I don't.Yes I have pain but that isn't my big concern.It is how tired I feel.And nausea always Dr.gave me Zofran(used for Chemo patients with nausea)Will I ever feel good again? Thom's recipe should I try? Any insight would be GREAT. Also I feel like I am having acute post withdrawls. Skin crawling out of the blue. Yes, it is better than the initial
first 3 days. Thank you all.

[shane]

Hello shea, I know your situation and it is not pleasent at all! Unfortunately it is lots of work and time to get yourself straight again. Compared to 15 yrs., three weeks is not a long time,although it seems that way.It sound like your very determined to change and this is sooo important. stay with it man, things WILL start to lightin up. Going back can't be an option,or you will be right where you left off. Please go to NA meetings. They are wonderful organizations and will help you inmeauseably in your recovory. I had stoped using narcotic maney times and always went back to using until I found help at NA. DO this for yourself and you can then help other's with this awful addition. God belss you.  Shane

[Witchywoman]

Shea, I think it would help a lot for you to take the supplements that many of us here have been taking. I've been taking them for a few months, and I'm sure I'd be feeling worse without them, and many here have gotten tons of help from them.

Thoma's recipe outlines the supplements in more detail, but in brief, you want to be taking L-Tyrosine, a good multivatimin, and a multimineral tablet that has zinc, magnesium and magnanese.
Also I've taken 5 htp, an amino acid that is the precurser to seratonin, and frankly, that has been the most helpful of any of the supplements, though I encourage you to take them all.  Be careful of the zinc, it is toxic in too high doses.

Keep us posted!

WW

[jule1]

Hi everyone,  It seems like labor Day really brought a lot of new writers to this forum so welcome to all.  CONSTANT I used to look in the mirror and not be able to stand the sight of my own face and I felt like a fraud and that I was kidding everyone and would be found out.  The loving, caring people on this forum have made things so much better someone here once told me that adiction (addiction) is a disease much like diabetes etc. and that I should not feel ashamed for being and addict however disease need to be taken care of and you have made the biggest, hardest step by coming here I can tell you without you even writing it that you felt a huge weight lift off your shoulders just by wrting about yourself and being honest about your addiction.  Anyway I just want to welcome you all and to those of you that are in the days of withdrawl keep up the good work and read back postings to get some encouragement read all of WW she has come so far when I hear from her I know I can do it too.  Do not be ashamed of your addictions and weakness we are only human and have our disease I am here for anyone that needs me Love and Peace to all Jules

[jule1]

Hi buddy how is your back today?  I am so proud of you and just wanted to send you a big Hug (((((((hug))))) Jules

[katie r]

Well, this morning I woke up and didn't feel too good. I just now took my "cold turkey recipe" and am hoping that once that kicks in I'll feel better. I'm very nauseated this morning. I really wish I had some valium to take the edge off! I may call in and see if I can get some. WW???? I didn't get your email. Did you save mine? Can you try again? Ok folks. Time for some imodium (immodium). Gotta run! ha ha.

[Kristen]

Does the L-Tyrosene/B-6 recipe help if you NOT going through withdrawals...such as for cravings/or just helping my brain stay healthy????

[Kristen]

You have come to the RIGHT place....as said above....DONT go back...its only been 3 weeks and compared to 15 years, that is not much time....Be easy on yourself...I know I would beat myself up because I wasn't being super-mom 24/7 and it had been only 2 weeks....I didn't understand WHY I didn't feel like doing anything....I DO know that making yourself exercise helps alot...getting your natural endorphins going...you had suppressed those for so long, your body doesn't really know what to think now....just be patient and go easy on yourself...you have come a LONG way and Don't go back....that life is a living HELL!!!  Those pills will own you and your bank account....just think of all the time spend at Dr's offices, just wondering where you were going to get the next supply to get you through the week so you could function....its AWEFUL!!!!  When you are feeling down and wanting to vent, come here, everyone is WONDERFUL!!!!   ~love, kristen

[Witchywoman]

Katie, I did answer your email and just sent another one...let me know if you still don't get it. Maybe you have more than one email account and sent it to me from one you haven't checked back on yet?

Kristen, yes, the L-Tyrosine and B6 helps a lot after withdrawals as well. So does 5 HTP..I swear the 5 HTP has been like a miracle for me in terms of balancing my mood.  Also, keep taking the zinc/magnesium supplements, if you haven't been...consider starting them. They help the body tons.

Jules (((hugs))) right back to you! My back is not great. A bit better today than it was yesterday, but I still have pain. I look forward to seeing what non narcotic options doccypoo has to offer me today.

I still feel that I'd rather be free of the Demon and deal with some pain, than deal with the intense emotional hell that the addiction I was gave me...but dang I wish I could handle the meds without doing the addiction dance!  My cravings for the meds have subsided a lot. I guess the cravings must come in waves, yes?

I like FREEDOM!
love to all..
WW

[jule1]

Hi there,  Have you ever looked into getting nerve block shots for your back.  I am sure if it is an option the Drs will talk yo about it but maybe you want to read up on them and bring it up to the drs first a friend of mine had them done and they helped her pain it is only a termorary fix but would maybe be good when you are in extreme pain and again. I AM SO PROUD OF YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!  I HAVE BEEN THINKING SO MUCH ABOUT YOU AND YOU HAVE REALLY HELPED ME CUT DOWN!!!!!!!!!! I really am doing better but could probally use some therapy!! Talk to you soon

[Shea]

Thank you all for responding to my post. I went out today to the health food store and bought the L'Tyrosine, B-6, Mag, Zinc, multi, Copper, Phosphours and 5HT. It was a strange feeling coming home with pills you can put on the counter instead of having to stash in a sock drawer so your husband don't find
out:-)Although now he is aware and has been very supportive.

Someone posted that they were having alot of nausea with their withdrawl. I also had this and still do 3 weeks later. The Dr. gave me Zofran. It works great and doesn't make you tired. But you must have an insurance plan as these cost about $30.00 a pill.

Bless you all. Your compassion and warmth exceeds.

Shea

[Kristen]

I haven't gone out and bought all those vitamins...but geez, HOW MUCH did you spend on all that....I am seriously thinking about going to buy everything, but where do I go and How much is it going to be???

[pinky to rebecca]

the vitamins will cost all together around 50 bucks? not too bad considering what it's for.

the l-tyrosine 20 some, multivitamins 15, b6 9 and i don't know about the 5htp. still have to find that.

[Witchywoman]

The most expensive supplement on the regime is the 5 HTP. It can run you anywhere between $30 and $60 a bottle. The higher price one tends to be enteric coated, so the stomache acids don't destroy it. I paid $35.00 for the Jarrow brand, and even though it is not enteric coated, it works fine for me.  You can get any and all of these in a health food store, or any vitamin shop. GNC would work. There are some good deals on the website www.vitaminshoppe.com as well.

the L-Tyrosine and the mutlimineral with the zinc,mag,etc are not that expensive.
Think of all the money spent on the pain pills over time, and then compare the cost of them to the cost of the supplements...the supplements are cheaper and better for you! lol

WW

[PHILLYCHAD]

Can someone tell me the benifits of going on a methadone maintnance program? If someone keeps going back on opates would it be better to just use Methadone? Thanks, Chad

[mickytim]

Shea, Welcome! You need to know that deep down inside each of us on this post, at one time or another, or many times asked the same question as you, and finally came clean about something that has been hidden for so long.

It also seems that as soon as that weight is lifted, SHAME sets in. ( I KNOW VERY WELL ), The friends on this post have come to our rescue ( especialy mine ) many times, some daily if needed.
This is not an easy step, But one that has to be done, Here on this post is one time we all relate, feel, live and survive on helping, talking, what ever it takes to help someone make this an easyier step.  Remember your not alone! Keep strong!

WW, Phillychad, And all, I'm thinking of you guys and reading your post about the herbs and saying to myself, HUMMM now what would be a good idea to help you save some money on your stuff, WEELL the internet!!

Check out Vitamins.com and Vitaminworld.com or pick up a muscle mag ( now now ladies ) but in the back you will find all kinds of places to get MUCH CHEAPER STUFF.

Most, no store can come close to.  Just FYI

Stay srtrong I'm proud of you all, I'm doing great, painful but great.  All the strength to you my friends

peace
mickytim

[Shea]

Kristen, The cat is right about $50.00. GNC was running a special. Bought some items there but also went to Viamin World. The most expensive was the 5HT. Now let me ask do I take all these at once. As that is what i did. 1500 L-Tyrosine,220 B-6, and then the rest? Isn't it amazing how I worry about taking an overdose of vitamins but never gave a second thought to downing 3 Vicoden ES 1 Oxy and 2 Somas at once. Crazy **** huh. If someone could let me know about taking the full dosage at once. Thanks again.

Shea

[earthgirl]

IT IS DAY 6 OF FREEDOM FOR ME.  THIS IS THE FIRST DAY I HAVEN"T HAD COMPULSION.  IT IS A MIRACLE TO BE ON THE OTHER SIDE OF ADDICTION, THE RECOVERY SIDE.  MEETINGS HELP SO MUCH AND I AM REALLY THANKFUL FOR OTHERS WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE ME TO LIGHT THE WAY.  THIS FORUM YOUR SHARING HAS BEEN A GOD SENT.  I KNOW IT IS ONLY A DAY AT A TIME, SOMETIMES I HAVE TO TAKE IT A MINUTE AT A TIME.  TODAY WAS A TWO BATH DAY.  EPSOM SALT AND LAVENDAR AND CHAMMOMILLE REALLLY HELPS THE SORE MUSCLES.  THE  REBOUND HEADACHES HAVE BEEN A KILLER.  I SPEND MORE ON ONE IMITREX THEN A BOTTLE OF NORCOS. THE DEPRESSION HAS STARTED TO LIFT. THE THING THAT SCARES ME IS I AM SO USED TO RUNNING FROM MYSELF THAT IT STILL FEELS SO NORMAL TO WANT TO TAKE SOMETHING.  BLESSING TO ALL OF YOU.

[mickytim]

I just bought 2 bottles of 5 Htp 50mgs, 50 per, 2 for 1 at Rite-Aid, Last week.  Natrol brand for $5.99. Where is everyone shopping???

The most i've seen it for was $16.00, tommorrow I will get my books out and give you more onfo.

If you haven't opened a bottle they can be returned.

check out the web you will be suprised, it will save you

Good luck and strength to all

peace mickytim

[katie r]

Hello forum! Hey.....has anyone clicked on the link above to go to Dr. Steve's page? I clicked on it and it took me to a porn site. I thought I was going to read stories about people that have come thru addiction and instead I got....well... you know....nasty stuff! Anyway.....I'm on something like day 3 of no lortab. I'm trying the cold turkey recipe and I truly believe it is helping. But I'm really craving something like valium. About 3 days ago while I was cleaning I found a little blue pill with the # 10 on it......it was a valium! I always count my pills and it must have been dropped. Anyway, of course I took it at bedtime. So....today I get this craving for valium and I start tearing the house apart. I took the cushions off the couch....I was hoping another one had dropped. No such luck. I even moved the couch to see if there was one under there. Am I the only one that does this kind of stuff? So now I'm sitting here pouring my heart out to you fellow addicts. WW? Thanks for the emails. I admire you for being so strong. I wish I had just a little of your strength. I hope you and I can keep in touch via email cause I really need someone like you on my side. Can anyone out there tell me one thing.....how do you manage to get any sleep? When does the sleep pattern go back to normal? ok...guess I'll go for now. Thanks for listening...all of you.. and a special thanks to WW. This forum is heaven sent.

[Broken Bones]

Hell-o, I didn't feel good enough to check E-Mail ect........so, I didn't see any reply's after my post, last time. But I still read everyone's today. Damn , life sucks so bad....I did bad one night(too many) but I'm still cutting down.....The depression that the drugs cause are what makes it hard to stay on your cut-down program, it's unbelieveable that it's soo hard to do.I've had 3 friends kill themselfs in 3 months.If there was some clinics that would help yourself get off at your own pace,very slowly, it would be easy.......Then reality sets in.....Even with family help....It doesn't help......they don't have a ******* clue.........without a clue ......it's not going to happen...........I had all the help in the world , but when they don't have a clue , your screwed........I don't want to be a downer but,,,,Life sucks........I can't live with it and I can't live without it.........Broken Bones

[mickytim]

I'm laughing at myself so hard because I felt like this wild man after I to found 1 pill in my detoxing and tore the house apart so bad I had to move out to find one more. It wasn't there !

The answer is yes for me! Oh I forgot about tearing the car apart and taking the seats out, man I feel like a dickhead, It's funny to me now, (5 months) I hope I shared a laugh with you, we are all human, and this is a tough road, my thoughts are with you.

peace and strength today

mickytim

[mickytim]

Dude, Please don't do anything, and I mean anything to yourself, I have been saving this inside of me for years I will now share it with you and the world.

1982 I thought everyday I wanted to die inside, dpression, pressures of growing up, losing 6 friends in 6 months, but I never thought I could do it till I found myself on the Portland bridge.  It was -10 degrees on a frezzing January nite. I had no idea were I was, standing over a rail holding on with one hand and looking down ready to fall, untill the cop tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I was ok, It's then I woke up and thought to myself jumping off a bridge!!! what the hell am I doing!! **** I carry a gun why not blow my headoff, from that day life was never sweeter.

Till 3 years later when I died 2 times on an operating table after an accident at work.  And let me tell you I remember it all, I was not unconsions, cause they try to keep you awake.  It just seemed so sureal because 3 years earlier I was trying to die and now said there no way in hell I want to die, but it was right there in my face, and it was scarry, I'm not ready.

This led to years of working out keeping myself in the best shape, eating right, untill another set back in 1998, and after a few years of hearing, this guys a messed I though again, maybe lifes not worth it, cause the Dr's think I'm going to be a vegtable soon. Till I turn on ESPN and see people in wheelchairs and no legs running a freakin marathon, with no meds, cause your tested, and I say, I've got a kid now, what kind of example am I setting for her, if they can do it so can I.

5 months later, a few set backs getting off the meds, and some of the greatest advice from some of the most special people here on this post WW, jennyfla, milo, and all others ( thank you all ). I have started working through the pain in my body and the pain in my heart, and started working out again and living again. My family, although we have our differences in things, has grown closer each day, I am down 60 lbs and am only 40 more to my fighting weight.

Broken, We are here for you and anyone else, don't make my mistakes, trust me your already reaching out for help, go to meetings share your stories, be that honest and sincere person you are here, and you'll find many mickytim stories, and many people who survived and found ways to live.  Use them, use us don't use yourself. Scars take along time to heal inside and out!

I won't stop to rest, untill I'm dead, and it won't be because of my own hand, If you want I'll give you my home phone, call collect I don't care 24 hours a day, just call!!
***@****, anyone of you can not just Broken.

All the strength of the day and peace to you. I'll be thinking of you all. Thank you for letting me share my story

peace
mickytim

[Milo]

For those suffering from nausea, I wanted to recommend an addition to the herbal recipe: concentrated Ginger, 1000 mg, works well for me in relieving nausea. It's been clinically proven to help pregnant women w/morning sickness. And as far as I can tell, it doesn't have any side effects/dangers, and can be combined with whatever else you're taking. I know how miserable nausea is, so I hope this suggestion is of help. -- Milo

[Kristen]

One more thing....I TOTALLY understand what you mean about them "not having a clue".....My parents would **** me off saying "why dont you just quit"....it is NOT that easy....they have NEVER had an addiction like I have.  They may have their addictive personalities, BUT they were never physically and mentally addicted to a substance such as Vicodin....it is the HARDEST thing to overcome and NO-ONE will EVER understand but another who has been down the same road as we have....thats why coming to this forum helps so much.....hang tough...love, kristen

[katie r]

Wow...your story is a powerful one. Tell me. How did you lose the weight? And is the extra weight the reason you almost died on the operating table? I'm carrying around some extra pounds also. I laughed my ass off at your story about hunting for stray pills. The car! That's one place I didn't check. After I get my living roon back in order......
Anyway.....thanks for sharing your story and for posting your email address. I'm going to store it and may email you sometime for moral support! I don't have too many friends right now....most of my friends are at my job and I've been off work for awhile. I talk to some via email but none of them would ever understand my addiction.
This is the only place I can come to that I feel like I can be myself.
Thanks for listening!

[Witchywoman]

Earthgirl..I'm so happy for you that you are finally on the other side of withdrawals!! Woooohoooo!!!!  There really is freedom on the other side of it, it's just a long road getting there. Congratulations, and please keep us posted on how you are doing.

Katie, it's good to hear that you've made it to day 3. I think at about day 4 things start to feel a little better. The bad news is that it takes a long time for sleep to get to normal, at least, it is taking a long time for me. My sleep cycle is still totally off.  I finally got a good night sleep last night, after taking melatonin, a natural sleep remedy. It really worked, and I don't feel drugged and groggy after taking it, like I do if I take benadryl for sleep.
I didn't crave the valium during my detox, 'cause I was terrified of getting addicted to it as well. I just never ever ever want to have to withdraw from anything again. I had ten valium, and used four of them during the detox. What I used mostly was elavil. It made me very sleepy, took the edge off the withdrawals, and it is non addicting. I had some leftover from when a doc gave it to me for migraines. Plus, my cat is also on elavil to stop her aggressive behavior (one of my four sweeties is the feline FROM HELL)

Katie, I don't think it was strength or will power that got me through. It was me finally being so sick of being a slave to a pill and having my life robbed from me that gave me the energy to keep going through it. I surrendered, basically. Completely surrendered, and let the people of this forum and my acupuncturist take over. Without this support, I wouldnt be on the other side, and I wouldn't be able to still be clean.  The hard part is really after the withdrawals...staying clean.
Coming here helps with that tremendously!

Good luck and keep us posted.

My inlaws are arriving in a few hours...Goddess give me strength! LOL

love you all tons,
WW

[muffin]

I was wondering if someone could give me some advice to help my cousin.  I am a recovering drug addict with 14months clean, but my drug of choice was crank so my withdrawals consisted of sleeping for three days and that's it.  My cousin is addicted to pain pills.  He has had two back surgeries and the 2nd one was about 8months ago.  He has a 18month recovery per the doctor.  They have had him on a few different pills but the main one has been vicodin.  He started out fine, as we all do, but he is now taking 10 - 12 vicodin a day.  He also takes loritab. (?)  When he runs out he will take whatever he can get his hands on. Such as Vicodin from anyone, even from people he does not know, Ambien, Oxy Contin,  and any other kind of pills he can get a hold of.  He has made comments of wanting to die, and that he can't believe this is happening to him, and all kinds of other crazy stuff.  Yesterday he finally admitted he had a problem.  We talked with people at Kaiser (his insurance) and today he is sitting there waiting to get a referral to a detox/rehab center.  Last night he flushed all the pills he had in his house down the toilet, which i don't know if that is good or bad, and today he is depressed and starting some withdrawals.  Basically I would like to know if someone can tell me what to expect?  How severe and what types of withdrawals is going to have?  What things might help him until he gets in somewhere?  Any kind of advice or help would be very much appreciated?  I thank you in advance. Sincerely Muffin

[muffin]

This is my first time so I was not sure how to do this. I posted a comment/question a few minutes ago to Anyone but after reading on I think it should have been to everyone.  So will someone please read muffin to anyone and help me out.
thank you so much in advance.
Sincerely Muffin

[Witchywoman]

Hi Muffin,
I'm very glad to hear that he is getting into a detox soon. They will be able to give him medications that will help with the withdrawals.
A lot of us here have been using vitamins and amino acids to help with withdrawals as well as the long term nutrionally depleting effects of the narcotics. I'll list them:

L-Tyrosine  an amino acid that helps your body start to make it own endorphins again. While withdrawing take 4000 mgs in the morning on an empty stomache with 50mgs B6 and vitamin C

Take a good multimineral tablet that is high in zinc and magnesium. Many swear by this..the zinc does help reduce the withdrawals quite a bit and gets you back to feeling normal faster.

5 HTP (5 hydroxy tryptophan) helps with the depression as well as sleeplessness...it is an amino acid. The research studies on it that I found on the web indicate that it is *more* effective on major depression than prozac. It gives the body the precursor to seratonin. Prozac blocks seratonin receptor sites in the brain, leaving more seratonin free, but the uptake blocking causes other effects, such as inability to orgasm and shakiness. 5HTP comes from the seed of an african plant, and just gives the body more seratonin, with *no* side effects. I am in awe of it. A simple plant! One researcher said that they gave this info, but it was surpressed by the drug manufacturers...gee...I wonder why. OK..off my soap box now..sorry for getting side tracked.

If you look on the threads below, look for posts from Thomas. He recently reposted his recipe for detoxing from hydrocodone, which is what vicodin and lortab both are. You'll find more details in his post.

good luck and let us know how it turns out!

WW

[jule1]

Hi Muffin, your cousin is so lucky to have someone like you on his side.  This forum is a wonderful loving educational place.  I am sure you understand addiction but I think the withdrawls are a lot different than what you went through.  Listen to WW she knows what she is talking about and just went through the same thing.  So many people here have used Thomas detox plan and it has really helped I am sure if you can't find it he would post it again for you.  If he does suffer withdrawls he could have severe diarrhea, flu like symptoms and that creepy crawly feeling where you just want out of your own skin.  Fortunately the detox centers could put him through a detox where he will not suffer that bad and also help him with the reasons behind his addiction (there is always something)  and his depression.  Best wishes to you  and please write again to let us know how you both are doing.

MICKY , Your story is amazing thank you for sharing!! You kind of remind me of our dear friend Wiz who used to write all the time and now will stop in once in a while he is such a special person.  How is everything with you?  What brought you to out little family here?  I am here everyday and always reading everyones postings!!!  Peace and light to you!!

[Angelica]

... I usually read these warnings, then delete them, but this seems to be pretty serious, so I'm passing it on:

> New virus has just been discovered that has been classified by Microsoft as the most destructive ever! This virus was discovered yesterday afternoon by McAfee and no vaccine has yet
been developed. This virus simply destroys Sector Zero from the hard disk, where vital information for its functioning are stored. This virus acts in the following manner: It sends itself automatically to all contacts on your list with the
title "A Virtual Card for You". As soon as the supposed virtual card is opened, the computer freezes so that the user has to reboot. When the ctrl+alt+del keys or the reset button are pressed, the virus destroys Sector Zero thus permanently destroying the hard disk. Yesterday in just a few
hours this virus caused panic in New York, according to news cast by CNN. This alert was received by an employee of Microsoft itself. So don't open any mails with subject: "A Virtual Card for You." As soon as you get the mail, delete it.  Please pass this mail to all of your friends. Forward this to everyone  in your address book I would rather receive this > 25 times than not at all.  Also: Intel announced that a new and very destructive virus was discovered recently. If you receive an email called "An Internet Flower For You," do not open it.
Delete it right away! This virus removes all dynamic link libraries (DLL files) from your computer. Your computer will
not be able to boot up!!

[mickytim]

katie, jbear, Thank you for your reply, I never shared this with anyone, only people who knew about the suicded attempt was close family. Only they could check me out of the hospital back then.
If that post helped 1 person, then I did the right thing as hard as it was to share, even with my closets of friends.

By the way I died on the ER table which was worse than the operating table. Atleast in the operating room I think your on drugs, I was just brought in and then when my body failed I woke up with some guy on my chest pounding me and everyone screaming, the second time was worse they friggin shock me. Don't let anyone fool you it felt like Mark maGuire hit me when I woke up the next day with tubes and beepers everywhere, that was 86 Now they are better equipt.

Katie, I was 185 lbs solid, weight didn't play a part cause I was doing everything, biking, rollerskating, surfing, hiking etc, etc.  But now I can relate to the weight problem, but I'm losing very quickly because I'm more active.  Today and yesterday I was in NYC walking everywhere ( I love the city! )My daughter started school there. I'm lifting weights and using an elypse machine for running, and working through the pain.

My focus is getting me back to enjoy life, I'm so proud of you all, YOU people here give me my strength, and it is now starting to show everyone is noticing.

By the way I put my seats back in my car, it was difficult to drive without them!! ha ha ha

WW, You are doing such a great job in your research, and staying focused even on the bad day's.  I always told my Dr to slam me on my arm with a hammer, he'd say why? I told him that mabye that would take me away from thinking about my back!!.  I know you will find your way soon, I am always here!

All the power to get through tommorow to all, use your strength!

peace mickytim

[mickytim]

Katie, My neice's name is katie ( she's one of my fav's, then again they all are )
I'm going to give you the best advice I can at this moment to cheer you up! because it just made my day! Go outside right now and look at the sky ( it's right at sunset ) have you ever seen anything so beautiful, take a deep breath, close your eyes and just breth.

Tommorow morning get up early look at the sunrise ( I do almost daily )have child, Look up at the sky and close your eyes and just breath.

And every single day!!When you open your eyes, remember you have friends who share this with you!

I know you can do it!

peace
mickytim

[muffin]

Thank you both for your advice, concern and help.  You will be happy to know that as of 5pm tonight he is admitted to a 30day inpatient program with a 10day detox/dryout period.  He took 7 Vicodin within 2 hours before he went (so he says).  Once he layed down at the center he was out of it and his girlfriend was looking thru his pockets for the house keys to go and get him some clothes and things and she found a handful of pills. Lord only knows what they were.  We are just hoping he did not try to Overdose or something and take more than he said.  While I was going over his paperwork with him he was insanely loaded and nodding out but hopefull that part is over with now.  I also found out that in the last seven days he has taken 12 - 15 Vicodin a day, ambien, lortab, neurontin and methadone.  Where he got the methadone I have no clue.  Anyways the addiction specialists he saw at Kaiser is the one who admitted him and he gave him Valium to help with tremors and stuff. He also gave him Clinodine for I don't know and Robaxin for his back spasms/pain.  Is it okay for him to have the Valium?  I mean it is under lock and key and they distribute to them at certain times but isn't valium addictive too??  I'm sure the doctor knows what he is doing but I am scared.  He was just so jacked up today. He was loaded but also kind of having withdrawals. The twitches and shaking had started and the nausea was beginning.  I'm sorry if I am rambling on and not making any sense but I did not go to my meeting tonight so that I could be here for my aunt and stuff so this is kind of my recovery program tonight.  It is good to have someone to ramble on and express my feelings and thoughts to.  Well I just wanted to fill you in on the progress of my cousin and give you my deepest thanks.  Hope to hear from you soon.  I will check back later tonight before I go to bed or in the morning.  
Thanks Again  Muffin  

[jule1]

Muffin, if you read back to Thomas detox recipie one of the main ingredients is valium it is essential to the detox.  As I said before many people here have done it sucessfully with that recipie.  I am not sure what all the other stuff is about but I am sure the other people here can help you!!

Micky - I also just love taking my son in the city in his stroller and walking around on nice days like yesterday.  We actually went to the shore yesterday and what a beautiful day!!! It helps me so much to be outdoors and realize all I was missing when I was on the pills all the time.   Peace  Jules

[muffin]

I don't really know how to move around this site.  Could one of you post his recipe or tell me how to find it.  I would like to see what it is.  Thank you again for everything.  Talk to you soon.  
Your'e the Best
Brandi

[Witchywoman]

Hi Muffin, I'm reposting Thomas's recipe for you, right here.
But, I'd also suggest you just cruise around the threads, reading all you can. You'll be surprised at the helpful things everyone says.

ok...here's the famous home detox recipe from Thomas:



For what it's worth, I'm going to re-print my cold turkey detox recipe for Lortabs (yes, with the right combo of drugs and non-drug therapies, you can detox yourself from this drug). I know, because I developed this formula in order to detox myself from a seventy-five (yes, 75) vicodin per day habit. So, here it is. If you're going to do it, follow it to the letter or it won't work. The one rx drug you'll need to make it really work is some kind of benzo like valium, klonopin, librium, xanax, ativan, etc. So, if you have any relatives that can help you out with one of these drugs (or a doctor, of course) the benzos wll help make the results much more successful ... but if you can't, the recipe can still work ...

Here's my tried-and-true do-it-yourself "cold turkey" detox protocol.

Supplies you'll need first:

As many Valium, Xanax, Librium, Ativan or Klonopin as you can get your hands on.

--- first day off the opiate, use enough Valium or whatever, to, if possible, sleep through most of the first couple days. Then start decreasing the dose until you're down to nothing in about 5 or 6 days. You'll have to do the math. The Valium or one of its sister drugs will help tremendously with the anxiety and, somewhat, with the body aches. Valium may make you eat like a pig and, when withdrawing from narcotics, one usually craves sweets, so I'd be ready to indulge myself with lots of treats, along with some good escapist movies to take your mind off of evrything. That always worked for me.

VERY IMPORTAT: Around-the-clock access to either hot baths or a Jacuzzi.

--speaking of those goddamn thigh cramps that seem to love to show up in the middle of the night, have that hot bath or Jacuzzi at the ready. Don't hesitate to spend the majority of the week in that hot water if that's what it takes to get you through it. You may be wrinkled, but you'll have your sanity. Don't underestimate what the hot baths can do to relieve the withdrawal discomfort. They really, really work. Heating pads between the thighs can help with those cramps, too, but not nearly as much as the hot baths.

Brand-name-only Imodium (immodium) (over the counter at the supermarket. Don't ak me why, but the brand name just works better.)

-- if you're a normal Lortab/Vicodin addict, you'll be getting the runs by no later than the second or third day off the lortab. In my experience, it's an especially unpleasant variety. At the first impulse, take two or three Imodium (immodium) and respond to returning urges with two tabs. It's important that you do it at the slightest rumbling from your guts. Immodium is also an opioid class drug and, even though it's action is mostly confined to that part of the brain that affects bowel motility, I noticed a slight relief from the overall withdrawal feeling when I took the Imodium (immodium) -- just don't overdose on the stuff thinking it will relieve all the withdrawal symptoms - it won't - it will just constipate the hell out of you at very high doses. Stick to the dosages I recommended.


Now, this is very important to short- and long-term reovery - I can't emphasize this one enough:
L-Tyrosine [NOT L-Lysine] (qty 50 of the 500mg caps) - an amino acid freely available at the health food store. Costs about 12 bucks a bottle.

WHY?
Chronic use of narcotics depletes the brain of several critical neurotransmitters responsible for well-being and mental performance and attitude.
Plus:
Bottle of 100 mg B6 caps (the B6 helps the L-Tyrosine be absorbed)
Plus, high-potency magnesium and zinc suplements. You may have to buy each in separate pills.

My experience detoxing with L-Tyrosine says take 4000 (four thousand) mg. (8x500mg caps of L-Tyrosine) with two 100mg B6 caps along with your zinc/magnesium supplement every day for your "detox week" to provide your brain with the raw material it needs to replenish its stores of these neurotransmitters. Many feel the difference on the very first dose. (I did, big time!!) ***Take it on an empty stomach, either first thing in the morning or at bedtime. You can continue this regimen after the first week if it continues to make you feel good. I continue to use L-Tyrosine every other day with very few exceptions, although now I cut my dose to 1500 mg of L-Tyrosine. I cut down on the dosage beause it can cause the runs at high doses. But for your first week, you need the high dose of L-Tyrosine and should just put up with the runs. It only happens once after each dose (if it happens at all) and it's not the "buring runs" that you get from withdrawal. It also happens within the first hour and won't return, so it's something you can plan on. Also, the Imodium (immodium) justight cancel out the runs, anyway. So, it's livable at least for that first week. Besides, the L-Tyrosine will make you feel so damn good so quickly, you won't care! You'll be looking forward to your morning L-Tyrosine dose, believe me! L-Tyrosine will make you feel alert without being nervous, peaceful without feeling sedated, and just generally GOOD, despite the withdrawal. It's truly THE discovery of opiate withdrawal therapy.

Multi-vitamins (most junkies don't eat too well, so this one's just for good sense).

Acording to some literature, you also need to add copper, phosphorus and Vitamin C to fully complete the dopamine, norepinephrine converson. You might have to do some hunting at the health food store to find the right vitamin or vitamins to supply all this stuff. Health food stores generally care multis that, instead of carrying every vitamin known to an, carry instead all the "metals" we need such as copper, Magnesium, zince, phosporous,etc. I esily found a multiple that contained large doses of zince, magnesium, copper, vitmamin C and lots of other things for very little money. In any event, I got a VERY good result from just the L-Tyrosine and B6 alone. Don't let any difficulty finding the whole laundy list of minerals and metals stop you fro using the L-Tyrosine and B6 -- it works like gangbusters anyway!

By the way, the zinc and magnesium tip was supplied by a contributor to this site called "pillpoppa" who cliamed it was the magic formula for recovering from long-term methadone use, so it sounds like an important part of the fromula for you in particular. Even though I never used methadone, I was using this multiple with large doses of zinc and magnesium (without realizing it) and, at first, I couldn't figure out why I felt so good so quickly after stopping the Lortabs. The I realized I was getting all that zinc and mag with my multiple! Pillpoppa's formula really does work, my friend. So, don't skip any of the instructions I've given you here. Add it up, and it doesn't cost as much as a visit to the doc for a big fat Lortab rx! Remember: all the details of my recipe are necessary to complete recovery. Then, just will yourself to stick as close to the prescribed dose as you can for your pain and, hopefully, you're home free!

WARNING: Avoid L-Tyrosine if you're on an SSRI (serotonin reuptake inhibitor) such as Prozac, Effexor, Paxil, all those kinds of psychiatric mood elevators, etc.

[Thomas]

thanks, o' witchy one for reprinting the text. Not much to say to muffin except to urge her to make sure her loved one follows through with the doctor-ordered detox program. Lots of affection and understanding tempered by a no-nonesense attitude seems to work best for dealing with people just starting down the "detox/recovery" highway. Good luck, muffin. If I can be of any more help, post to me under "Thomas." I will answer as soon as i see your post. Don't be disappointed if you have to use another thread. It's very rare to get your own thread on this site. Good luck.

Your friend and friend to all who suffer from opiate addiction,

Thomas

[susanlea]

Soory guys, I had to get a new nickname. It wouldn't let me in under Lea or Susan which I have gone by before.  Just wanted to let you all know, I am not a new post.
Muffin:  Clonodine is used to control blood pressure.  When an addict is going through withdrawals, their blood pressure usually skyrockets.  So they use clonodine to prevent them from stoking out.  About the Valium?  I have never heard of this?  It is very addicting and given to an addict is like trading one curse for another.  But then again, we are only human, they are the Dr.s.  And my experience with Dr's is....they have no idea what they are doing.  Good luck and I wish him all the best.  Susan

[muffin]

WW: Thank you for re posting the recipe for me. I have printed it out to have on hand just in case he skips out of the detox/rehab program and we get to do it the hard way at home.  Yesterday afternoon he was laying on the bed and reached over to the fridge to get a soda out and fell off the bed.  So the center called and ambulance because he said he was in extreme pain.  My first thought was that it was a trick to get to the hospital and get some dope (morphine, vicodin, demerol, etc.)but I tried to give him the benefit of the doubt and be positive.  Well I think it scared him more than it hurt him, because his second surgery was only 8 months ago.  Well as it turned out once he got calmed down and the xrays came back with no damage he was okay.  He is a little sore and has a small bruis but A-Okay.  And the best part is that they did not give him any type of pain medicine at all. I was so proud of him.  He seemed positive and upbeat about the center so I hope he is really ready and he will do whatever program they suggest to him.  Once he is detoxed he meets with a counselor and does an intake and she/he suggests the length and type of program they feel he would benefit from the most.  So I hope he goes with whatever they say.  He is having a hard time being away from his fiance, but I told him that if he is loaded 24/7 he's away from her anyways.  So I hope it sticks in and he does it.  Well now that I've rambled on and on I better get back to work now.  I just wanted to give you an update.  I would also like to thank you for giving me someone to talk with, so to speak, about this.  It is really cool how you can just talk with people you don't know and feel really at ease and like you do know them.  Thank you, Thank You, Thank You.  Your friend Muffin. :):):):)

Thomas: Thank you for your recipe and your caring thoughts.  I apreciate it very much and I will keep you updated.  This is first "chat" sit I have ever been on and I'm not very internet literate yet.  So at the risk of sounding really dumb I have to ask What is a thread?? I look forward to your response. :):):)
Sincerely Muffin

susan: Thank you for the info on clonodine.  That was the one thing I was wondering about.  My thought was that by lowering his blood pressure it would make him even more dizzier and nauseated than he is already going to be.  But thanks for caring enough to explain it to me.  I love this site. Thank You Again Muffin  :):):)

[Thomas]

a thread is simply the series of questions and replies grouped under a single heading. For example, this thread is called "Vicodin Addiction."

The forum only takes one new thread a day, so it's perfectly normal to ask new questions, visit, joke and answer old questions using the existing threads. If you wait to get in a new thread, you'll be waiting til hel freezes over.

[cindi]

When I went into treatment they used clonidine to help me detox....not only is it a med for BP as susan said but the docs told me it does cut doen on withdrawal symptoms to a certain degree......cin

[butterbean]

Hi everyone.  This is the first time i have read all of this.  I am coming off vicodin and percocet after 6 years and I never intend to take it again.  Let me tell you why!  After Tuesday's tragedy and the lives lost in the terrosits attacks, I said, How can I keep doing this to myself and to my love ones who don't even know about my addiction.  I know I sound strong, we all are, it just takes really wanting to love oneself and feel the air on your face without being high on a painkiller.  I started taking them 6 years ago for a severe back problem, which I still have.  I will do anything ,but, take them anymore.  Withdrawal of course is hell.  Every 3 months when I run out I go through withdrawal at least once.  I don't ask my doctor for more, I don't want him to think I am addicted, but, of course, I am.  WE all know it.  I am now in day 5 and the diaherra finally stopped.  The burning in my head and body has stopped and the sneezing is better.  yes, they make you feel good, but, they keep you in a state of something you really aren't.  Hey, no matter who we are, we are all good people.  Americans, some or most of us.  I am going to love myself for who I am.  Isn't this why some or most of us get addicted anyhow.  We like who we become with the narcotic.  If we are shy like me, we can talk to everyone, anyone, without anxiety.  Well, I am going back to the way God made me and I am staying there.  I have grown children, grandchildren.  I never want this to happen to them.  I don't want them to know it happened to me, so I am stopping now for good.  I can and will do it.  I am determined.  I am praying for all of you.  Just say you are bettr than that and want to live, a life without narcotics.  If the persons really close to us knew all we do, would they still respect us, want us.  I don't want to risk knowing they may not.  I work full-time and have functioned well on these drugs.  But, these are drugs that hurt us, our families, our mental and social health.  You can stop, you just have to be ready.  Let knowing that those people who died last Tuesday make you believe in yourself. They didn't have a chance, WE DO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Love all of you.  Will pray for all of you.  Let me know how you are!
Butterbean

[OxyDout]

Hi everyone, I recently noticed all your postings and had to write.  I have had 6 knee surgeries, two reconstructive.  I started with vicoden and percoset and slowly went to buying drugs on the street, mainly Oxy-contin.  I always thought I was fine, until I realized I was taking about 120mg a day sometimes less sometimes more.  Never mind the money I was spending, I am completely dependant on them.  I just recently started taking 5-10mg of methadone and it has worked well.  I'm on my 5th day without oc's and my 1st without methadone.  I feel fine physically but mentally I want to go back and buy more oxycontin.  I NEED ADVISE SOON!!