Vicodin withdrawl

[samar]

I have been taking Vicodin/Tylenol 3 for a long time and am going to stop today.  I am planning to incorporate accupuncture, massage, steam bath, herbal supplements, homeopathy, and nutritional supplements. I have not tapered down. Some of what I have read regarding the withdrawl is really scary.  Is it absolute that it is going to be hell?  Is it possible to get through it in 4-5 days?  Is there a forum here in which you can talk to someone?  I would really appreciate some feedback.  Thank you, Ali

[hellbent]

Please post how much you take daily, and how long u have been taking it.

[janipie]

I was taking up to 40 vics a day. My physical w/d's lasted about 10 day. I believe everyone is different and you have implemented a good plan. I didn't have one other than to go cold-turkey. It wasn't pleasant but looking back (27 months)...those memories of going thru w/d help keep me clean today. Do you have a plan for the psychological aspect of w/d's?? That's when the work starts!!!!
jan

[alexandra_r]

I am experiencing mild withdrawal from vicodin right now.  This was my 3rd day without it and yesterday (the 2nd day) was the worst.  I am feeling strong, though.  I have been having a bad back all day long and still have the resolution that I want to try living without painkillers.  I hope this feeling of lethargy will go away soon, though--I didn't even feel like getting off the couch all day.  Finally, around 3:00, I walked down to the beach and that was pretty therapeutic.  I am glad I tapered, because I know this could be so much worse.  . . . . Life is still beautiful and I am looking forward to tomorrow.

[1fortheroad]

i'm not sure what you mean when you say "is there a forum in which you can talk with someone" - that is basically what this is.  there used to be a dr. that answered questions, but he is no longer around.  you will find that fellow addicts have very useful info, plus much more empathy than any dr.

is sounds like you have so good plans in place. do you have family/friend's support?  that is so important.  do you have a dr. that can help you as well?  i don't know how much you've been taking, but they say physical symptoms can be over in 4-5 days.  i have never found that to be the case for me.  i ultimately used buprenex to get thru w/d.  cold turkey was not working for me nor was tapering.

look up "thomas' recipe" on this forum.  it is a recipe of many vitamins and herbs that SO many people swear by...

nothing is an "absolute" as you asked, however, w/d is usually not a fun thing...it depends on how much you've been taking, how long you've been using, how many times you've tried to stop, and what you have on hand to help.  you can do this tho...you'll find this forum very inspirational if you stay - you'll see that many people have gotten thru it and are much happier people today.  keep writing:)

[A-Factor]

I am the expert on this!

I just finished getting Vicodin out of my system.  I had gotten prescribed Vicodin by my Rheumatologist for my arthritis.  I abused it, and when she wouldn't refill it, I did a bad thing.

You see, I WORKED in a pharmacy, so I just borrowed some.  This went on for about 2 months, until I finally got caught and fired.  That happened last Friday, so that prompted my stopping taking it.  I had support from my husband and mother, and I thought I could take the withdrawels.  But I couldn't.

Your best bet is to go to an ER if you can't take it.  Early Monday morning, I started getting shortness of breath and chest pains.  DO NOT screw around then!  Get to an ER, don't be ashamed.  They will give you clonidine (an anti-hypertensive drug) to help with the withdrawels.  It was a life saver!  Other than fatigue and light-headedness, I felt great.  Once I had the Vicodin AND clonidine out of my system, I felt perfect.

So since I was on the clonidine, I'm not sure how long the withdrawels lasted.  Vicodin doesn't stay in your system too long, usually just a couple of days.

Stay strong, tell someone, get supportive people around you, and most important....Don't be embarrassed!  NO ONE can knock you for trying to stop this.

Good luck, I did it...you can too.

[chasers]

Hi First time here. I really hope someone will respond for me fast! I have been taking 3-4 Lortab10/500 daily for around 3-4 months. I am aware there is a problem and feel really bad about myself for letting myself do this. I need advice how to quit. Can I just stop at this point or do I need to wean myself off over how long and by how much? I know I'm addicted and I know I could be worse so I want to quit now. I do have Klonopin to help with anxiety. should I get professional help or can I try this on my own? Thank you so much for any advice-

[dabby]

I am about 2 1/2 weeks off of Lortab and still feeling very shaky.  I abused Lortab for 4 years taking about 20 -30 daily.  I altered prescriptions for years and it finally caught up with me.  My doctor refuses to treat me as a patient anymore, so my supply was cut off.  I went to a detox center to get off, but the depression is so bad that I am unable to do anything.  I force myself to go to AA meetings and that helps a little.  I am taking some antidepressant medications and am wearing a Clonodine patch to help with the anxiety.  Please stay away from Klonopin if you can because I found out that withdrawal from that causes seizures and can be very unpleasant.  I thought I could detox and go right back to work, but I am in no shape to do that.  I am feeling so shaky and depressed, it's hard for me to get out of my own way.  But I am told . . . this too shall pass.  And I guess it will if I continue to go to meetings and don't use.  I had hoped I would never have had to be in the place in my life to ssy that, but here I am.

[OxyDout]

just stop taking them, your at an EXTREMELY LOW volume, if you just stop the withdrawal will be minimal for 2 or 3 days at the worst!!! good luck!!!

GWH

[chasers]

TY GWH! I feel a little better. As to the klonopin, I have been taking it for like 4 years for anxiety. My doctor has no problem prescribing it and I have no intention of getting off it so I don't worry about withdrawals from that. That is just something I need and i accept that.Thanks for the advice-Chasers

[killer_B]

I just found out my girlfriend may be addicted to vicodan, and I'd like to find out some info to know how concerned I should be and what I/she can do.  She's been taking it nearly everyday for about 3 years now on alternating prescriptions from 3 different doctors for pain from an ankle injury and surgery (she has no cartiledge left in one ankle).  The prescription's for 1 a day; she said she normally takes 2 or 3.  She's in the middle of a major crisis in her life right now that has her severely worried and depressed, and there's nothing she can do about it but wait for the outcome in about a month.  She said she's been taking about 4 - 6 a day since this crisis came up to mellow out and keep from getting too strung up about it.  I think I can believe her about the amount she's taking, but I'm not sure.  She's a very strong-willed woman, and I know if I bring it up from a standpoint that she may have a problem, she'll completely deny it...even though she admitted being addicted to it.  I also know that if I do bring this up to her, now's not the time with what she's going through.  At the same time, I expect that once this crisis is resolved she's going to be in a very depressed state for awhile, which will probably make her want to keep taking them.  She's been alot more withdrawn and depressed lately, which I attributed to what she's going through, but now I'm not sure.  And this may be nothing, but I've never seen anyone who can sleep as hard as she can!!  Once she lies down and gets sleepy, it's all over -- NOTHING can wake her up.  I don't really know anything about this issue and I'd like to get some advice.  Is the doseage she's taking enough to worry about?  Are there long-term health affects this could cause? (she had ovarian cancer about 5 years ago)  I would greatly appreciate some advice!!

[chasers]

Hi. Thank You again for the advice...I need to know though, when I asked for advice, I still was taking thr lortab10 3-4 daily. And I still am. I know you say its a low dose but I am still scared to quit. I have anxiety anyway so I'm really afrais when I quit I will have awful panic attacks. Is it possible even with the small doses I am on that I might have to get help to get off these? And also, ven though my dosage hasn't increased, the longer I take them will it be harder still? Thank Yuo so mUch for your time!

[Pennyboy]

In my years of experience in hydrocodone relapse and recovery, I assure that at the dose you mentioned (3-4 10mg daily) you will have minimal withdrawal symtoms. I wouldnt expect it to be more than a mild cold symptomology. DOnt be affraid of it at the level your at. The anxiety and fear your experiencing will go away after you stop for about 4 days. Clonidine 0.1mg four times daily helped me kick the drug when I was at your level. My last outing I was taking 40 10mg daily for months on end. I got clean and so can you. I've been thru hell and back and understand your fears. I'll be glad to be of any support that I can. Shoot straight with your doc and it will get better. Above all else, shoot straight with yourself. The real trick to this and all drugs isnt quiting, its STAYING quit.

[chasers]

Thank You! Tou have made me feel much better! Gosh, I feel like if you caould quit at the amount yuo were taking, then I shouldn't have it that bad!! Thanks again!!

[Sturgil]

The level that yourgirlfriend is taking is nothing to overcome. Like others said, 3 to 4 days for the DT's and 2 weeks to 3 for the emontional rollercoaster. I was on 15 to 18 10/500 plus 15 Soma's daily. I did it with NO rehab or other drugs. Today is day 38 of being clean. I have lost the urge to use. It does come at times but leaves very fast. Let her read this board! Us addicts are strong in numbers, we have all felt the pain, had the problems and made up reasons and pain to pick up the drug again. I hate to say this but she needs to feel the pain, if you keep her from hitting the hard pain she will NOT quit. God will not allow us to have more on us than we can handle, God also gives us a way out ut only if we ask HIM to help.

Get her to the local NA meeting, if you can not find it look in the phone book for AA and they will direct you. Or visit www.na.org I think.

This is my second time to quit. When she does quit she will try to fill the hole the drugs left. I had an affair, others drink (not good), others work to much, others eat. See the pattern? Only God can fill the hole. The first time I did not turn to GOD.

Ask around here in the thread, they will tell you. When the pain of using is bad enough she will quit. She will see that one pill is too many and 1000 is NEVER enough. God Speed my friend. Get her here to read so she cab draw strenght from our stories. Right now she feels alone and thinks she is the only one in world with this problem.

Sturgil Flockin

[mammy]

Hi everyone...I need some advice on vicodan addiction...I have severe migraines and back pain that started a few years ago, that's when I started taking pain meds. I recently started seeing a pain management Doc who has put me on 120 vicodan ES a day, as well as Topomax (topamax), Topamil, and Valium. I went through w/d from valium a couple of years ago so I don't take it now unless I absolutely have to. The problem is I am taking up to 8-10 vicodan a day. I want to stop taking them, but I know I can't do it cold turkey, I also can't let my husband know what is going on so I will have no support. I have no other family where I live. I tried tapering off before but I didn't succeed, I don't think I was ready. I'm just afraid if I tell my Doc how many I am taking he won't help me to get off them, and he's all I have to help me through it. I really want to quit taking them...Do you have any advice of what I can do.

[Sturgil]

Read the post before yours that I wrote. Hydrocodone WD's can NOT kill you but valium WD's can cause serious problems. Tapperings does not work. Do not drink any beer or other stuff. Tons of water and find a local NA meeting. This could be your last chance to get clean. I spent years on tabs and somas. It is the pain great enough? Mine was. read my last post ... it is about 2 up from here. God's Speed



Sturgil

[samar]

I disagree about tapering.........definitely disagree.  I did it and it totally WORKED!!  If you post again I will give you full detail.  I hope you do  :)

[mammy]

Thanks for the advice...I am not using the valium very much, maybe 1 5mg tab once a month if the pain gets really bad. I used to take one a day but I got pregnant and had to stop taking it immediately and I went through terrible withdrawl. It's the Vicodan I need to stop taking, but because I went through such bad w/d from taking j ust 1 valium a day I am really scared of the w/d from Vicodan, and I don't know how I will be able to get to any NA meetings without my husband knowing. I tried to talk to my Dr about it today, I told him how much I'm taking but he just switched me from Vicodan to Percocet...I don't hink he's really listening

[Felony]

Hi.  
First time here.  I have iter..cystisis of the bladder and causes unbelievalbe pain through the day.  I take aoubt 8 vicopropen daily.  I've been doing that since Feb.  And it's now Oct.  I'm not sure if I need them anymore, but every time I try to stop using them I hurt.  It may be mental.  I want to stop, but I feel so much nicer when I'm on them.  Can anyone help?

[rinconmann]

HELP?????????????

Came off a year of Methadone starting from 35mg to 5-7 mg after a year on the program. I got addicted to buprenophine as a buddy gave me extra meds cause he was in an experimental program for a year. anyways, did a year of 4-8 mg of bup then very very hard WD's from that so ended up in Meth program. Quit on the 5-7 mg and did ativan and clonadine for a week. I thought I was home free after a week. Um......when 7 days passed and the ativan ran out, God I had the worst brain screw, shakey leg (Elvis) and BAD lower back pain. After 13 days the back pain was so bad and insomina I went to the Doc and got Norco (10/325) to deal with it.

Iv'e worked so so hard to get clean. I'm worried that the back pain is chronic or part of the WD's????????

Does lower back pain come from the WD's?????

How long will it last and how long will the brain **** last????

I'm taking 3 norco a day and have for 10 days. I plan to go to 2 for 10 days then 1 for 10 days then go to 5mg of hydro a day for 10 days then DONE.

I'm so scared about the back pain and the brain thing. I have to run a company and be a dad.

Help?!!!!!!!!!! Post or e-mail me please.  ***@****

Thanks

[athena]

Hi
I am very unfamiliar with meth and norcomyself,but if you post at the top you will get responses from people that have experience with all that you mentioned.Welcome and good luck.

pixi

[rinconmann]

Thanks alot for the tip. I did post at the top and hope to get help. This is a great forum. J

[FEELING BAD]

Hello all,

I've been taking vicodin for 2 months now.  I had really bad back problems and was given Vicodin.  I started with 500 mg. and ended taking 750 mg of 6 -7 tablets a day.  I decided to stop because I couldn't believe now much I needed it to do my daily functions.  I would constantly count how many pills I would have left before I could get another perscription.  I even found web site that I could get it from over seas and realized that this was getting out of hand.  It's been three days with out taking a pill and am still feeling bad.  It's not as bad as the first few days, but it's getting better.  I promised myself I will never request this drug for pain because it's too too addictive.  I never meant to get hooked, but it just happened.  Not only am I going thoough withdrawals, but I also have a cold and get very depressed during the cold season.  These combination of these three things has really put a burden on my.  Today I am finally doing things around this house and trying to get back to normal.  For anyone out there who is interested I stronly suggest if you ever need pain medication I would only use Tylenol 3 since it's not as addictive.  I may be wrong, but this is just from experience.  Good Luck to everyone.

[DWC]

Hi all. I've been on Vicodin since May 2002 and my dosages have been slowly increasing since then to where I am now on 3 or so tabs of Vicodin XS (the high octane one) per day for pain relief from my trigeminal neuralgia.

This past week, after having this script refilled (90 tabs) for the month, a workman allegedly stole more than half of them from the top of my refrigerator (stupid me). I filled out a police report, but then I thought, "What if they point their finger at me?" I decided I had had enough. Escalating doses, robbery, etc. I didn't want any more to do with this drug.

This past Monday, I stopped cold turkey. Well almost, when I "crashed," I took a half tab to "step down." Since Monday's crash, I’ve not taken anymore Vicodin and I've had sore muscles, sore bones, depression (I'm a stable 47-year-old-man and I sat in my office and cried like a baby--why, I still don't know). I also had some irritability, nightmares and diarrhea. My next question is, "What have I been thinking?" This IS a case where the cure is worse than the disease. I see NO long-term upside to this drug. Hell, if people will steal it, what does that make me?

Like another on this board, I have an 8-year-old son and a successful career. I am ordering a Bowflex and digging my Nordic track out of mothballs. I refuse to let this drug rule and ruin my life. Goodbye Vicodin!

[teeitup]

Way to go! I am a long time fairly low dose user who recently let it escalate. Unfortunatley I have a med. condition that requires pain med. If you do not need it for long term pain stay away from it.

I'm 42 have a great wife, kids. job etc., out of all the recreational drugs I did throughout my life none of them controlled me, hydro is the one I could not control. A memember called Rex1 expalined it to me the best, hydro is such a well engineered drug it works to good and the side effect of pain relief is it makes you feel good short term! Energy, mood etc.,

Read all the post under each question, there are sevral good ideas for either tapering or cold turkey. It took me about 7 days of tapering from 6-8 a day back down to 1-2 a day to feel so so. Also post under a top question even if doesn't pertain to the question, more people will read.

Congratulations and good luck!
Teeeitup!

[Rex1]

Hey bud, hope your Christmas went well.

Got your email and info and will give youi a shout sometime, just havn't had a free moment.

Day 32 - ugh! Back still hurting, but must admit better than a week ago by a little I guess.

Rex

[FaraBell]

C96 FaraBell
(27-Dec-02)  . Hello To All- First, I just want to say what a terrific site this is. It really allows people with Vicodin addictions to express themselves and allow others in, whereas in "the real world", that can not easily be done. Others who do not struggle with this just don't understand it. People who have an addiction such as this one NEED to talk about it because nobody really likes who they are while they are doing this. Maybe they do in the beginning (remember when it used to be fun once?!) but as they continue on that bumpy road, surely that will change. I mean, who ENJOYS downing 30-40 pills a day or MORE? I certainly didn't. Well, in the beginning, it was great. Here is a pill that allows me to be a Social Superwoman. I can do anything AT ALL....just as long as I have a few extra pills in my pocket. I started taking hydrocodone 7.5 for herniated disks in my lower back. Then, I just damn well enjoyed the way they made me feel. And so I graduated. I moved onto the 10/325mg. That was good for a little while UNTIL I discovered they make 15/325mg. I was taking about 20 a day-7 just to get out of bed and start my day. Finally, when I went to the island of Jamaica and, instead of enjoying the fun and sun, I was worried about my pill supply running out and I could not get out of bed before taking 6 pills to remove the withdrawl symptoms that were there lingering, waiting to attack me within the hour, I finally HAD IT with these "white devils". I got home from Jamaica on a Saturday and I checked into a 7 day inpatient detox on that Monday. I was sick and tired of being sick and tired. They had me on a methadone detox which helped me somewhat. I was still sick for the first 3 days but NOTHING compared to what I would have been like had I done it alone at home. I know this from prior attempts on my own. I went into the detox on 11/11/02, got out on 11/19/02 and started outpatient groups 5 days a week on 11/22/02. I am currently in the outpatient group but now I go 3 days a week so that I can work a few days a week as I get to know the "me without pills". I haven't known that side of myself in a loooonnng time. And more importantly, I AM CLEAN and FREE. Because as long as you continue to take these pills, you are never free, never your own person. You make no decisions, the pills decide everything in your life for you. Everything! There are now some days I feel good and others I feel really bad. And it's on those bad days I hear my addiction calling me to it, trying to entice me back in. Those days are some of the hardest I have ever had to deal with. I never thought I would be able to get off of the Vic's in the first place and now here I am, clean for over a month. So, what keeps me from succumbing when those pills scream my name, you ask? Here's my secret: think of the things in your life that you want to happen and think of the things that are really and truly reachable and tangible. Think about the way you want to be towards your family and friends. Think about what you'd like to bring to the table in the relationships in your life. What do you want to offer to them? What would you like to be able to give back to these people? Well, once you stop taking those pills, you will be able to do the things you want to do, be the way you want to be, give back to others what they give to you, and aboveall, you will actually be pleasant to be around. Even-tempered! Imagine that one?! It will not happen overnight, it will happen slowly but SURELY. Hey, you didn't start out popping 20-30+ pills a day, did you? You had to work up to it. And if you committ yourself to this, you will work up to the point you want to be at. And with each passing day, you will feel better and better. Some days might feel like the end of the world, but that's life. THIS IS WHAT LIFE IS LIKE when you live it normally, without any mood-altering substances. And although sometimes it sucks, it still feels great...to FEEL again. I will be more than happy to help anyone of you and to answer any questions you may have, whether it's about addiction OR recovery. It all goes hand in hand. And remember, the only way you can successfully quit is if YOU want to do it and YOU-yourself- have had enough of living in hell. You cannot "do it for" your wife, husband, kids, sister, nephew, mother, etc...it is ALL ABOUT YOU!! Thank you for reading about my experience. Remember that every day is a journey...and a gift. Stick around and see what's in store for you!!

[BunBun]

I have been taking 1 - 500mg Vicodin at bedtime or after dinner for about 3 months.  If I don't take one I am not able to sleep and I am restless. There is no medical reason for taking them.  I like the way I feel - and have a ton of energy for an hour or so. I have a Dr who I had an affair with who will fill them if I call or I have been buying them from a co-worker - or stealing them from family .  For the past week or so during the day I am VERY tired and have a headache .  I have had a cold.  What are the symptoms of my body needing more? IS that what I am feeling?  I know I need to quit. I just need to know what to expect for withdrawal symptoms

[Rex1]

You are not a very high dose - you may have no withdrawal symptoms at all.  By the way, there are people on this form that would pay money to be where you are right now, and quit from that point to 0.

What I would say to you is that unless you stop your dosage will simply go up, and then you'll have to go through a hellish detox.

Congratulate yourself for seeking help early.  Then commit yourself to stopping.  There are plenty of people here who'll help you do that.

Good luck...

Rex

[teeitup]

As Rex said, if you don't need them don't take them. They will creep up on you and before you know it you'll want that energy rush more often and know telling how many it will take. I have to take 1 or 2 a day for a long term problem and would give anything not to even at that low dose. good job and realizing this early, read all the post and some of the stories will help you understand why it's agood idea to quit now!. Good luck!

teeitup!

[coswathy]

MAN OH MAN JUST READING THESE COMMENTS FOR HOURS AND HOURS HAS  got me to forget taking my regular dose...and I feel pretty good, can I say high from reading, thinking, and trying to put all this forum has into the craw...the variety is endless...the advice is pure, mostly from the many experienced opeds, can I just say in Jesus name-spiritually flavored, not to mention, and I hope not offend or stress anyone....very funny at times...good luck to all and keep writing............coswathy

[Erika_Ann]

Hello-
Ive never posted here before and Im quite impressed of all of you and how you have dealt with this and help others. Im a 31 y/o female with arthritis and fibromyalgia. In 1994 I lost all my cartliage in both wrists and they were fused. That is when I was introduced to narcotics. Never before in my life had I taken anything for it. I have had both arthritis and fibro for 20 years and have always just taken asprin etc. Nothing this strong. Well my tolerance climed the walls and eventually I was given MS Contin (morphine). Stupid mistake. I wanted off and stuck myself into rehab. They didnt help me so I checked myself out and cold turkey-ed it. I did it. But after a few months I went to see the doc and vicoden was given to me. I havnt quite since. Im so mad at myself. But with these two ailments it HURTS. I know I need to stop though. I had 50 prescribed to me on the 30th of decemeber and I just took my last one. THats a problem. Im scared. I need support and was hoping i could talk to people here.
Thanks for listening.
Erika

[lisabet]

Hi and welcome to the forum; SO many nice and helpful people here.  One hint: post on one of the top threads; more people will likely see your posts and respond.  You are very wise to realize you have a problem.  I've been there: gotten a bottle of 90 - vicodins and gone through them in less than a week. The thing, though, if you have fibro you probably need the pain meds; the hard part is taking them responsibly (I realize how painful fibro is - my 52 year old cousion was recently diagnosed with this, after years of pain and suffering, and everyone - including herself - thinking she was a hypochrondiac). Please search the archives and read all the posts; particulary hippee, bodymechanic, thomas, rex, suzieneedshelp, golden1, chezz, bmac, witchywoman, southernbelle..many, many others; some recovering, some still using - but all their posts offer so much insight.  I've tapered from 12 vics a day to 5 in a couple of months, and feel so much stronger, due for the most part of sharing and reading on this forum.  It makes you feel so less alone.  Check out the Thomas recipe thru-out this site (includes vitamins and aminos) - it's helped me a lot.  Good luck, sweetie - you're not alone in this struggle. Love, Lisabet

[teeitup]

I to have long term pain and require pain meds. Sounds like you have a good handle on them right now, I must tell myself to "use" not "abuse" everyday. Read the post, take the hydro only when pain is involved and I think you'll be fine. You've realized early that there might be a problem so your miles ahead of most. Good luck!

teeitup!

[Erika_Ann]

teeitup where are you? Your my inspirtation!!!! :)   Hope your around soon...... Erika

[Erika_Ann]

Hello- thank you both for your comments. They helped. I feel like my heart is going to crawl out of my chest right now!!! UUUGGGHHHH.... THis sucks big time. I hope you will both stay in touch with me. Ive read alot of your posts and feel like I know both of you already.
Love to you both---Erika

[teeitup]

Read the post, find ways to stay busy and you can cut back. It's day to day. Find ways to laugh and have fun, you got to have fun no matter how much things suck! Hang in there!

teeitup!

[Desembur]

Hi, first time here. Looks like a great board. I'm not in this whole withdrawl thing myself. About 3 years ago I was in a very abusive relationship. My kidney was giving me problems so I started getting demerol, vicodin, tylenol 3, oxycodone, morphine (in the hospital) and other things to take home. The pain stayed for about 6 months, but I continued saying I had pain to get the pills. When my x was in my face, I didn't care because i was always floating on something. It's a few years later and I still have been getting pills once in awhile. The pain does come back, thats when I get them, But then the pain goes away in a couple days and look here, I have a whole bottle of pain killers left. Lol. I try to stay away, but itts that feeling, ya know. My question for anyone is, what is the difference in vicodin and norco. I was recently given Norco for back pain, and never heard of it. My liver is not so good, that's why they changed it. Is it the same affect? Less strong. I haven't taken any yet because I've been ok.

[streetins]

Hi I am addicted to hydrocodone.  I take twelve 7.5 per day.  Usually 3 in the morning 3 around noon and 5 or 6 around dinner hour which is 5pm to 7pm then I have dinner and go to bed.  I am the Senior Vice President of a large corporation and do not have much time to detox.  But I have schedueled ten days of vacation and I thought I would rehab during that time.  I have been abusing this medication for several years at this point.  Do you think 10 days is enough time (for the physical I realize the mental part is the main concern and a lifetimes work)  and also does the vicodin cause liver damage.  I am really concerned about my liver.  The last time I went to the doctor about a year ago he said my enzymes were up and I have been afraid to go back and re test.  Does the fact I have taken so many pills mean I have cerrosis of the liver.  I do not look sick, but the right side of my abdoman (liver area) has a dull pain sometimes.  The doc felt my liver and did not think it was enlarged.  Please let me know the liver consequenses regarding VICS and am I too late.
Thanks
streetins

[oxic]

Hey Welcome!!
10 days will get you through the worst of the physical withdrawals(usually 3-5 days after your last pill).  I'll copy and paste Thomas' Recipe which should really help you through the hard physical w/d's ; and after as well.

As far as the tylenol damaging your liver; you are at risk of damaging your liver when you exceed 4 grams/day, day after day(the 4000mg is a guideline, of course there are variances).
You really should get your enzymes run again if you are that worried about it.   It is not a bad idea picking up some milk thistle in the interim, as it is a very good promoter of liver healing and protection to subsequent intake of toxins!!!!

Thomas Detox Recipe

PLEASE NOTE: I am not a doctor, simply a long-time Rx opiate junkie who has had many opportunities to develop a way to detox. This is a recipe for at-home self-detox from opiates based on my experience as well as that of many other addicts. It is not intended as professional medical advice. It is always wise to make sure none of the recipe ingredients or procedures conflict with medications you may be taking. Likewise, if you have any medical condition, disease, allergy or any other health issue, consult your doctor before using the recipe. Thanks, Thomas

This recipe is designed for cold turkey opiate detox. It assumes that you can get about 5 to 7 days away from your job or household responsibilities during which you can sleep, veg and act as miserable as you feel. Opiate WD mimics the symptoms of the common flu, so, if you need a smokescreen, hide behind a bad case of the flu.

If you can't take time off to detox, I recommend you follow a taper regimen using your drug of choice or suitable alternate -- the slower the taper, the better.

For the Recipe, You'll need:

1. Valium (or another benzodiazepine such as Klonopin, Librium, Ativan or Xanax). Of these, Valium and Klonopin are best suited for tapering since they come in tablet form. Librium is also an excellent detox benzo, but comes in capsules, making it hard to taper the dose. Ativan or Xanax should only be used if you can't get one of the others.

2. Imodium (immodium) (over the counter, any drug or grocery store).

3. L-Tyrosine (500 mg caps) from the health food store.

4. Strong wide-spectrum mineral supplement with at least 100% RDA of Zinc, Phosphorus, Copper and Magnesium.

5. Vitamin B6 caps.

6. Access to hot baths or a Jacuzzi (or hot showers if that's all that's available).

How to use the recipe:

Begin your detox with regular doses of Valium (or alternate benzo). Start with a dose high enough to produce sleep. Before you use any benzo, make sure you're aware of how often it can be safely taken. Different benzos have different dosing schedules. Taper your Valium dosage down after each day. The goal is to get through day 4, after which the worst WD symptoms will subside. You shouldn't need the Valium after day 4 or 5.

During detox, hit the hot bath or Jacuzzi as often as you need to for muscle aches. Don't underestimate the effectiveness of hot soaks. Spend the entire time, if necessary, in a hot bath. This simple method will alleviate what is for many the worst opiate WD symptom.

Use the Imodium (immodium) aggressively to stop the runs. Take as much as you need, as often as you need it. Don't take it, however, if you don't need it.

At the end of the fourth day, you should be waking up from the Valium and experiencing the beginnings of the opiate WD malaise. Upon rising (empty stomach), take the L-Tyrosine. Try 2000 mgs, and scale up or down, depending on how you feel. You can take up to 4,000 mgs. Take the L-Tyrosine with B6 to help absorption. Wait about one hour before eating breakfast. The L-Tyrosine will give you a surge of physical and mental energy that will help counteract the malaise. You may continue to take it each morning for as long as it helps. If you find it gives you the "coffee jitters," consider lowering the dosage or discontinuing it altogether. Occasionally, L-Tyrosine can cause the runs. Unlike the runs from opiate WD, however, this effect of L-Tyrosine is mild and normally does not return after the first hour. Lowering the dosage may help.

With breakfast, take the mineral supplement.

As soon as you can force yourself to, get some mild exercise such as walking, cycling, swimming, etc. This will be hard at first, but will make you feel considerably better.

PLEASE NOTE: If you have any medical complications, first check with your doctor before detoxing to verify that this regimen is safe for you.


GOOD LUCK FRIEND!!!

percs

[streetins]

WOW!  There really is somebody out there who cares to help me.  OXIC, thank you so much for replying to me I cannot tell you what a lonely place I am in.  I recently survived the passing of both my mother and father, which escalated my vicodin abuse tenfold.  You did not mention much about my liver situation but I guess like you say I should first deal with the detox and then get to my doctor for the propper testing.  I do have the ten days and I look to the normal person on the street like I am a healthy functioning person, so I have printed the treatment procedure out on my computer.  I do have about 100 xanax at my disposal so the health food store should be able to assist me with the other items you mentioned in the doctors article.  I live alone in a nice house on a beautiful golf course in Las Vegas and have a jacuzzi roman tub in the master bathroom so the baths are doable.  It sounds like I can start Monday and try this option you have reccommended.  My question is, can I post you messages as I go day by day as there is no one in my life here to check on me.  And also how many Xanax should I take when I wake up every morning and is the idea to try and sleep through the withdrawl period.  I am so grateful you offered me some advise I cannot express my gratitude. Thank you so very much. Oh one last thing I know I will not be able to eat so is soup with rice and pork a good idea or maybe eggs or should I just hope the vitamins help.  Last time I tried to stop the bathroom was a constant all day thing if you know what I mean! THANK YOU
WAITING TO BE CURED//JIM

[oxic]

Jim,  you are not alone man!!!
This place helped me reclaim my life last summer, coming off a pretty hefty percocet habit(of many years). My useage peaked last winter, after my mom passed away unexpectedly and my best buddy was murdered Mar.7th. Also had two back surgeries.  VERY SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR PARENTS JIM!!!
I also manage an A & D group for a large oil company, so when i detoxed, i kind of hid around the flu concept.  People wondered about it being a pretty horrible flu......but hey whatever works.
My hot tub was my saviour, during my rapid taper, and the first couple days after zero pills.  I didn't have any benzos, but my doc got me on trazadone(for the sedative effects). You won't need that with the xanax.  Just be careful with the xanax.  If you end up trading your vike habit for a benzo marriage, you will pay the piper many-fold worse.
Drink tons of water and/ or gatoraid. I picked up a great big pail of protein/carb mix from my gym, and made shakes several times thru the day.  Hell even Boost could give you some nutrients.
That kind of is the idea of Thomas's detox....."sleeping/dozing" thru the first few hard physical w/d days.
I check this place everyday(but can't post during work), so i can respond after work, and see how you are doing.

Do pick up the Milk Thistle.  Remember, I'm no doctor, and certainly can't detrmine whether you have any liver damage.  A simple blood test and you will be satisfied.  I can tell you, the liver is an amazingly resilient organ, and thankfully one of the few that regenerates itself. There are some terrific people here, that can be a world of support(and knowledge). Post up higher.....most people don't read down in the "basement"  Don't worry about cutting in on a thread . Good luck friend!!!

Percs

ps... i've been off percs since Aug. 19th. and feeling very good; so please know it's worth it

[peaz]

Hey Guy--You're going to heaven.......:-)

[Thomas03]

Well, 5 or 6 Vic 7.5's at once! A pleasure to meet someone with an appetite to match my own. You're smart and fortunate to be taking time off for your detox. You're also fortunately smart to be addressing your addiction before your life is in ruins. Many, including myself, are neither fortunate nor smart in this regard.

Since my good friend percs (oxic) gave you the recipe, I won’t repeat the information or instructions therein except to stress that timing is all-important when it comes to kicking in the L-Tyrosine and B6. Wait until the grosser of the WD symptoms abate, ie., sweats, diarrhea, muscle cramps, “high” anxiety (apologies to Mr. Brooks). Also, since you mentioned it, the Imodium (immodium), used aggressively, will work like a champ. Not to worry there!

As for the Xanax dosing: the actual dose of Xanax depends on your own response to it. Percs is absolutely right in that the main purpose of the benzo is to mediate your anxiety, help you sleep and, basically, keep your ass in the house and out of the pharmacy. However, benzos such as Xanax will, in conjunction with all the hot baths you can stand, help ease the body aches. You’ve probably got the orange .5mg Xanax. I’d try two for starters and see how it affects you. You want to be pleasantly dopey, but not unconscious. You’ll know more once you’re doing the detox and learn what 1mg of Xanax does to you. You may need to scale it up during the first couple of days, but go easy. Don’t do it compulsively. Remember, the idea is to start on a sedating dose and taper over the next 4 days or so. Read more about it in the recipe.

Streetins, whatever else you may be feeling, know that you are as normal as the day is long. It is the nature of drugs such as hydrocodone to addict over time. Opiates happen to be the most effective antidepressants on the planet. So, it’s not unusual that you’d find comfort in the Vics after losing your parents. The most important thing you must do is to forgive yourself. There is no shame in being an addict. Shame is a condition imposed on us from the outside – and it can kill you. Hold your head up high, deal with your problem, and it will empower you.

And, as percs, said, please hang with us online while you’re going through detox. I’d personally like to hear your story. This forum provides a safe place to unburden yourself in the company of people who understand you without judgments, sermons or lectures.

Suggestion: post in the top thread to make it easier for us to find you. Don’t worry about being off-topic. Fuckem if they can’t take a joke! If you want to talk privately, I’m at ***@****.

Thomas

[MethMan]

Streetins,
You posted, "WOW! There really is somebody out there who cares to help me."

Bud... you have NO idea.  Welcome to this forum.  You're amongst people that know where you're at, been there, done that and understand your concerns.

By the way... I'm just another person on the board.  No one important.  None the less, if there is anything I can do to help you, I will.  You're not alone.

Peace,
Methman

[Thomas03]

My friend percs is also right about the liver aspect of Vic use. I've never heard of tylenol damage to the liver referred to as cerrosis. At the rate you were using, I wouldn't be surprised if your liver enzyme count is elevated. While using have you ever had sallow (yellow) skin, mysterious bruising and/or yellow/orange stools? These can be signs of a distressed liver. A high rate of alcohol consumption in the days preceding a blood test can also cause elevated liver enzyme counts.

As percs said, the liver is a self-healing organ. Discontinue all tylenol products, lay off the booze and start taking Milk Thistle capsules (from the health food store). The efficacy of Milk Thistle to promote liver healing is backed by clinical studies. I wouldn't be concerned unless your enzyme count remains high despite these measures. My enzyme count always fell to normal after I stopped the tylenol.

Thomas

[oxic]

Peazy,  Just read through this thread........you guys(girl) are unbelievable!!!!  I'd say it would be a pretty big contigent heading "up there".....but now that i think about it, you've mentioned me heading to heaven before....... you don't want me dead do you??  I've been wondering how your distraction techniques are working this weekend.  Hang in there Sweetie.....

Thomas. **** buddy, thanks for being here for all of us. We are all very lucky!! Still waiting to hear the "next step"......

Methman: We could sure use the likes of you around here a lit'l more brother!! I'll not forget some of your posts!!!

STREETINS: you get the idea.......we are here for you friend.

percs

[oxic]

Steetins, once you've "come out the other side"; maybe we'll all meet you at your "detox resort" on the golf course.  I always liked Vegas!!!!

[peaz]

Well, my ex is there but we'll ignore him....besides, Methman's footing the bill for everyone!! What a guy!!  (And did you notice how I budged right in line to include myself??!!) If nothing else, you'll need a cook....
   By George, I think you're right about the heaven comment, but the answer is a resounding,"NO!"  Damn--who would help me out of all my predicaments??  LOL You're stuck w/ me,, buddy...  Peaz

[Thomas03]

Hey, pal, where ya been keepin yourself? Good to see ya here again!

Thomas