What is the best way to detox from narcotic pain killers?

[bigmistake]

I began taking pain killers recreationally two years ago.  Last spring, I had a wicked back injury and was prescribed oxys and then time released Morphine.  Completely disregarding my liver and the fact that I could become addicted, I was also buying anything I could get off the street, Vicodin ES, Vicodin HP, Endocet, Percoset, anything generic, and when it was't possible to get my hands on these, I would buy Oxycotin 40s or 80s.  Now I'm screwed.  I can't even get out of bed without eating a pain killer off of my night table.  If I don't take them, I feel like I am being electrocuted.  I CAN NOT FUNCTION without them --  I get cold sweats, chills, hot flashes and nausea.  When I try to not take them, nothing gets done -- I am useless.  The only thing I can do when I don't take them is squirm around in my bed and cry because i am so uncomfortable like a friggin junky.   Since I've been on painkillers, I have become a stick figure, dropping down to 91 pounds.  I don't even get "high" anymore, taking them just makes me feel normal again.  I am afraid and sick now.  I can't go to rehab because my family would disown me.  I hate myself for this and will someone PLEASE tell me how to get this out of my life before I die because I sure feel like I'm dying.  How do I detox from painkillers?

[FINISHED!!]

The first & foremost thing to do is to realize, just as you name describes, it was a mistake. Do not beat yourself down for this. You have come to grips with the fact that you have a problem. This is the first & the BIGGEST step towards recovery. Secondly, you should probably research some of the archives here & figure what's the best way for YOU to detox. There's many posts that explain a lot of different ways we have all detoxed or are detoxing. Figure out if a taper schedule would work for you. I myself quit cold-turkey from a 20 to 30 a day Vicoden ES habit without any other help. This was miserable to say the least but the worst was over in 3 or 4 days. I know that the oxy's are a time released drug so your recovery would take a little longer as it stays in your system longer. Here's the kicker. Post here often. The support here is phenomenal. We have all been where you are now. We know the fears you have & the pain & shame you feel. You may want to try whats called "The Thomas Recipe." This is a recipe of vitamins & such that reportadly works very well with some of the symptoms associated with withdrawls. You sound like you're ready to tackle this problem head-on. Again I must remind you that it was a MISTAKE. Try to remember this. You're obviously not the first to make it & I guarantee you wont be the last. Another thing to remember is that there is a light at the end of the recovery tunnel. Things definitely get a LOT better with time. Maybe somebody with more experience in detoxing from oxy can give a little more insight on a more comfortable way to detox & how long it'll take to feel better. As far as your family goes...it'd be ideal to include them in your recovery but I did this alone. It can be done. But you have an advantage over me. You came here to this forum. We will be your family during & after your detox. Good luck to you Bigmistake. My prayers are with you.

FINISHED!!

[earlygrayce]

i'm not sure what you are on right now, but you have a few options. 1)tapering, which most addicts can not handle and is dangerous (often leads to relapses) - especially if you can or have to by more drugs off the street. 2)rapid detox (a dr. supervised hospital procedure), which is expensive, somewhat experimantal, and an extreme measure to take that many people do not have the money, time or facility to help them go through with this. 3)cold turkey, which is hell, and very unadvisable if you are taking a high dosage of any benzo(xanex, valium, klonopin, ativan etc..), because cold turkey withdrawal from those at high doses can possibly be fatal. however, opiate withdrawl - morphine, ms contin, oxycontin, percocet, vicodin et al. - is, to the best of my knowlege, not fatal, but as i said, depending on what you are taking, how much you are taking etc.. can be hell for a week or so going cold turkey (like the flu except worse in many cases). 4) you can find an addictionologist who can prescribe things that can help you through detox, and make many of the withdrawl symptoms easier. 5)you can go to a hospital - er -  (or a general physician) and seek the advice and possible help from one of their dr.'s.

personally i have tapered - yes i had the stength to do it somehow - off of 14-16 vikes a day, and gone cold turkey from about the same.

and i'm sure there are a few other ways to do so - other people help out with suggestions, or point out if i am wrong or mistaken somewhere. but one thing i do know, is that you will not be able to go through detox of the drugs and habit that you described without some form of discomfort. i am not trying to scare you, i am just being honest. if i can do it - many times -so can you. but you need to be honest both with yourself and more importantly follow through after getting clean with n/a meetings, therapy, a psyche or whatever you feel works the best for you. and if you do consult a physician during this phase for help - which i also advise, one that you trust, make sure you are completely honest with them. completely. i suspect they see this type of **** pretty regularly and having a friend who is a dr. i know that they will not judge you if you come clean. do not hold anything back. that way they can best help you and, trust me, you will feel much better that someone else knows. especially someone who can help. good luck and i know you can succeed.

'hellbent' on this board can also help out with advise. maybe you should try posting a message for him. he has detoxed from one of the worst cases of several drugs i have ever read or heard about. he is brutally honest, and very helpful.

p.s. start eating again. and exercise if you can as well. there is also a recipe on this website called thomas' recipe (containing vitamins etc.. that you can take during detox that is supposed to help) and while i have never used it some people swear by it. perhaps someone can post it here along with their advice. take care and you can do this.

[Oxyclean]

I know how hard it is to detox from Oxycontin. It is much different from other pills because of the time release. It stays in your body from 8-12 hours. I am on day three of no Oxycontin. For me, what I did was taper the meds. I could not do it on my own so I had my husband deal them out to me. It sounds like and felt like I was a baby about it, but it worked. I was taking 160mg+ twice a day for diabetic nerve pain. During my taper, I wear a Catapress patch. It is a bloodpressure med, but it has been proven to help with withdrawals. My doctor was very sick of me towards the end, so I was not prescribed anything for anxiety, restless leg or anything else. I ended up in the hospital twice while detoxing. I saw bugs and was talking to people who were not there. (says my husband). Not to scare you, it will be hard put if I can do it you can too! Make sure you swallow your pills don't crush them. Believe me you will need them to last in your body as long as they can!! If you can, just take one kind of pill. Your body will react better. Drink lots of Gatoraid. Lots of hot baths will help your leg cramps. My taper was 10 mg less a week over about two months. Sounds like a long time, but I am starting to feel much better! Good luck, there are a lot of people here that are a great help. I owe my life to these careing  people!

[bigmistake]

I can't believe you responded so quickly.  Thank you - I am desperate.  I don't take oxys regularly, only when I can't find percoset or vicodin.  But for the last two weeks I had been snorting at least 1 80mg oxy p/day.  I feel like I am dying.  I got so depressed that I decided not to take any since last Friday.  Since then, I have more than once wanted to take myself to the hospital b/c I was sure I was dying.  I tried to calm the withdrawals with Percoset and Vicodin but I didn't even feel them since my tolerance had way surpassed those since I had been taking 80 for two weeks.  

I tried to stop EVERYTHING, but it seems impossible.  I am panicking.  Part of me is wondering if suicide seems like better option.  (obviously I have other issus)

Today I've had only 5 endocet (5 mg) so far.  And that is actually pretty good.  I hate depending on something like this...and I plan my whole day around pills, getting pills, will I have enough pills?, do I have enough money for more pills? etc... I can't take it.

[Oxyclean]

Is there anyway that you can talk to a doctor that can prescribe to you a narcotic that you can wean down from? I found in the past, going to the ER they treat you like.... you know what I mean! You have three choices... Go cold turkey, which I have done off of a large morphine habit. You can taper and have light withdrawals or you can keep taking pills until you either die, end up lossing everything that is important to you or end up in jail. For me, I found that tapering is the best thing. You will find that if you are honest with a doctor you can trust, he or she can help you. I know how desprite you feel. In November, I wanted to take my husbands gun and shoot myself to get rid of the pain. I am very lucky to have the support of my family and partly my doctor to help me through this. Please do what you can to help yourself. You will find out in the end all this withdrawal will pass and you will be so glad you did it. I will be thinking of you. Please let me know how you are doing. You can do it! You will be OK I promise........

[J. E. W.]

I have been exatly where you are right now. This was back in 98. I wasnt snorting those devils but I was poping them every 2/3 hrs.. I ran ouy and started drinking alcohol to try and relieve the way I felt. Big mistake!!! I ended up in detox as know one knew what was wrong but me. I couldnt tell anyone I was to ashamed. Well then I had to go through the wds from whatever they had me on for 5 days. I dont even remember a thing until about a week into it. So if you can do this at home But with help. Its no picnic but can be done. theres alot of support here so hang in there.. Im on day 6 ct from vics. / percs/duragesic patch 50mg. I feel better one min. and bad the next. Youve made the firt step by admitting you have a problem. If I can help in anyway let me know. Ill do the best I can to help.                J.E.W.

[Erika_Ann]

I feel very ashamed right now. I was on day 10 and relapsed. :(
I have arthritis and couldnt take the pain anymore. I bought 16 pills of vicoden to get me though the pain. Now I have to start over. Im so depressed right now. I live in Seattle and when the rain hits my joints ache like no tommorw.  I wish I could move to a sunny place. UUUUGGGHHHH. Thanks for listening.
:(   Erika

[FINISHED!!]

O.K. This is where things start getting scary. Suicide CAN NOT be an option here. You have to rid yourself of that thought RIGHT NOW. Many here have been EXACTLY where you are in terms of the drug use & we can help tremendously. I don't know what your other issues are but nothing, NOTHING is worth the price of your life. You mentioned your family before...I'm sure they'd suffer a great loss with you gone. I'm sure that the majority of the people here have had thoughts like you that maybe it'd be easier to just swallow a bullet...I know I did. But then it passed as quickly as it came. Narcotics are very tricky. They make you believe you're a bad person. They make you feel like life is a waste of time. In my opinion, suicide is a selfish act. I had a close childhood friend that killed himself due to a bad heroin habit...right in front of his mom no less. At the time, he felt like nobody cared about him & it would be better for EVERYBODY if he just left the world. He was WRONG!!! He is still missed terribly...13 years later. Please seek whatever help you need to help you out of these thoughts. Trust me when I say that it WILL get better. It WILL be tough for a few days but you can do it. The symptoms are miserable but shouldn't be inbearable. If they are for you, then you may want to seek the help of your doctor to work on a weaning schedule or some meds to help aleviate the worst of the symptoms. Keep in touch with us & I'll be praying for you.

FINISHED!!

[FINISHED!!]

Relapse is VERY common & you should not feel ashamed. Continuing recovery is harder than the initial recovery. Some of us HAVE to take a pain med for REAL pain. What's important is how much we're taking. You CAN'T beat yourself up for this. Hey guess what? You're human. Don't be ashamed, just reconize your mistake & rectify the situation the best way you can. You've shown yourself that you can beat this & that's a GREAT accomplishment!!! Just get back on that horse, dig your spurs in & ride off into the beautiful sunset of sobriety.

FINISHED!!

[Erika_Ann]

Thank you SO much for your post. That really meant ALOT to me. Sometimes we need encourgment from someone who understands. You really are a inspiration to me and Ive read your posts alot. You have alot of insight and positiveness about you. Which I admire. Yes, its really going to be hard for me to live the rest of my life without pain med. I cant. I have arthritis and Fibromyalgia for 20 years now. And Im only 31. I have a long battle ahead but Im ready to fight it. I just sometimes cant take the horrible pain and need help you know?
Thanks again for the time you took to respond. It really did mean alot to me
Sincereley,
Erika

[FINISHED!!]

I too have chronic pain & occasionally have to take a pill. I've had WAY too many surgeries, broken bones & injuries not to. As long as I know that I'm an addict & the danger is there, I manage VERY well. Thank you for the kind words. It means a lot that I'm able to help in any way I can. As far as your battle...I'd say "WE" have a long fight ahead of us. You are not alone here. I am in your corner & together, along with the rest of the forum, we'll beat this. I know you'll get back on track with your meds & the time will come when you're able to just take what you need to manage the pain. You take care Erika!!!

FINISHED!!

[Erika_Ann]

Thanks again for your words. I agree with you. Its hard when you cant control the pills and you have a hurtful disease as I do. (arthritis). Ive been though 6 surgeries myself and it sucks huh?
Thanks for being on my side. I need that alot right now.
Erika

[hippy]

hey big, try to take thing a little lighter,
you made to this fourm , and there are a lot of people here
who have gone through what you are going through.
i have been through it too, i know the feelings also.
keep posting and read all the post you can.
in the mean time try to take a supplement like slimfast
or ensure with your daily food intake they both have a lot of vitamines and are easy to drink, i took them when i was getting clean of the vikes and they helped me gain some weight and
started feeling better about myself, and thate feeling that i was going to die started to subside.
i used the thomas's receipe also. the L-tyrosine and b-6
along with the mulyi vitamine helped a whole lot..

erika, dont be so hard on yourself,
you are on the the right path.
i i am reading a book about making mistakes
and not being perfect.
it is really good  , it is called
THE SPIRITUALITY OF IMPERFECTION,
by ernest kurtz and katherine ketcham.
you might want to look into it.

peace to both of you , your brother addict and freind hippy.

[suzieneedshelp]

Finnished is so right about your "relapse".  No big deal. it happens to all of us believe me.  I relapsed about one month ago and now i am on day 20 from stadol and day 7 from ultram!  Just dont let it get you down to the point where u say.. "oh F___ it...now i might as well take a bunch since i messed up"  That is the disease talking to convince your mind to use , use , use.  It will try every trick in the book to get you depressed and feeling worthless so that you will use!  Dont be fooled.  Stand up and say.." NO i wont listen to this ****"  "I am a good and loving person who has lots to offer once i get off this ****!"  
Big Mis: You need pain relief as well.  There is nothing bad about that. It is a fact.  Can u get a patch or something that you can control your intake better?  Most addicts cannot taper.  But withdrawal from opiates is unpleasant but not life threatening if you are healthy.  You can do it at home wiht the Thomas recipe.  I did after a 10 year no break habit.  But i am concerend about yur pain issues and need for relief.  Be realistic about that.  But taek control of your abuse by having a family member dole out your pills as prescribed while getting on something you cant crush.  
Peace to you both!
You are taking this bull by the horns!
Suzie

[Erika_Ann]

I want you all to know that this forum is a part of my daily therapy. You all have given me so much courage and strength. And right now in my life thats very importiant. Because I have been suicidal alot in the last year. I hold a special place in my heart for all of you even though we have never met. Someday I wish we could. You people are awesome and I apprecaite so much all the advice and private stories you all have shared. This is the only place I feel I can be honest and not be judged and looked upon as a weak person and looser. So thank you to all of you. I hope I can be here for any of you when you need it.
(((((((((((((((((((((((((hugs to all))))))))))))))) Erika

[scared too]

I am on fentanyl patch for chronic pain, I have been reading the notes by mistake. There is a clinic in Michigan I believe that lets you detox while under anesthesia. If you have enough money to buy drugs on the street, save them up and go to that clinic. they will probably work with you. I just found them today.
I am scared that a doctor will refuse to give me the meds I need to curb my pain as I have FM, PPS, and MS to give me problems. I don't like taking medications but after being on oxy for a while and having to fight with the pharmacist about filling the scripts, I was switched to the patch which has been wonderful in controlling my pain, yet, I am still scared the doctors will turn afraid of the DEA and stop giving me meds so I am trying to find all the pathways I can to help me if need be.

[J. E. W.]

GReat post you took the words right out of my mouth.. If not for this forum I have nobody who understands either. Some know Im going through wds. but not what its like.. So keep up the goodwork and if I can help at all Im here....                                 J.E.W.

[Erika_Ann]

Thank you for your kind words. It makes you feel better to know someone is on your side huh? People here are absolutly wonderful! :)  I thank god for this forum!
Erika

[Rex1]

I can only add to what everyone has said here today.

I will pray for each and everyone here today esp Erika and BigMistake, as well as finished for quick healing!

God is powerful and was a powerful part of my recovery. I urge you to go to Him in prayer.

Doing this detox on your own in not hard, it's not difficult, it's impossible! Depend on the folks on this forum and pray to God for Him to work through you.

Im time, all of this will be behind you. I know this personally!

God's Grace to you all.

Rex

[suzieneedshelp]

This country and its ultra conservative drug paranoiya and inability to address the issues of pain via pain meds is a horrid crime and dismal state of affairs!  The fact that a person who requires pain meds is only treated like a drug seeking fiend is the worse dark moment in modern medicine.  Poor Dr's ( i really have little compassion for Dr's) really with the fear of losing their licenses.  It must weigh heavy on them.  And they are afraid to do anything publically about it because it is not considered politically correct!  If they tried to make an impact, rock the boat, change the status quo, the DEA may investigate their ass!
Anyway...England is much more progressive.  
Peace to you all!
Suzie

[hyjack]

The first question you need to ask yourself, is do you need this medication legitimately?  Are you in pain.  If you are, nothing says that you have to get off, unless you absolutely want to.

If you are taking them recreationally, and you are totally ready, you can set your mind to do anything you want to do.  

There comes a point and time in every addicts life that we hit bottom, or come pretty damn close to it.  Everything in life seems like a bother, nothing is rosy and you just want to stay in bed and linger there.  This is what this disease does to you.  It slowly takes away every joy in life.  That's where I believe you are at in your recovery.  And yes, I said recovery.  It's admitting that you want to get clean and seek help.  These narcotics will not give up on you easily.  They will do anything they can to creep back into your life, and get the best of you.  It's almost like fighting a demon.

My personal advice to you is to seek the help of an addictionologist.  They deal with this every day, and have heard every story regarding addicts.  I assure you that they will help you with whatever your goal is.  If you need help in finding one, just let me know what state you are in, and I will give you that information.  I have a lot of faith in them, and with all the new detox information with Buprenorphine, some detoxes can be very painless.

Just remember, you can fight this battle and win the war.  It'll be uphill for awhile, and the strength  and support you need is right here.  We'll be here for you every step of the way.

***@****

[FrankVaio]

I'm 16 day's clean of OXY's. I was eating and snorting 160mg a day.I tried tappering off but it didn't work for me. I told people in my life about the battle I was going through. I also was scared about what they would think but guess what.....They already knew what I was doing it was only a secret in my head. They respected me more for comming out an asking for help. We seem to look at our parents as people that don't understand what the world is like now. But I'm sure they know more than you think and probably been through some kind of problem themselves. You need to talk to someone fast. People would rather help you then lose you. I started taking pills after a motorcycle crash 5 years ago. I was getting them from my doctor for the first year after my surgery. He stopped giving them to me when I was done with my treatment. But I liked them so I got them from the street. After 3 years I was taking 20-30 ES's a day. After I wasn't getting anything off them I went to OXY's for 2 years....... taking 160mg a day. Now it was costing me $80.00 a day to function. My next step would have been herion if I didn't stop there. So I set the date of 01-01-03. I didn't tapper off cause I couldn't as much as I tried. I called my doctor to get something for the withdrawls but he was on vacation. So cold turkey it was. It was the hardest thing I did but it was worth a week of hell. I still think about them today but I thought about them more when I was taking them....(where am I going to get some, how many can I afford, when am I going to take the next one, What if I can't get some, who else can I call ect ect.........) Our whole life was (is) pills. You have to what to clean yourself up more than anything else. Your brain controls your hands. So you hand will not pick one up and put it in your mouth if you don't tell it to. People can only help you. You have to do most of the work. Everyone here has told you that you need professional help ,,,,,only because it's true....I know I did and still do (with the mental addiction). NA or other support group is a good place to talk to others face to face about our problems. Pain meds are a depressent and they are making you hate life. Thing will be so much better when you stop ,,You will look at life differently... So hang in there and things WILL get better.

[lisabet]

Hi Frank - lisabet here.  I just want to congratulate you for 16 days clean.  I'm so proud of you and happy for you too; I know it isn't easy. So great you're coming back to encourage others---great post!  God bless your heart - you're doing great. Keep fighting that good fight!

[J. E. W.]

Great Post!!!! Congrats on day 16 ct. Keep up the good work. Day 6 for me. Vics. Percs. whatever I could buy. Let us know how your doing.                                                                                   J.E.W.

[J. E. W.]

Great Post!!!! Congrats on day 16 ct. Keep up the good work. Day 6 for me. Vics. Percs. whatever I could buy. Let us know how your doing.                                                                                   J.E.W.

[FrankVaio]

I fell alot better about myself and life. Eat good food and lots of it. Never ate much before cause I didn't want to food to soak up my OXY. I would just wash them down with 6-7-8-9 beers everynite. I don't even drink anymore cause I have no desire to and nothing to kick in. I'll tell ya I feel more alive now thats for sure, People tell me I look 10 years younger then I did last month so I that's a good thing. Catching up on some bills. I have one less phone call and stop to make everyday. The pro's of being independent keep on comming. The only con is the cravings and I'm sure they will be there for the rest of my life but that is something we have to deal with. GOT TO BE STRONG

Thanks for asking ,,,,,,,,,,,,,how about you are you alway's having an argument with yourself (should I.....NO....should I....NO....NO.......NO..NO)

[J. E. W.]

OH YAH !! every ache or pain I think just one phone call and I could forget it all... But Iwant to live.. And I know the road I was on I wasnt going to. I feel alot better about myself now than I have in a couple of years!!!! WE can beat this **** if we all stick togeather..                                         J.E.W.

[Sis1]

Jan 16th - A growing number of teenagers and young adults are abusing prescription drugs, a government report says, with non-medical use of pain relievers and tranquilizers reaching record highs.

In 2001, nearly 3 million young people, age 12 to 17, reported that they had used prescription drugs for non-medical reasons at least once, the government said. The number of new users has been climbing since the mid-1980s.

Federal officials, who released the report Thursday, were promoting their education campaign highlighting the dangers of these drugs when used improperly.

''Abuse of prescription drugs can lead to addiction, misdiagnosis of serious illness, life-threatening circumstances and even death,'' said Charles Curie, administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, a branch of the Department of Health and Human Services, which released the report Thursday.

He was being joined by officials from the Food and Drug Administration in discouraging misuse of these drugs. The education effort includes posters, brochures and print advertisements.

A companion report, based on a survey of hospital emergency rooms, found a steady, significant rise in visits for opiate abuse since 1994.

In 2001, there were about 90,000 visits for abuse of these narcotics, a 117 percent rise over 1994, according to data from the Drug Abuse Warning Network. The largest increases were found in abuse of oxycodone, methadone and morphine.

The average age of these ER patients was 37.

The first report is based on the National Household Survey of Drug Abuse, an annual survey that included 69,000 people in 2001. That includes more than 45,000 people age 12 to 25.

It found that in 2001, 36 million Americans - 16 percent of all people age 12 and up - had used prescription drugs non-medically at least once in their lives. That includes people who took a drug that had not been prescribed for them and those who took drugs only for the experience or feeling they caused.

Among young adults, age 18 to 25, 7 million had used these drugs non-medically at least once.

Among teens, girls were more likely than boys to have misused drugs; it was opposite among young adults. Abuse was more common among whites than Hispanics, blacks or Asians.

The number of new users has risen sharply since the mid-1980s. The number misusing pain relievers climbed from about 400,000 then to 2 million in 2000.

-----
I obtained this article from AOL.
Does anyone know exactly what kind of medical misdiagnosis' abusing opiates can cause?
Also I've seen alot of you mention medical problems you've had resulting from opiate abuse, loss of hearing, slurred speech, is there anything else any of you have experienced from long term use of pain killers? Please share! -Sis

[FINISHED!!]

Hey buddy,
How's the emotional battle going? I was a little worried yesterday. Hadn't heard from you. I'm still praying for you to start feeling the happiness you deserve.

FIFNISHED!!

[suzieneedshelp]

Hey man i miss you too!  Was thinking about u yesterday!  Wuts up?
Talk to us!
Hugs!
suzie

[ladymp72]

First off mistake if you look at the posts from last week, I was contemplating suicide and even tried to do it. Very stupid I have children who love me and depend on me. It does get better and just by being on this forum you can tell people do care and understand. I have relapsed 2 x in the last week but you know what I keep on truckin and know one day I will not need this ****. Take it slow and keeping coming back here. I know these people have made a world of difference to me.

Ladymp72

[FINISHED!!]

Glad to hear that you're feeling better these days & you've realized you're important to your children. As you said, KEEP ON TRUCKIN!!! The time will come when you're able to be free & clear of the narcotics...IN TIME!!!

FINISHED!!

[Rex1]

Going through some really really tough times right now. Depression and anxiety hit me out of the blue! Haven't been sleeping, thoughts of losing it all, you know the whole nine  yards.

I am starting to really wonder what the years of Hydro addiction have done to me. Will this get better - the anxiety and depression? It seems to come on like a physical thing, wiping me out and making it very difficult to concentrate at work.

I hope I do not have to take any time off from work, because the pressures is my life right now from work, home and my back have just been crazy lately. I can't do this much longer...

Pray for me, please. I need it more now than ever. I have faith that God's has put me at this point for a reason. I hope I realize what it is real soon. He has a plan, and I trust him. It's just painful beyond description!


Love to all of you guys....

Rex

[suzieneedshelp]

You know God will not give you more than you can handle man!  And this is the maliase and depression fromthe lack of opiates.  You have not serotonin produciton since the opiates took ove r and wiped that out.  It take s time to ge t it goin again and your receptors to get back to normal.  R u taking St. John's wort?  It helps tremendously! R u still taking your Thomas recipe viatmins?  
Pray, meditate.  and give yourself pain relief for your back.  Wut can u take for it??  No one should suffer pain needlessly!
Peace to your kind soul!
suzie

[FINISHED!!]

Rex my friend,
  It breaks my heart to hear that. You know what has always pulled me out of the depths of depression is exercise. Something about endorphins being released. It's hard I know but like I said it works for me. Hang in there buddy. God said, "I have a plan for you be it good or bad." I believe this is just a bad part of his good plan for you. I'm praying for you.

FINISHED!!

[teeitup]

Hang tough bud, hopefully the roller coaster will straighten out! Be thinking of you!

teeitup!

[Rex1]

Thanks everyone. I will be around but probably not writng a whole lot for a few days.

Hopefully be better over this long weekend...

Rex

[FrankVaio]

Remember anything that doesn't kill you makes you stronger. You have to take a moral inventory and be proud of the things in life that you enjoy. We tend to only think about the problems (that's only normal cause that is that what bothers us most) But you also have to think about all the good things to. I don't know about having real pain all the time so I won't even try to give advice about that. But belive me I bet myself up in the head all the time about problems. Just take 5,,,, go in the hot tub and think good thoughts.......We are all here for you cause you were ALWAY'S there for us

Thanks REX remember your a great person

[afriend]

Im at day three at work commin off oxys (and used oxys to come off herion)and cant take enough benzos here to get rid of that hellish feeling. Guess I aint got much to look forward too. By reading some of your posts I can tell your a strong animal and will kill the beast as I will soon. My care and respect.

[Erika_Ann]

I forgot to tell you "Im proud of you" Your on the right track. Your at day 3? Great job. You should be proud of yourself. It's hell huh? Im thinking about you everyday. And remember you have us all here to talk to. Everyone here is ABSOLUTLY WONDERFUL!

[hippy]

yo rex , i hope you are feeling better,
and also doing better.
as far as the lack of energy that is normal
along with some depression.
if the depression get real bad you may want to get it checked out.
i know you keep pretty busy and probley don't take it as easy as
you should. so take it easy and rember
don't get to HUNGREY, ANGRY ,LONLEY , OR TIRED..
some times we forget to do the normal things normal people do.
after living the life style of an opaite user we have to realize we may have some bad habits.
that is why it is important for us to take inventory
of ourselves and how we are living.

peace brother, you are in my prayers,/////hippy////michael

[Tractorshaft]

Hi All,

I too started like many of the folks here, innocently enough after 2 vehicle accidents in one year, from Perc 5's progressing to a pain management clinic where I get 4 perc 10's and 3 Oxy 20's a day. I also have another doc who gives me 120 Perc 7.5's once a month. I got scared about 4 months ago and checked myself into the local VA for detox. They gave me clonodine and lorezapam to help with the restlesness. The thought of detox was far worse than the actual symptoms, yes you do feel like ****, your pupils look like pie plates, you sweat, have diarrea (diarrhea), mild stomach cramps but otherwise it is NOT THAT BAD! As everyone knows detoxing from opiates will not kill you. Im sure everyone here has had a case of the flu that made them feel worse. After 3 days in the VA I checked myself out. Stupidly I had some percocets left in the medicine cabinet and took some. My wife laughed at me, the dramatics leading up to quitting taking the you would have thought I was preparing to die! I am preparing to quit them again. There is a clinical study here in New Haven CT that uses Buprenorphine to taper. I think 3 days of suffering is better than feeling like **** for weeks trying to taper off. Just like pulling a band-aid off. Do it fast and get over it. A positive mental attitude is the most important tool you have! Just keep telling yourself, its not that bad! Pretty soon you will start believing it. The first morning without is the worst. Take motrin or tylenol to help with body aches. If you can get some valium they help you rest but be careful not to trade one addiction for another! Benzo withdrawl's can kill ya. Hell the funny thing is my neck and shoulder still hurt even with all the meds. The pain is the same with or without opiates. I was talking with a clinician at the research center and said that everyone that had used the buprenorphine had only good things to say about it. If there is one thing I cant stress enough is to keep sight of your short term goals. After only 24 hours you will feel better, I promise! Dont talk yourself into thinking it will be horrible, just keep saying to yourself "Only a few more hours and I will feel better" Visualize every drop of sweat leaving your body as full of toxic waste, every movement another exit for toxic substances. As your pain receptors "Awaken" you become overstimulated, thats what causes the symptoms of withdrawl. Your body has been fooled by the medication. When the receptors have no opiates to bind to them they begin to fire tiny electrical impulses causing your body to react. Soon they will calm down and you WILL feel better. Immodium AD also helps, it is very close to morphine chemically, it also helps relax you and help you sleep. Tell your doctors you are quitting and not to prescribe you any more meds after you detox. I will let you know how the bup works. If you can find a sauna or steam room that helps speed up the detox process. As well as drinking distilled water instead of regular bottled or tap. Be careful to only drink it for a day or two though. It can deplete your electrolytes but it certainly gets the process moving! It will put you in detox faster than naltroxene. Sorry about the book but it feels good to talk to someone about my problem. Good luck to everyone!

Jerry

[suzieneedshelp]

Excellent post man!
Suzie

[rainman]

I am finishing day #12 of cold turkey from MS Contin (morphine). The first few days are rough but you can do it. I kept thinking "how will I feel a week from now" and it helped get me through. I am feeling better each day thanks to the people like "lisabet" and other wonderful people on this forum. Lean on this forum as hard as you can-these people will hold up and get you through! Follow the "Thomas recipe" if you can-it will help. And never, ever let thoughts of suicide enter your head! Try thinking about those things in your life that bring you pleasure (family, etc.) and think how wonderful it will be to enjoy them without wondering when to take your next pill. YOU WILL MAKE IT! There are living angels on this forum-let them help you. They speak from experience. I know you can make it and pray for you and all who are struggling. Life feels so much better today than it did 12 days ago and I never thought I would make it. But I did and so will you. God Bless and stay strong!

[lisabet]

Hey Rex - sorry to hear you're going through such a rough time. Depression can just knock the air out of a person, no matter how strong they are.  Hippee posted about an amino L5-HTP; it's a natural antidepressant (sort of a natural prozac); if you go into the google search engine, you can order a 30-day supply for about $25.00. I can't remember if you are already taking an anti-depressant or not, but Michael said it helped him. I was considering ordering it, cause I had a lot of depression and anxiety, but I talked to my internist and he put me back on prozac (which I had used for years, but had been off of for about a year) - this has been a couple of weeks ago, and the fog seems to be lifting.  This might also be an option for you; talk to your doctor.  I guess we've just screwed up our natural endorphines taking all the vics (brillant people that we are!)...smile.  I hate to see you so down....I need my cheerleader back!.... :) Remember, we are all here to help - just the way you've always helped us.  I am praying for you, Rex. Things are gonna get better, honey, I really believe that. Check out all the options, including spiritual intervention (prayer) to medical intervention (maybe an anti-depressant?) to love and compassion (us and your family). I know you're feeling down, but please try to post everyday; let us know how you're feeling - everyone here loves you!!!  Take care, Lisabet

[lisabet]

Congrats on day 12 - you just keep doing it every day! I am so-so proud of you, plus you seem to have a wonderful attitude, which has to help. People on this forum is great, and a wonderful inspiration, but when it all comes down to it - YOU are the one who's doing it! Expect bumpy times down the road (see Rex's posts above).  It's not unusual to hit periods of depression, as your natural endorphines are struggling to "work" on their own again. If you expect it, maybe it'll be easier for you to deal with. But again, you may just breeze right through it. I think it all depends on each one's body chemistry.  You're doing, great, baby - keep on fighting the good fight - You inspire ME!!!!  Love/Peace, Lisabet

[Rex1]

Hi all.

Man what a spell I just came through. Feeling a little better.

Work stress, plus home stress, plus traffic stress, plus being sick for more than two weeks, plus some mild back pain, and I guess it all came down at once.

You - everyone here - have lifted me up. I had a chance to talk with finished! today right before he went into surgery, and we should all pray for him. He took a spill on his motorcycle and will have ankle surgery today. That oon top of the stomach problems and who am I too complain.

I think that long term opiate use has trashed my nrevous system, because I just feel a lot of anxiety lately. I use the Benzos when it's bad, but don't want another adiction (addiction) on my hands.

Finished's post is so true - God has a plan and we need to have faith that He knows better than we do.

On the worrying, I would pay a million dollars to learn how to stop worrying and obsessing and I now know that that is what the Vicodin really helped with - cutting down the anxiety.

So now, I need to learn to do that naturally as many of us do, and as non druggies (aka normal people) do.

Thanks for your prayers today gang. I know you guys have problems of your own, so I guess that is why we are all here and this forum is so awesome.

Love and God's Grace to all - please pray for our Pal Finished! as well as all others here including the lurkers, who will soon be coming out of the shadows, looking for help traveling that road which we are so much further down than they are. They need us, our experience, and our coaching, so I will do my best to be here to help. As you help others, you help yourself - a staple of AA/NA.

Rex

[hippy]

good to see you are feeling better.
one thing i can atest to and rembering everyone is not the same
but when ever i have taken benzos for sleep since i have been
clean of the vikes, i noticed i get depressed the next day or so after. this is after just taking 1 for sleep.
so i try to steer clear of them, our systems are very senitive.

peace!!!!!!!!hippy/ michael

[afriend]

BESIDES ADDICTION? JUST KIDDING,(I ONCE SAW AN ARTICLE ON VICODIN AND HEARING LOSS AND IVE EATEN ALOT OF THAT AND I DONT HEAR WELL AT 42 BUT HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO LOUD MUSIC AND INDUSTRIAL NOISE WITHOUT HEARING PROTECTION) SINCE YOU HAVENT GOT ANY RESPONSES, AND I KNOW HOW DISCOURAGING THAT CAN BE, I THOUGHT I SAW ANOTHER WEBSITE THAT HAD SOME LONG TERM AFFECTS ON IT(I DONT BELIEVE THERE WAS ANYTHING SERIOUS) BUT IF I FIND THE SITE AGAIN ILL POST IT FOR YA....... COME ON GUYS HELP SIS OUT!

[minime]

I'm wondering if anyone is or has experienced the lack of motivation during/after detoxing?  My mood is such that I don't feel like doing anything.  I once was very into looking my best but now I am lucky to make it into the shower and out of my sweats.  I now look forward to going to bed at about 8 p.m. adn I don't have any desire to socialize.  The only think I am motivated about is redoing one of the rooms in our house.  I haved stripped the walls, primed, painted, stenciled, etc but that is the only thing I've felt like doing. I hope this goes away.

[afriend]

YES,IM AT DAY 4 FROM ANOTHER OXY DETOX, BUT IT GETS BETTER! I BELIEVE THIS HAPPENS TO ALL OF US LONG TERM USERS.(1 REASON) WHEN WE DRINK/DRUG FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME THE BRAIN STOPS PRODUCING A CHEMICAL CALLED DOPAMINE,BECAUSE THE DRINKS/DRUGS IN YOUR SYSTEM ARE TELLING THE PLEASURE PART OF YOUR BRAIN THAT YOUR ALREADY HAVING FUN, AND DOING THE THINGS YOU LIKE TO DO,DONT MAKE DOPAMINE.THEN WHEN YOU STOP DRINK/DRUGS IT TAKES A WHILE FOR THE BRAIN TO START PRODUCING THE DOPAMINE AGAIN.WHEN WE ABUSE OUR BODIES IT TAKES THE BRAIN AND BODY AWHILE TO RECOUP.YOULL FIND THERES ALOTA PEOPLE OUT THERE THAT FEEL JUST LIKE YOU.HANG IN THERE,VITAMINS,GOOD FOOD, EXCERSIZE AND ONLY M&MS FROM NOW ON AND YOULL FEEL LIKE A MILLION BUCKS.

[lisabet]

"The Anxiety Prayer"
          (for those of us who are "worry-warts")  :)
Lord,
Forgive me for trying to handle this fear all by myself.
Just now I give it to you.
Weave it into the fabric of my life, as you will.
I trust you, Lord Jesus.  
Amen.

[Norcoman]

Hey rex, I don't know if you remember me, but I quit taking Norco about 5 or 6 days after you.  I have been following your progress as it gives my progress hope.  The worst part  was (is) the depression and anxiety.  I finally saw a psychiatrist on Dec 29th.  I explained my situation and told her I did not want to take anything that I could become addicted to.  She prescribed me low doses of Paxil and Trazadone...both antidepressants.  The Trazadone really lets me get 8 hours of sleep.  This in turn eliminates most of my anxiety the following day.  I am still nowhere near my normal self....but I can say I am functioning better.
              norcoman

[lifeisbetter]

Posted up here since I know its hard for you to read alot of posts while you are helping your daughter through this very sad time. To die at 16 seems so unfair, and it is so hard to understand why, especially for those who are left behind. Your daughter is blessed to have you there to teach her to not be afraid of death. I really think that teenagers get a "free pass" into heaven...they are still children in my mind. I'm trying to remember a passage from the bible that says something like "be grateful in all things even in trials, for it is through trials we learn about faith and endurance and endurance leads to a deeper faith which then leads to eternal life. Do you know the one? I have had alot of friends lately who have lost a loved one. The ones who have a real relationship with God do find that special comfort of knowing that its not really the end. I thank God for the faith he has given me and I thank him for giving it to you.
Take care,
Kent

Oh yeah and the restaurant in Coral Springs with the nut shells on the floor? Road House Grill. :0)

[very scared08]

I'm in the middle of the first morning of detox from Oxy and vicoden, and I'm having horrible diarrehea and throwing up. Is this normal?

[lifeisbetter]

Yes its normal unfortunately. Try to drink alot of fluids anyway and get some immodium. The vomiting shouldn't last to long, the diarrhea may last a few day longer. Stay hydrated it really helps. Get in a hot tub and stay in as long as you can. It sucks but it is only temporary. It will all be over soon and you can have your life back.

[Went to far]

Hello every one. About 4 1/2 years ago I broke my neck. I have had other broken bones and used pain meds for only a day or two. While after the neck break I had a C-5 bone fusion and my entire vertabray was plated. I now severe pain in my neck and hands. I started using Percocets "AS PERSCIBED" and everything was fine.Then about 2 yrs ago I was able to get my hands on thousands of meds. I started popping percs like candy maybe 30 a day along with Valiums and xanex to sleep. Go figure I used zanys to sleep after all the other stuff. Then it started using oxy 40-80 thinking I wouldn't use so many percs. While I finally stopped using the xanex about 2 months ago.While like everything the pills ran out. It has been 3 days that I've had anything but they have been "HELL" .I am really scared right now! I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO? The pain is still there and I know my doctor would perscribe my percocets again. But I am scared to start this all over again. I was told by MD I would live with this pain forever. I guess I should be glad I can still walk and am alive after my accident? PLEASE anyone have any advice. Thanks

[suzieneedshelp]

Have yuou been to a pain management Dr? I am so sorry for your pain and also becoming an addict.  It is a very difficult combination that many of us suffer.   See on the above thread the Thomas recipe to aid your detox.  But u do need pain relief!  Do u have family member who can effectively hold/ hide your meds and dole em out to you as prescribed?    I bet you have high tolerance now as well. Unfortunately it takes more to be effective pain control for many of us.    Best wishes for your detox and hope you can get a good Dr. to help you manage your pain!
Suzie

[Went to far]

Thank you for responding.I am almost in tears. I do have someone at home that will moniter my cosumtion. I thought I could handle it but you know as well as I do that is Imposible. I hold a daily job and support my family without any problem but it is catching up to me. I have to young girls that I love very much and am trying to hide this problem from them out of shame.I have read all the posts and do not no what pain management is? Nor do I know what the vitamin recipe is? I have quit cold turkey and it is HELL .IT has been 4 days of pure hell!! Thanks again for your respose it has uplifted my spirits today.

[suzieneedshelp]

The Thomas recipe is post C28 in the lortab thread.  It will help your withdrawal symptoms a lot!  AS for secrets from family  we all do that out of shame.  No one knew about my 10 year addiction but my husband.  Do not be so hard on yourself.  See that self degredation is part of the addict syndrome that keeps you feeling low and then it makes u use more drugs!  
ASk yur Dr for a pain specialist Dr.
Best wishes to you !
Suzie

[WisteriaM]

I detoxed from Oxycontin and Xanax 3 years ago, at home with a physician supervising who prescribed a blood pressure patch (can't remember the name of the blood pressure medication). Detoxing is serious business: do not do it alone! Let your doctor and at least one trusted friend or family member know what you are doing. If your doctor is not supportive, find another one.

There were times when I wanted to rip my skin off, but I got through it and you can too!

The thing that helped me the most was going to AA meetings. Not Narcotics Anonymous. AA. It is not just for booze, it is filled with people who have had problems with narcotics and if you go to a meeting, raise your hand and say what you're going through, I guarantee you will have lots of support from people who have gone through the same thing. I can't stress it enough: this support saved my life. I was suicidal, in pain and alone until I started going to meetings and got phone numbers of other people who had gone through narcotic withdrawal. And believe me, I used those phone numbers when I got stressed out.

Now I am 3 years clean and dedicated to helping others who are going through the hell of detox. You can do it! And you are not alone...find a supportive doctor, choose a caring friend, and get to a meeting. It's not easy, but there is lots of help available. And let us here on this board know how you're doing...good luck!

[suzieneedshelp]

Detox is a serios business but there is life threatening difference between benzo and opiate wihtdrawal from wut i have learned.  Thomas or Hippee can give you more info.

Peace!
Suzie

[WisteriaM]

Yes Suzie, you are correct. Benzodiazepine withdrawal is extremely dangerous, and I found it much more dificult than opiate withdrawal. I experienced insomnia, hallucinations, tremors, severe panic attacks, stomach problems, weird nightmares and an overall feeling of unreality, like I had woken up into a nightmare. Withdrawal definitely should be monitored, preferably in a clinical setting. It is never ever recommended that you quit xanax or any other benzo cold turkey - this could lead to serious problems such as seizures or psychotic episodes. Tapering off with medical supervision is the only safe way to do it.

[Went to far]

Thank you so very much!! You are heaven sent. I hope everyone going thru detox recovers. This stuff is the most horrible thing I can imangine. I hope to keep in contact with you(Suzie) thru out the whole ordeal if thats ok with you. I just want it to end!!!!!! But not sure how long it takes before I am my self again?

[suzieneedshelp]

E-mail me if you like at ***@****
Peace!
Suzie

[Rex1]

I am so sorry for your pain and for this struggle you rare going through.

The question that was already posted by Suz is a good one - are you seeing a specialist.

Many of us here were in pain, or so we thought, and once off the drugs found that we weren't really in major pain. You are!

The question you want to try and answer is "Do I have the ability to take pain meds "as prescribed"? Or are you an addict like the rest of us?

I will pray for you, and the fact that you posted here is the first step.

If the addict answer is YES, then realize you cannot do this alone. Tell a friend, family member, doctor or all of these.

God's Grace to you!

Rex

[very scared08]

Hi! Yesterday was very hard, being so sick and scared. Today is much better. I reallied like to thank lifeisbetter for their response. I't really helped calm me down along with the other postings on here. How do you stay off this stuff?

[very scared08]

I am so glad this board is here-it really helps me. You all seem very caring and nice. How to you deal with cravings and comminucating when your're having problems?

[Went to far]

I thank you both for your support. It is much easier to tell someone that has been there because I do not have to lie about anything because you both know what I getting ready to go thru.
To answer your question Rex about a specialist is NO! But I plan to soon. I do have a very bad addictive personality not only in my current situation but in everything I do. Today my girlfriend took position of all my meds. She will help me thru this. I found the Thomas recipe but not to sure how many valliums to start with. I don't want to trade one addiction for another. I have 10mg valliums about 1,000 of them.I am not to sure what to do after the detox live with the spinal injury pain or ???
I am so glad I found you people it is such a relief that there are beautiful and wonder people in this world that are willing to help a total stranger. I am only 32 yrs. old with a whole life of decisicions ahead of me!! THANK YOU RICHARD

[Went to far]

Hi scared it kind of sounds like you and I are going thru the same detox problem together. I hope you pull thru with flying colors. I beleive you will especially with the advise of all the wonderfull people on this post. Especially Suzie and Rex they seem to be both wonderful and knowledgeable people.
GOOD LUCK RICHARD

[J. E. W.]

It does get beter but one day at a time. Im on day 9 and feel pretty good today. I thought Id never make it this far. Man was I sick feeling. Just remember to take lots of HOT BATHS for all the aches. And get exercise. At least a little walk here and there. Make your selves eat to. And drink some gateraide too. Ill be praying for you both. Good Luck..  And God Bless....                J.E.W.

[Went to far]

Thanks for your response. I am going 1 step at a time .I strongly feel I will pull thru all this madness. I have beeen takeing the advice of everyone to make the transaction as smooth as posiblile. Thank you Richard

[lifeisbetter]

Day 3 gets a little more difficult mentally. Dont fall for the "just one won't hurt" thinking. Just in case that crossed your mind. You asked how to get through a craving. When I first got clean I felt like I had constant cravings. I had to do whatever I could to distract myself until it passed. If you wait it out it will pass. Now that your body has excreted most of the opiates it is screaming for more so be very vigilant right now. I relate it to weaning a toddler off his bottle. As awful as it feels for the parent to do it there is no choice its for the childs own good, they wouldn't want braces later or baby body mouth now and they need more nutrition than a bottle can give. The first few nights the toddler screams for the bottle.  After a few nights when the child has resigned to the fact the bottle isn't coming he learns other ways to sooth himself, more appropriate healthy ways to fall asleep. So your conscious thinking self is that parent and your body is the toddler. You must be firm and stand your ground no matter how much it hurts you, remember its all for the better. Before you know it your body will become resigned to the fact that it isn't getting anymore opiates and will start producing its on endorphins again and you will have won a battle with this disease!
Whenever a craving hits sit on your hands, call someone, eat, ahower, go for a walk, just do not take a pill ever again!  Think back over the last three days before your detox and then how it felt during. Most of all I pray. The first real craving I had was overwhelming. I did as I was told and sat on my hands and prayed "please help me I don't want to live like this". The cravings had vanished about 5 minutes later. That was when I had no faith that anything existed as a higher power that could help me. But it did. Keep going it'll be over soon.

[Went to far]

I was starting to feel better then there it was again the trips to the bathroom etc.. Is this common? Also lake of sleep It has been 2 days since I have slept. Is this Common? I will try the Thomas recipe in the morning hopefully it will help. Not only do I hurt from the detox but I am in severe pain from the broken neck but refuse to take any pain med until I can seek profesional help. Please I just want my life to be back to the way it was!

[DubeMechanic]

Yes, those are common symtoms.. some are delayed.. I got a mild case of the runs after about 10 days clean that lasted a couple days. It was after all the other symptoms had left. Not sure why but everyones different.

God Bless
DM

[suzieneedshelp]

Listen... dont be too hard on yur body!  Pain is pain!  Plz do  not suffer!  If you need relief u need it and yu  can detox later!  WE all know u will do it when u can!  I do not want u to set yourself up for failure here.  Yu have some major injuries and need for relief.  I am concerned for your pain in yur neck!
Suzie

[FINISHED!!]

Hey,
I too broke my neck in 95 but fortunately for me, no surgery. I know your pain...to an extent. You WILL more than likely need meds for the rest of your life. Good news!!! This should be your fuel against abusing the meds. We all know, the more you take, the less it works. The question you should ask yourself is this; Is my feeling "high" more important to me or is true pain relief?
I think the answer right now will be a little cloudy. Trust me when I say that these meds can be taken responsibly. My Mom is the perfect example. She has a TON of back problems & is not a candidate for surgery. She started taking the Vicodin Es something like 10 years ago. She started with 1 or 2 a day & is just now up to 4 a day. 10 YEARS!!! She knows that eventually she will need to see a pain doc for something stronger but for now she is living proof that it can be done. She spent a lot of her younger years addicted to illegal drugs so she IS an addict. She made a choice. She decided that living pain free was more important than being high. The time has come for your decision. Make it wisely. I'll be praying for you.

FINISHED!!

[Went to far]

Good morning all I finally fell asleep thank god I needed it. I looked at my face this morning I actually have my skin tone back.
Thanks to all that have responded to me I have really been touched by you all. Suz it seems like I am pulling thru all this right now without the meds.I will try to endure the neck until I seek profesional help ie. Pain Mang. I don't want to go thru this kind of hell ever again.It has been either 4 or 5 days total clean not sure on the days it was kind of foggy there for awile. I will try to go to work this morning they think I just caught a nasty flu virus. GOD BLESS all of you Richard

[InsaneinTN]

HELP ME, PLEASE!!! I don't even know how I'm typing these words.  I'm 46 years old and have "quit" pain killers umpteen times, but somehow...someway they weasel back in.  The tell me lies..."Only way to be normal...only way to do anything at your job...home...only way to brush my teeth!"  I was taking hydro's 10/325 (up to 25 per day), oxy's whenever I could get them, and yesterday, I had 3 darvocetts.  I'M GOING OUT OF MY MIND...I WANT TO RUN THROUGH THE HOUSE SCREAMING AND PULL OUT MY HAIR...but I don't want to kill my self.  I feel so tired...no energy.  I know I could find something right now but don't feel well enough to go looking, but give me two to three more days and that's when it hits...THE WANTS.  They are much worse than the HAVE TO HAVES.  Anybody out there...Please, help, please, help!

[wannastop]

You can do this!! I was where you are 5 days ago.  Read, take a hot bath, just try, I know it will be hard, but try and keep your mind off of the pills!!  This was one of the hardest things I ever did, but now I am glad I did, it's nice not to worry about where and when you would get the next "dose" from.  Just hang tough, the first 3 to 4 days are the worst with w/d but you can do it.  We all have been there we know what your going through, if you have to come back here and read some of the comments.  I did that and that was the only way I kept going,  just knowing that I had support out there helped alot, your NOT alone, we have all been there.  Good luck to you and God bless!!!!  

wannastop

[Erika_Ann]

Hi-
I feel the same way you do. No motivation at all. Thats weird you said you are only motivated to do your rooms in your house. I honestly have been doing the same thing. Painting. Its a start though dont you think? At least I tell myself that. I have no motivation either. I used to take care of myself better too. Not anymore. Life is dull. All I can think about is sleeping and making my pain go away. Just want to die.
Take care-Erika

[Thomas03]

Nice handle! I would use it for my state, California, but it would hardly distinguish me from the general populace. Im 48 and hydro's been my drug for 31 stinkin years. Oxys are nice, yeah, but who wants the hassle? I devine from your post that you are like me, incapable of tapering. That leaves you with one choice: cold turkey detox. It's the quickest way but requires some down time: one work week plus a weekend. It will look and feel like a bad flu, so use the flu as your excuse for being sick. Believe it or not, the symptoms are manageable, but it takes some ingediants and some technique. It's not that I'm smart. Just imagine how many times you go into withdrawal in a year and multiply it by 31. I'd have to be pretty stupid not to have figured it out by now! You can e-mail me at ***@**** if you have questions or need to talk privately. But I'll make it as easy as I can for you and paste The Recipe here. Play close attention to the use of ingrediants, particularly the TIMING. Only one ingrediant is Rx. From one madhatter to another, good luck!

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.

[InsaneinTN]

Please help...day 3.  I am very weak, no energy.  All I can think of is getting more.  I hate them because I love them.  They make me normal.  I can brush my teeth, go to the grocery store like other NORMAL people do.  I always wonder what they're taking in order to do things.  I'm so weary and tired.  I don't like life with the drugs ('cause the old saying one's too many and 1,000's not enough is s-o-o-o true), but I'm afraid I'll like it even worse without them.  HOW DO I DO THIS???  WHAT CAN HELP WITH THE W/D'S?

[Thomas03]

read the post above your last. The answers are there.

[InsaneinTN]

I sent you an email with my phone number...I really could use someone to chat with...no strings, just someone who knows what I'm going through!

[STC]

Thomas03, you seem to be knowledgable about detox from opiates so I'm addressing this to you, but anyone may have an answer. I got my hands on a drug called Carbamazepine (don't ask how). I looked it up on the internet and found information that it was used for WD symptoms as well as its intended use (facial nerve pain). Have you heard of this drug? I am facing detox in the next couple of weeks and can't get any Valium. I will use the Recipe, but am wondering if I can replace the Valium with this stuff.

Thanks in advance for your reply. I hope this is the last time I (and anyone else out there facing this ****) have to go through this.

[Thomas03]

I looked cabamazepine up on rx list and elsewhere and found 1) it's used in alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal to prevent seizure. I don't see any indication that it would necessarily help with opiate withdrawal. 2) per the info at www.rxlist.com, the side effects and complications sound a little scary. You should look this stuff up on this sight and read it carefully. I'm not a doctor, but on general principals I could not recommend that someone use this drug for opiate withdrawal. Check it out yourself, but I would say the risk is too great with no indication that it would help. Sorry. Benzos or conservative doses of phenobarbital are the only drugs I know of that help with the initial anxiety, muscle aches and insominia of opiate withdrawal.

Perhaps someone else here has a good substitute for benzos during opiate withdrawal. ??

Thomas

[Went to far]

I made thru the day at work but it was tuff going thru all this and trying to function like the world is just peachy. I have herd that acupucture is a type of pain mangegment.I am curious if anyone has tried this in replace of meds or any type of organic natural pain relief. At this point I am willing to try anything to take even a little of the pain in my neck and hands and deal with the rest. I really am scared to start over with the percocets I don't want to give my self the oppertunity thru the detox again.
Thanks Richard

[Went to far]

Hey Finished thanks for the post.I only have a few questions to ask you about your broken neck injury. How in the world did you get away from having surgery? Man my surgery was even worse then the detox I am going thru. Man you are lucky to avoid surgery.I had to wear a brace on my neck for a year after that ordeal. I am wondering if you were told by your doctors that you would be in pain for ever like I was told? Also did they give any type of advice on how to handle the pain? The reason I ask is because after my accident I went sraight to a PUBLIC hosp. were I was treated then just basically let go to find what the rest of my life would be like. By the way everyone reading this post You know when you check into a motel with a swimming pool with signs every where do not dive .While the signs are there for a reason.
Especially if you have small or even grown children DO NOT LET THEM DIVE> That is how I broke my neck I hit the concrete bottom now look were I am!

[J. E. W.]

When I injured my neck in 94, I finely went to a chiropracter and it worked really good. At first it hurt a little worse but after a few visits my headaches went away, my neck felt better I could actualy turn my head again. It also helped my back. I dont have insurance right now or Id still be going. If you have insurance give it a try. It cant hurt, maybe it will help.         God Bless........       J.E.W.

[STC]

Thanks for the input. After much struggle with how in the hell I am going to do this (detox), I am going to visit a rehab clinic tomorrow. My insurance has a crappy rehab program. They expect me to get up and drive to their facility during the first few days of WD and sit in the classes. Don't get me wrong, I know that I'll need to get some help with readjusting my life, but I just cannot figure out how I would get behind the wheel of a car while I am so sick. The clinic I am going to will cost me some $$, but they seem to be much more sympathetic to the state I am/will be in. They also voiced some concern (which I have as well) about the risk of going cold turkey from the dose of meds I am currently taking.

Anyway, thanks for the info and letting me ramble a bit. I'll toss the Carbamazepine in the trash and stop fooling myself about a miracle cure.

[Went to far]

The problem is not as bad in my neck  but the pain that run thru my hands. They feel like they are constintly frost bitten and burn like hell. I'm not to sure how to solve that problem?

[J. E. W.]

The chiropracter Helps with alot of things. neck, shoulders, feet, hands, they even say it helps with different kinds of illnesses!!!!!!!!! If you have ins. it wouldnt hurt anything to try.... Ill be praying for you..                                  God Bless.....   J.E.W.

[straightjacket]

has anyone had chest pains , i have been thu wd before but never have had chest pains this is my 11 day clean and thought the worst was over , i worry that i abused my body to much , any thoughts.

[minime]

I'm so scared of one of my kids experiencing what you did.  I used to dive all the time until I bashed my nose on the part of the bottom of the pool that goes up to the shallow end.  I almost broke my nose - blood everywhere.  I was lucky compared to you.  I'm always telling the kids not to dive buy it seems to be something that kids have this need to do.  The schools should hire someone like you to speak to the kids about diving.  I'm sorry you had to go through that plus addiction.  What a rough deal. Take care of yourself.

[minime]

I hear you when you say the only thing you can do when w/ding is squirm around on your bed like a junkie.  We squirm around like junkies because we ARE junkies.  You don't have to be a heroin addict to become a junkie.

You must confront your issues with help from others.  If the help doesn't come from your family it needs to come from elsewhere.  Maybe you aren't giving them enough credit but then again maybe you are right.  Either way you need to get some help and wipe those suicidal thoughts right out of your head.  I couldn't have done anything but go further down without the help I've gotten from various sources.  You aren't weak to ask for help.  YOu are strong when you realize you cannot do it alone.  This may sound corny, but spirituality is key in getting well.  I was a "non-believer" about a year ago.  You couldn't talk to me about God without my closing up completely.  I've had some kind of awakening.  It didn't happen without my asking.  I have asked for help from above and I have told God I am helpless to deal with this addiction without Him.  Even when there is no one else around to hear you and help you with this, He is always there to listen.  He will be the one to stand by you if you are open to believing and recognzing that you are helpless.  Just think about it and good luck to you.  You CAN overcome this.

[FINISHED!!]

When I say "broke" I should clarify that it was actually a fracture...along with 17 facial fractures. The pain is no longer nearly as bad as it was that first year. Lots of PT & muscle building exercise is what got me through to where I am today. I DO have my days. I often get headaches that are associated with the fracture 8 years ago but again, I had 17 facial fractures as well. I was VERY lucky with this. Again, that dirtbike of mine marked another notch. I don't know the extent of your injury but it sounds pretty bad. Like I said before, as have many, some people have dibilitating injuries that will require meds...some for the rest of our lives. Just keep being honest with yourself & understand that you may be a candidate for this. The more you take, the less they work. I believe that a pain specialist may be in order for you. I'll keep you in my prayers.

FINISHED!!

[Went to far]

Hi I hope you are feeling better today. It is a fact kids love to dive in the pool even adults.I was 27 yrs old when this happen.Maybe you can print a copy of my post and show it to them. Even kids can end up addicts unfortunatly. It my make them think twice about what they are about to do. I read your post about feeling sucidal I will pray for you.I felt the same way when I broke my neck. I was paralized for about 3 days until the swelling went down on my spinal cord.Man I just thought my life was over!! Then the pills took over and here I am. It is a horrible thing going thru detox but I beleive a mothers love for her children will concore anything! I beleive you will pull thru.
You may take the advice everyone has given me about going to pain mangement. Best of luck Richard  Feel free to write anytime.

[Esmith28]

Hey all sounds like everyone could use this scritpture... Romans 5:3-5 More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit which has been given to us.

ASLO...anyone who thinks suicide is the answer please please email me..byt brother did when he was 15 I was 13 and it was hell in our family...DONT DO IT!!!! YOu can come out of this!!!
***@****
God bless

[Went to far]

Hey Finished that moto-wreck sounded painful I know the pain I race ATV MX .How stupid is that espesially with plates screwed to my vertabrey. But it's the only time that I stop thinking about the meds for a brief moment. Thanks for writing and Thanks
Richard

[FINISHED!!]

With all of my injuries, I'm just now considering leaving the sport all together. It's tough because as you said, it offers me a freedom like nothing else. Be it from pills, stress, anger or whatever. Be careful on that ATV. If you're into it, you'll know of a buddy of mine named Wes Miller that has torn himself up pretty bad from riding injured. Those quads seem to do more damage than the bikes when crashing. Probably the extra set of wheels & weight.

FINISHED!!

[J. E. W.]

You sound like Evil Canevil.. Remember him?????? He broke every bone in his body at least once. And I just saw him on a commercial yesterday.. I wonder if hes an addict from all of his terror!!!!!! I dont know about that name though...           God Bless........    J.E.W.

[suzieneedshelp]

You must get your blood pressure taken.  Opiates reduce it so then when u go off it goes up!   Be very careful!  
Peace!
Suzie

[suzieneedshelp]

As for alternative pain management methods.  Yes acupuncture can be effective i have heard.  Be careful of chiropractors... find a great one.  Some just want u to come to them forever!  Progressive relaxation and biofeedback are both very effective as well.  I have  done both.  If you can get some barley green powder at gnc it is very helpful in the regeneration of your new cells.  Feeds at the cellular level.  EVen yur bones are constanly renewed.. only not yur central nervous system.  So feed to get healthy new ones!
Peace to you!
Suzie

[wallhac]

HELP!!!!!!! MY HUSBAND HAS BEEN ON VIC 5/500, VIC 7.5/750, MORPHINE 15MG QUICK DISOLVE, OXY, DARVON, TALWIN NX, AND ANYTHING INCLUDING SUCH DRUGS.  HE IS HELPING REMEMBER ALL THIS SO PLEASE DON'T THINK I'M LYING--THIS IS A LITTLE MORE THAN MY LAST LETTER CAUSE I DIDN'T KNOW.  HE HAS BEEN OFF MEDS FOR ABOUT 4 DAYS AND WE DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO.  W/D IS GETTING MENTALLY WORSE ON HIM AND WE DON'T HAVE ANY MORE RITALIN, WHICH SEEMED TO HELP A LOT.  WE HAVE REGULAR EXCERD, BUT SINCE HE HAS 45% OF HIS LIVER ALREADY SEVERLY DAMAGED, WE DON'T REALLY WANT TO MAKE IT WORSE IF WE DON'T HAVE TO.  SOMEONE SUGGESTED STARTING HIM AGAIN ON 200MG DARVON EVERY SIX HOURS AND THEN TAPERING, BUT WE ARE NOT SURE THAT IS BEST.  HE CAN NOT HANDLE THE W/D FOR MUCH LONGER W/O LOSING HIS MIND, SO SHOULD WE TAPER OR CONTINUE COLD TURKEY AND ADD THOMAS' RECIPE.  WHAT'S YOUR OPINION.  PLEASE WRITE US BACK AT THE FORUM OR EMAIL US AT   ***@****
                THANKS GUYS.   ANGEL AND H.R.

[J. E. W.]

I think you need the help of a dr. If you went from pain meds. to ritlin. Thats going from a downer to an upper. Your system dosent no which wayt its going. This sounds very serious to me. My advice would be to seek medical attention A.S.A.P.  Ill be praying for you both.     God Bless...       J.E.W.

[wallhac]

THE ABOUT 4 DAYS AGO WHEN HE GOT OFF WE WENT TO OUR PSYCHE DR.  HE ADMIT HIM AND GAVE HIM 2 1MG ATIVAN AT BED FOR SLEEP--WHICH WASN'T ENOUGH, BUT YOU KNOW DRS. THE REASON WE ARE DOING THIS AT HOME IS BECAUSE THEY DID NOTHING TO HELP.  NO IMMODIUM, NO UPPERS OR DOWNERS DURING THE DAY, AND TAPERING.  IT WAS PRETTY MUCH COLD TURKEY JUST IN A HOSPITAL ROOM COSTING US $1,600.00 A DAY AND HE COULDN'T EVEN SEE ANYONE SUPPORTIVE. THANKS, WE'LL CONSIDER ANOTHER DR, BUT IT'S HARD TO FIND ONE HERE IN HICKVILLE THAT HAS EXPERIENCE W/NARC ADDICTS AND IS WILLING TO HELP.  OUR PSYCHE IS FROM A LARGE METRO AREA AND HE WAS LIKE--WELL YOU HAVE DETOXED BEFORE AND YOU KNOW IT HURTS, I WON'T DO ANYTHING OTHER THAN THE 2 ATIVAN AT NIGHT.  SO, I'LL PRAY TOO AND WITH YOUR PRAYERS, MAYBE GOD WILL HELP IT GET A LITTLE EASIER. THANKS AGAIN J.E.W.  
ANGEL

[a549056]

well partner, everbody is different. i was takin bout 100 to 200mg oxycodone a day, not to mention the cocain, muscle relaxants, etc. couldnt taper, kept relapsin. finally told myself....hang on mu--er f--ker, here we go. cold turkey my friend. i went thru all you described and more. now??? 47 days clean, feelin like a million. just do it pal, we'll be here with ya----
tf

[Went to far]

Hey finished thanks for making me laugh! Most moto-X give us ATV junkies hell. I don't know your friend but I do know crashes on a ATV are grulling. About the only big name racer I have raced is TONY HALE sposered by ESR. Things are statrting to look bright for me again.Man do I feel much better. The pain is still there but I must decide now if it is worth it to go back to the original "persribed dose" or just quit totally? These next few days will be tuff mentally!!

[Esmith28]

I wanted to cry for your pain...I had forgotten about the accident..I think it was my first day here when I read about it and you have been so sweet and concerned for everyone else..your awesome...DONT feel bad for getting away fromt hat kind of pain...Peace

[Went to far]

Hey Suzie thanks for the advice I am really considering alternative pain meds.I sure don't want to go thru this mess again. I will probably try anything before going back to the heavy stuff. Thank you so very much and good luck on your progress too.

[bigmistake]

It is impossble for me to get out of bed and do what I have to do without taking a couple painkillers.  I try, I do...but my place is a mess, I can't go to work...I'm going to lose my job.  I'm more broke now than i've ever been.  My whole life is going in the shitter.  And today I'm panicking because I hav ONE left and I can't get more right now.  and dressing warmly does NOTHING for the chills.  I've only gained about 4 pounds from drinking those Ensure shakes for a week or so.  My therapist wants to put me in rehab but I HAVE to do this myself.  There is no other way....what is this "thomas recipe" that you guys are mentioning??????  Please help!

[Shed Man]

My first day without my vics or lortabs, and I'm really having problems. I had no idea it was going to be this tuff. I was prescribed them for chronic head and neck pain, which I think is Fibromyalgia. But after 21 months of thinking everything was ok, as long as I could stop the pain, my Dr. sent me to a "pain specialist" who basically thought I was trying to scam drugs. I know I was in a lot of pain when I first starting taking the pills, but now I don't know where the pain ends and the withdrawal starts. I only had a few to taper with after I found out I was geting cut off, but I did with what I had. I'm scared to death of work tomorrow.And I'm supposed to sing in Church tomorrow. Any advice? Should I try to get a few more off the street, and taper slower over a longer period of time, or is that just the craving talking?

[Tractorshaft]

Quit while you can, I am looking at the little metal container on my keychain I had a machinist friend of mine make to carry my pills in. I have 3 Oxy 20's left and going cold turkey tomorrow morning, partially because I am early for my scripts and partially because I am tired of the lifestyle. I retired last year from the military after 20 years and have a great job, mortgage, beautiful daughter and wife. The american dream! I had a couple of people working on my house during the summer for me. The stories they tell me about what they used to have! House, motorcycles, boats etc...then the oxy addiction hit them. They lost everything and eventually went to heroin, cheaper and just as effective although I am not promoting its use. **** it, I am sick of looking for pills and its only taking more and more to feel normal. Im thinking about staying home to detox on the Thomas recipe or I can check myself into the VA and suffer with other, the latter probably has much more entertainment value and you have a chance to smoke and joke with ex-service members. I am at over 100mg a day of oxy use, snorted the preferable method of ingestion. I quit for 3 days a few months back without too much trouble, clonodine and a few benzos for sleep at night. Believe it or not Motrin really helped me feel better with the body aches. I think I will go to the VA for a couple of days and finish out here at home. To anyone planning on doing this, burn your bridges! Tell your doctors not to prescribe for you anymore, tell the people you are buying the illegally from that your wife has threatened to call the cops and report them for dealing (Lie). Do anything to reduce the chance of going back, if they are not available you have a lesser chance of using! Good luck, I will let you know how I make out. See ya on the other side!

Jerry

[Tractorshaft]

Hey Man,

I hope you made it, Its a mental mind game. You CAN beat it. Just laugh at it and remember only a few days of pain for all the pleasure that you had. Sorta like paying the devil! Just repeat to yourself, I WILL NEVER LET A LITTLE ******* PILL BEAT ME, ROB ME, AND RUN MY LIFE. This is what I have been repeating to myself anyways! Good luck and god bless!

Jerry

[J. E. W.]

Good to see your back posting..Sounds like a good idea to go into the hospital for awhile. To bad everybody couldnt do that.That way you get a big jump start on it.And can be surronded by people who know what your going through. Hang in there my friend and keep posting so we know how your doing. And your right about be very lucky we didnt lose everything before we figured out just how bad this is. Im on day 17.. And thank God everyday just how lucky I am.. Ill be praying for you my friend..        J.E.W.

[andrew1]

I hope this all makes sense but I need to talk to some people out there. About 2 1/2 years ago I foolishly tried smoking a joint of pure cannabis in Amsterdam. I had an almost immediate reaction that almost killed me and made me feel high for almost 4 weeks. The withdrawal symptoms were terrible. Huge anxiety attacks that were accompanied by nerve pulses and muscle twitching. After seeking medical advice I was prescribed Diazepam 4 times daily. I took this for 7 months not knowing the difficulty ahead when I came to stop taking them.  I had terrible shocks in my sleep like I had been electricuted and would wake with my head twitching in a sudden spasm. Gradually all these symptoms subsided but I still felt numbness in my entire body and muscle weakness. This was until May 02 last year when I awoke in a wild sweat and buring in my arms and legs. I suffered a weekend of terrible sickness and leg cramps and a week of sweats both day and night. At the moment Im still sweating if I become under anxiety  but what is more worying for me is the burning and itching that has yet to fade. It comes and goes but mainly in morning and nights its like sun burn over my body. I was wondering if anyone out there has had any similar experiences as its really driving me insane. I also feel terribly depressed and my head feels like a hollow box. If anyone has any similar expriences Id like to know or at least how long does this sort of thing last as i feel so desperate and alone. Ive tried taking multi vitamins and health drinks, nothing will alleviate the symptoms.  Also having trouble sleeping and terrible vivid dreams.
Is there anyonme who can help....please
Andrew

[dienikad]

What not to do-

Never take speed when having wds. I did it once. I had a hell hole of a night. My mind zoned in on the one thing i wanted - i was a choas mess. Anyone else ever try this?

[Fleet]

I started taking 10perks at a clip for about a year.Then i went to oxy 80 about 3 a day for about 2 years.I just detoxed on wed.from a drug called naltraxone it takes all the receptiors on your brain with the opiates and removes all opiates in 8hrs.It is now superbowl sun. and i am just starting to feel well again.So whoever is looking to detox try that drug it takes it all out in 1 day but feel like **** for well 5 for me now.

[Tractorshaft]

Hey Man,

Looks like I will be doing it here at home, Its snowing outside, I have valium, L-Tyrosine, B-6, Multi-Vitamins, Ambien, Gatorade, Wood for the fireplace, Laptop w/wireless network on coffee table, Remote for daytime T.V., 5 sets of clean pajamas, 2 dogs to keep my feet warm, baby carrots, ranch dip, guacamole, chocolate ice cream and twinkies. Sounds like Im giving a gay dinner party! But seriously, no offense to any Gay folks, just joking about a matter as serious as **** cancer.

I plan to try to document my experience as I can on this thread for the next 3 days. It will be kind of a log for me as well as let others know what a user of over 100mg of Oxy and 40 Plus mg of perc's a day can expect on the Thomas Recipe. I have a positive mental attitude and the tools to succeed , mental as well as physical. One thing I haven't seen mentioned much is the importance of drinking tons of fluids, you can dehydrate and cause other problems as well as compound the withdrawal symptoms.

Did my last Oxy at 4:00PM, flushed 90 Perc 10's (that was hard to do). I dont feel like driving to the Hospital in the morning, supposed to get 3-4 inches of snow here tonight and I dont think my nerves can handle the trip (About 55 miles). As they say in the movies, Houston..were going in!!!

See ya on the other side...

Jerry

[dienikad]

I would not drink coffe either -
I never want to be awake during wd time.

[J. E. W.]

Sounds like your ready to lock and load!! You go for it my friend. Keep us posted as you go.Remember drink, drink, drink,and make sure you eat all that **** you got!!!!!Get some exercise too. Take all those vitamins,and hot baths for the aches..You got it by the tail now. Swing it around and let it fly!!!! Ill be praying for you.. and keep us posted.. Good luck my friend.                      J.E.W.

[Rex1]

Rent Band of Brothers DVD series by Hanks/Spielberg. Very engrossing miniseries about 101st airborne in WWII and "real" pain. Series will run about as long as your 5 day hell period.

WIll help take your mind off of you.

Hope this helps.

God's Grace to you bud!

Rex

[Tractorshaft]

Hi Guys,

Well Im alive, last night was a mother.. Its damned near 48hrs into CT and I just took a long shower, man did that help...I just did not have the energy to do it before now. My wife has nurse-maided me monday and today, thank god for her. I have eaten only 2 pieces of dry toast with a little peanut butter on it but have been forcing gatorade and ice down. Hot Theraflu really seemed to help. I was feeling alright this morning and messed up by taking my vitamins with milk which made me sick..note to others, stay away from dairy! I am feeling better and hope the worst is over (wishful thinking, but everyone's physiology is different) I will let you know. My nurse said that drammamine was the best for nausea andd also helped make ya drowsy. Sent wifey to CVS, dont think I can quite handle driving yet. Keep thinking about getting some dope but love everything else much much more. Peace.

Jerry

[J. E. W.]

Good to hear from you..Terrible stuff to go though..B ut worth it all after..Im on day 19..Getting better everyday.Try to get a short walk in to get some exercise and fresh air. I know it sounds bad but it does help alot..Keep us posted my friend.           J.E.W.

[Tractorshaft]

Hey Man,

I cant thank you enough for the advice and words of encouragement. You got some good Karma coming back to you for what you do. Hang in there man and congratulations on your success! Im staying home again tomorrow but will probably try to get back to work on Thursday. Bad headache now, holding off on taking about 30mg valium to get to sleep tonight. I took them during the day yesterday and think I made it worse. Sorta drugged, groggy, stumbling around sick. It sucked. I would only use for sleep if others read this. I laughed when the somewhere on one of these posts a guy wrote NEVER NEVER use speed when in W/D. I hate to laugh but can't imagine. God bless ya.

Jerry

[JRex]

Way to go, the worst will be over soon!

Rex

[JRex]

Way to go, the worst will be over soon!

Rex

[gami]

Hello.
This is my first posting here and I need advise/help.  I have been searching the forums however I have not been able to find any questions/answers pertaining to my problem.  Here goes:

I have been on methodone then oxycotin and then finally vicodin (for weening purposes only).  I originally started taking pain med's for my low back.  I just had spinal fusion perfomed 4 months ago.

Last month we found out I was pregnant with my second child (12 weeks pregnant today).  I was already in the process of weening off the medications.  Last does was 56 hours ago (on 5 vicodins/day for last five days).

However I am now 56 hours clean of meds and I am still feeling the chills, skin crawling and anxiouxness.  When am I going to start feeling releif?

Is the pregnancy delaying the detox?  

PS.  My ob says the baby is great and there is nothing to worry about and for this I am very grateful.



I appreciate any/all that reply.

[Vicqueennomore]

It is different for everyone but I started feeling more "alert" after about the 4th day, the Thomas Receipe helped me but because you are pregnant I do not know if it is ok for you.
Get the Receipe from under "Loratab Withdrawls" thread C28 and then check with your doctor.
You are doing the right thing because what you are expercing right now if you were to continue the drugs your new defenseless little baby would be going thru the same thing you are now.
Read and post, this forum helps although 3 helpful people were banned for expressing their religious beliefs, there are still good people left here to help get you thru...

[BLUE501]

Welcome! I understand what you are going through. I too had started taking pain meds due to degenerative disc disease. I was prescribed 2 40 mg oxy's per day plus 6-8 vicodin hp per day. Of course that progresed to whatever I could get my hands on. I have been detoxed for 10 days now of NO PILLS. I still on occassion have the chills and sweats. My sleeping isn't quite right yet either. But I'll tell you what, I'm way better than I was. It is soooo nice to wake in the morning and not HAVE to take something to get out of bed. Congrats on the pregnancy. In my 8th month I was involved in a head on car crash and had reconstructive hip surgery and was in traction until the end of my term when i had a sceduled c section. I was put on heavy meds throughout that whole time. The doctors told me that as long as the pain med was tylenol based and not asprin based, it would not affect the baby. My son is as healthy as can be. Good luck.

be safe
linda

[gami]

Thank you both vicqueennomore & BLUE501 for responding.  Just having you respond to my question made me feel a bit better.  I am going to go take a warm bath in hopes of getting warmer.  

Thanks again
Gami

[summer12]

Hi,
I am a 42 year old mother of two sons, happily married after the third go around, who found this board by accident only three days ago. I have sat and read post after post and this morning decided to finally post myself and ask for some help. Like most of you I started the drug route when I was in my teens, using everything from  pills to the needle for sometime.Cleaned up my life with the pregnancy of my first son, only to end up in a car accident that has left me disabled with pain in my back and legs, which  of course has put me back on the same road again with drug use. Was on Oxycontin 120 mg a day for over a year then was placed on the duragesic patch 100 mg every three days with Hydrocodone and Tylox for side pain. Had to go cold turkey a  couple of years ago off of the Oxycontin because of my doctor leaving me out in the cold with no one to write a script. So I fully understand the hell of coming off this stuff all at once. I laid in bed unable to even drink water, freezing to death, skin crawling, heart pounding, blood pressure sky high, which  landed me in the hospital because of my heart for a few days..After three weeks I was finally able to walk around my house for a little while, but I ended up at another pain clinic and put right back on the oxycontin, which I gulped down as fast as I could to make the hell stop. It has now been two years later, and I am no longer on Oxycontin, but I on 100 mg of Methadone a day. I keep taking up to 140 mg a day or more though when I first get my refill, then end up with at least two weeks of having less than my normal dose to take a day, which of course keeps my body in a withdrawel stage until I get my refill, where I again gulp down enough to make the feelings go away. In between all this I am now talking distant family out of their drugs for pain..like Vicodin and Demerol with mepredrine capsules, which I drove over 300 miles to get two baggies of. These are what I am taking after I mess up with to many of my Methadone. My question to you all is this one: Is there really hope for someone like me who walked out of a drug induced haze from the early 70's and 80's  into the "it's alright" if prescribed state of mind? As most of you will understand my life revolves around a pill, I can't even take a shower without thinking about when my next dose is, if I am planning to go anywhere it is the pills I think of first and how to fit the "taking them" into the plans..No One around me really knows the day to day struggle I am in because I don't talk about the constant craving and the constant hell that is going on in my system..instead I usually lock myself away in my room, or something. There are days that my constant image is of me walking off somewhere with a gun and just ending it all because I sometimes feel like there is no hope of me ever being straight.I really don't want to die though, it is the living I want to do..Whatever that may be. I have a very addictive personality anyway, even if it comes to relationships, or whatever so of course that is making it even harder for me. I can't just go off to some hospital for a stay because of the children I have at home, and there is no one to care for them except me, as my husband has to work and family live in other states. Do you really think I can somehow pull myself up out of this pit I have placed myself in and get off this stuff? How do I do that? Would it be best to taper off like 1/2 a pill a month or something..and how do you control the mental and emotional  cravings, because I believe that is my worst part of it. It is almost like over the years I have become some recluse who can only venture out when I take something to give me the courage..and why did that happen to me? I use to be a very out going person, and I use to have all kinds of friends..I moved away 8 years ago and see no one except my husband and my children. I am alone and the strange part is I like it most of the time. Or at least I think I do..sometimes I don't think I even know who I am anymore. If anyone can offer any advice it would be a godsend to me.
Thanks for listening,
summer12

[4mygirls]

Hi there Summer,  Hearing your story sounds all to familiar to me.  I have not been on the Heavier painkillers like you.  The highest I have taken is Lortab 10's  which is still to much for me.  Even the lowest mg's are too high for people like us.  I too am a mother and have no one to help me.  I wish that someone would come and help me take care of my children for the first few days of w/d's,  It gets so bad I can't even take care of my kids.   I am recently divorced so my exhusband is not around to help me.  He isn't even in the same state as I am.  I think that there is hope for you,  your first step was admitting that there is a problem.  I made it two days with nothing and then relapsed because I hated myself for now being able to take care of my kids.  I am new to this sight,  but hopefully I can be of some help to you.  I went and got on an antidepressant and got some nerve pills to help with the anxiety.  I hope this will help with the w/d's and the depression that comes quiting.  Haveing support and help is great if you can get someone to stand by your side and be there for you.  You will be yourself again one day as so will I.  If you ever need someone to talk to or too just vent you can email me at ***@****  This forum is wonderful,  Because the people on here know what I am going through and don't judge anyone for being an addict.  I may not be able to see the faces behind all of this writeing,  but I do know that those people are out there.  Thank you everyone your words have really helped me decide that I want to quit.  The question in my mind now is when am I going to do this.  I can't give a date, but it is going to be soon.
   Thank you everyone

[oxydetox pete]

I live with a chronic back injury/pain, started taking the oxycontin, I was probably crushing & snorting 9-10 80mg tabs per day, got in **** from the doc for being about 10 days early. Went from that to nothing, been 8 days know, and i feel way better, I was a puppet and my doc pulled the strings, no more of that shitty guilty feeling about being early. crushing back pain now but, I cant allway pick up my 2 & 4 year girls, butt she doesnt have to ask me why im sniffing my medicine anymore. Detox went very well with lots of vitimans, water, and a week of nothing to do.

[lisabet]

Hey Pete - Sounds like you've handled the cold turkey from oxy astonishingly well.  Hope it continues.  What kind of vitamins are you taking?  I've been tapering from vicodins, and have just started a regimen of more vitamins and amino acids; it really seems to be helping. Another weird thing - the last week I've cut out all flour products and sugar, and I feel 100% more focused.  Hang in there, and good for you (no withdrawals or anything?)...that's really amazing. Good luck to you.  Lisabet

[StrengthandHope]

I have been reading this board for sometime now with no posts.  I have to say that this board is a special place and I am thankful for everyone of you.  I have been clean of oxys, percs, and vicodin, ect… for about 3 months now.  The problem is that I also smoke herb 24/7 and have a drinking problem as well.  I quit both for 2 months and recently picked them both up again. I am so weak.  I can handle adversity sometimes but when it involves someone close to me I go right back to drinking and smoking herb and I find the desire to do oxys again very strong.  I have had a problem with pills since I was 13 and I am now 29.  All of my friends use as well and I have only one friend who is actually clean and has never done drugs.  The only way that I can stop is to not be around with my drug using friends… I am so lonely. When you do drugs through most of your life you meet most of your friends through those habits. I had a doctor and went to NA meetings but I don’t want to do that anymore.  I just want “normal” friends who actually support me. My family is full of big drinkers and they think I am weird to stop drinking, there is no love or support there.  I spend my nights home alone.  I find that I have become very needy with my only friend who is clean and she is my old girl friend which makes it all the more weirder.  I am pushing her away with my neediness and I need some support so bad.  This is why this board is so important. Reading all these posts helps me so much.   All I want is to be normal. I feel depressed all the time.  My liver is so taxed and my doctor told me that I should worry… I am soooooo tired of all this.  Does anyone have a similar situation? How long does this last I feel right now like it would be easier for me to go back to using.  Is this just part of withdraw? Will the depression go away?

[dohn1]

Hi folks. Just wanted to share  with you my past week of oxys withdrawls. I had been on oxys for joint pain for about 2 years. I started off with a low dose..20 mg a day, and when I stopped I was being prescribed 30 of the 40mgs, and a hundred oxycodone caps a month. My last prescription I ended up snorting every bit of it in a matter of 5 days (a total of 1700 mgs). A day or so later I began having withdrawls symptoms and ended up in a detox center. They gave me a catapress patch to wear,  darvecets, and librium to help let me down easy. I couldnt stand being there, so I left a.m.a (against medical advice). I felt like **** the next 4 or 5 days, but I got through it. It has now been 7 days, and I no longer have any withdrawl symptoms other than some slight cravings, and a little digestive problems (which I am taking imodium (immodium) for)but even that is getting better every day. I went to a narcotics anonymous meeting the day I  left,and I wenta meeting every day since. They have been a BIG help.
Yes, it was a long week, but I survived. Luckily I had a few ambien (sleep aid) and I took one just before bed for about 3 nights (after a hot bath). My sleep is still a little screwed up, but people tell me that in time, that will also get better. I wish everyone the best. Recovering in Florida....D.G.H

[Godhelpme]

During the WD period, has anyone experienced super sensitive smell. Everything smells like death to me. To me it"s almost worse than the leg pain. talk to me. rob

[BonnieAnn]

Rob, go back out to the main page. At the top you will see "post a question". Start your own question and post. This is a very old thread you are in right now and you may not get many responses. Don't want you to feel like you are being ignored.

Hope to see you on a new post.

[Godhelpme]

thanx

[shnug69]

i have been snorting a 15 30mg roxycodone a day, i dont know how to stop, i try to detox i lose my jobs because i dont have the energy to go to work, it even got so bad the roxys didnt do anything and i started sniffing heroin, can someone plase advise me where to get some help

[brooks79]

I dont know if I have a problem.  I know its begining to be one.  I started taking endocets back in may when my husband decided to leave me.  He said he needed something new and he went through a mid life crises buying cars trucks, a boat an RV and decided to try and buy a condo worth moret then our home in some high risers in downtown Phoenix.  Past few months its turned into watson 5mg then 10 mg 512's i believe these are all percocets.  Xanex, musell relaxers, valium anything available that makes me feel careless and less pain.  Now i take about 10-15 pills aday.  The thing is, if im way busy I forget and sometimes i take a few pills in morning sometimes i dont take anything until 2 or 3 pm.  I feel I can still stop.  Can I just quit now cold turkey?  What is tapering?

[FLaddict]

First of all, you may wanna post this as a new question. This thread is very old from 2003, its sure to get overlooked and you will not get nearly as many responses. Just go down this page and click "back to forum" that will put you on the main page.. then hit Post a question. that way it does not get lost..

So you have been using for 4 months.. YOu will probably have some withdrawals. Especially if you have been taking valium and xanax daily. Those are dangerous to stop cold turkey. They must be tapered off slowly.. The opiate pain pills however.. that is up to you.. it is rarely fatal to stop cold tukey unless you have some underlying health problem that would make it unsafe for you. In general though most people feel like they wanna die.. but don't. 10-15 is alot of pills per day. You could taper if you have someone to hold your pills for you and dish em out to you on a strict schedule.
Welcome hope you find some answers here.

[brooks79]

Thank You!  I just did a google search last night and this page popped up.  I'm new at this. Thanks again.

Do you know why Xanex and Valium are dangerous to stop?

[FLaddict]

They are only dangerous to stop cold turkey without some medical assistance. Its due to the part of the brain that they stimulate.

[addictswife]

My husband has been addicyed to oxycontin for about 3 years now, and just now finally admitted that he has a problem.  But by this time, I don't know if I can cope being with him anymore.  The mood and personality changes, the extreme irritability when he doesn't have his fix, his lack of wanting to do anything with our young son and I, and just the knowledge that he's using and lying to me about it, is making me doubt the strength of our marriage.  I love him terribly but am afraid of what will happen if his habit becomes worse.  I don't want our son growing up seeing his father like this and it strains me to even let my husband touch me anymore.  most of the time I feel only disgust towards him for letting himself become so worthless.  He tells me I don't support him and that I make him out as a monster, but all I've done these past few years I feel has been griped at for trying to help him quit, unappreciated for the work I do in our house, with our son and at work helping bring in money to support us.
What do I do?! I feel mentally, physically and emotionaly drained.

[YME28]

I have been taking pain killer for about a year! I only take 5 a day and when I try to come off them I get this feelling in my chest ansity I think I spelled that right! I dont get any pain is that normal? And any ideas to stop that so i can come off these darn things! I dont like taking them and i would love to c what it feels like to be me again! So anyone please help! Thanks Alot!

[bubba166]

guys and girls i have been takeing roxys for about a year i feel like **** and going broke its time to stop but its to hard i would really like to know the easy way to stop the withdrawls and cravings plz help

[traveladdict]

start a new thread. It is a little slow but someone will answer

[Dazzled2Frazzled]

im new, and i dont know where to find recent forums, or how to join?? Help!

[Dazzled2Frazzled]

ok, well i see that my post is here...so i will just make my comment here then.
As I sai, I am new here.I found this place quite by accidnet but I ws amazed when I read all of your accounts. They sound so much like my story.
What most people dont understand about addicts is, we didnt just decide one day..." I know I will get ooked on pain medication and when that isnt enough I will move onto other things...and so on". We take the medication we are prescribed by the Drs. for relief and it ends up ensnaring us.
I am ashamed to admit that I have a problem with prescription pain medication. I have been taking Percocets and Vicodin for several years. For years I suffered with pain from female problems, and I alos have severe back issues as well. I cannot hardly get moving until I have gotten my forst couple pain pills in the morning. But I am getting older and I am becoming increasingly more aware that the time is now, that I must face my addiction and try to overcome it. I have in the past year, tried on a few different occasions to quit...i go a day here and there...and i have even made 4-5 days with just a couple here and there. But I want them gone,..and I want them gone for good. I am tired of living like this. Feeling like I am not in control of me anymore. Constantly thinking about where Im going to get more, and worrying because I am not measuring up.
I cannot just announce my problem, I would not have the support system some would. But when I try to quit, I get so sick. This week I have determined to become very VERY proactive and take the bull by the horns, so to speak. I am going to go tomorrow to my first Narc. Annon.Meeting. And I am determined to wean from a regularly 8 -10 a day habit....down to two... Hoping that will keep away some of the sickness. I get insomnia very  bad....and restless legs Very bad. To say I get irritable is the understatement of the century. I would love it if I could connect with some people here and have a support system this way!
Looking forward to a reply  :-)

[boston08]

hello everybody... i am new to this forum, but i have read a lot of posts, and really think this will help me out. i am an addict.. i have been struggling with an oxycontin problem for a couple of years now... i started using recreationally, and then was depending on them to function... i weaned myself off, and was clean for about a year... but then i had some issues, was really depressed and started using again.. now i've been on and off for ohhh the last seven or eight months... the last month or two i've gotten really bad.. i was up to three or so 80s a day... here's the kicker... i just found out im pregnant. so now not only do i have to do this for myself.. i have to do this for my baby. im on day two... ive been crying in bed tossing around for the last 36 hours... this is hell.. but i know i can do it... ive done it before, but it's never been so important.... i came to this forum for some extra support, and maybe any suggestions, or comments that could be helpful...  thank you everybody...

[Mikeinthesouth]

This is a very old thread but it is good you found your way here. If you click back to forum it will put you in the current addiction forum and someone will no doubt reply to you very quick. Best of luck , Mike

[steve_o_man]

hello,
i know this is an old topic, but i was in an accident about 3 months ago, and am now pretty addicted to narcotics, right now my body hurts like an mfer and i have the chills and hurt so bad.... how long until this goes away, its way worse than the flu... i cant imagine being on them longer and having to go thru this... i was prescribed 230 oxycodone 5mg tablets, and 150 oxycontin tablets that were 20mg each, 70 vicodin, 50 codiene pills... and now am afraid that im going to break down and buy some off the street, this is killing me and i just wish it would go away, i went thru all those in about 6weeks, and before that while in the hospital for three weeks i was on a pain pump being able to push it every 10minutes, also on dilotted, and being given 15mg of oxycodone every 3 hours and 20mg of oxycontin every 8 hours for the whole time in the hospital, my liver must be half dead by now... PLEASE HELP!

[joann1975]

This is an old thread....I would repost it as a new one and you will get a lot more responses....save time by cutting and pasting it! Just click back to forum & post question. You will get responses then! Welcome to the forum....you will get lots of support and info here!
JoAnn

[wishin49]

I know living in a rainy climate plays hell with your joints.  I'm not saying this to make you feel better but, I live in Fl. and withdrawls  can't be any better here.  Tomorrow I'm going to try (have to) going from 80 -100 mg of percocet to just 5mg.  Anyone who has been here knows it's not a laughing matter.  I guess I'm alot like big mistake, the guilt, anxiety everything bugs you. Hopefully this page will help, cuz I'm really gonna need it.

[GoingToMakeIt]

This is an old post. Most of these people aren't here anymore. So do post a new question at the top of page (Post a Question, button) that way you will get your own post for us to answer you on.

[wishin49]

We all feel like that, I know that doesn't make ya feel any better but everyone says it gets better after day 3 or 4.  I became addicted so easily.  I had a cervical fusion 4 yrs. ago from a injury incurred in the military.  To make a long story short, I became opoid dependant not long after the pain was gone. Now like sooo many others I need them just to feel normal.  My addiction was 2 fold since I was addicted to benzo's before the opoid drugs. Thing about it is I don't think I'm still hooked on the benzos, not like I was anyway.  But the opoids are soooooo much worse.  The Dr. prescribed depakote to me when I told em The clonapin I was on needed to be increased.  I'm supposed to take it at night but I'm trying them before bedtime to see if they help with the W/D's.  Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[wishin49]

Hey FINISHED can you say a prayer for me also.  I'm scared I admit it I'll probably or should I say hopefully be writing to anybody on this site for awhile.  Anyway FINISHED I'd appreciate it.

[GoingToMakeIt]

wishin49!!!!!!!!!!!
This is an OLD POST, they aren't here anymore. So do post a new question at the top of page (Post a Question, button) that way you will get your own post for us to answer you on.

[doggielover219]

I can't afford suboxone, it's 500 dollars just to start.  And I've done cold turkey before, and I know that I cannot do that again.  I want to taper.  I believe I can do that.  When I am busy, I don't even think about the vics, and it's really not that bad, I can even go 24 hours.  I'm taking norcos, which are the 10mg/325, about 5 or 6 per day.  That may not be THAT many, but it's increasing, and it's scaring me.  I am really embarrassed to admit this, but I know people on here will understand...I LOVE being on them.  I just don't want to be on them every damn day.  But, I still love them.  I love that Thomas recipe that I read about.  A pharmacist told me I should take 1 less every OTHER day.  

Anyone agree...or more importantly, I should JUST DO IT (as the NIKE ad says), right?  I wish I didn't like the things so damn much.  Any feedback would be appreciated.  Oh, and I am BROKE right now, so anything that costs money is out of the question.  Thanks so much!

[lovemypillhead]

What is your question?

[Nattefrost]

Have you ever heard of Suboxone? Its a very contreversial pill (I was on it) but it wipes away all of the withdrawal symptoms on the first dose. At least it did for me. But suboxone can become addicting too,and after 6 months found THAT out. Cold turkey is a great, brave way to quit, and I wish I did it that way, but when I heard about subs I took the chance and yes I had absolutely no withdrawals. And that was after taking 30 oxycodones a day for a year and a half. Im NOT recommending it, just an option. You have to taper off the subs real fast or you can experience withdrawal from that. too. Like I did. Good luck and get clean! You'll hear alot about it on this site.

[Nattefrost]

Jeez Im answering that first pose from 2003 and didnt even notice the year. Sorry, guys.

[Aprilia1000]

Hey if you are still out there let us know how things went for ya.

[nikilovebug]

Hi
I am 29 with two beautiful girls and an amazing husband, we live in California and have a great life. I actually do not deserve them AT ALL!
I am addicted to Norco, I started off with Vicoden and then lead to Norco. It's been almost 21/2 years now, My daughter broke my rib during my my pregnancy so the Dr perscribed me vicoden and said it was fine to take.
I only take 2 norco in afternoon and two at night, im not in pain, im just addicted! I try  to get off but my body is so slow and achy and tired without them..... PLEASE HELP me!
God bless!

[Perks_Of_Life]

I am addicted to Percocet! I have let it take over my life. I WANT my life back and want to stop using. I am going to try to quit COLD TURKEY! Tomorrow is DAY 1. I have tried this once before and relapsed. I HAVE to do this! FOR MYSELF!!!!

[lost471]

My fiance has become addicted to pain killers, and has told me that there will be no more after today. I know that this will be a difficult time for both of us. I need some help on what I can do to help us both get through this.

[macadoo1]

After 2 major abdom surgeries (colon removed), and have pinched nerve in back. I was finally put on methadose 10 after Dr tried many other pain meds with neg side effects on ostomy. A low Methadone dose worked very well. 3 a day spread out, and I was able to go back to work, finish my degree. But now Dr will not write Rx for more than 30 days. My job now requires travel, and training out of state and he will not help with more than 30 days supply, or post date Rx and offers no solution. i do not know what to do at this point. I will be in N. Carolina right when Rx runs out. I have always taken it as prescribed, but i am physically addicted (4 years). I want to stop the drug, but the chronic pain will return. I do not have a solution and I am so sick of Dr who is only concerned with their DEA standing and license. What do I do?..go to a less controlled pain med or patch??? Taper will work, but the pain will return and I will need to manage it somehow. I have to support family, disability income too low, and I have always worked.I have done this right, and never abused the med, and yet feel I am being punished by a system only out to make money off others pain. What are alternatives because Dr is just not interested in any accomadation and say against law to do anything other than the 30 day appoint and refill Rx month after month!. Any help would be life saving and appreciated.

[JBiggs]

I searched hi and low on the internet to find support. I found this website and everyone seems so nice and helpfull here. I am a pecocet addict. And 2marrow is going to be day 1 of my detox and im scared ********.. So ne help would be greatly appreciated..

[sloppy334]

Hey guys,

Sitting at work on my first day of detox.  It's almost done!!!  It's been like a living hell.  Was taking 20-30 10 mg. Norco's a day.  I'd be lying if I said I didn't try to find some.  Couldn't.  I want to get off these so bad.  Tried in the past and can't get past the 3rd day.  And the Thomas method is unrealistic for me.  I go to work everyday and support a wife and 4 beautiful girls.  Anyone have any suggestions on making this any easier.  I'm sitting in my cubicle and I'm brought to tears by some of your stories.  My wife has some valiums at home.  Will they help with anything.  She is fully aware of my addiction by the way.......   Thanks.

[upatnight]

After reading all the problems you've been having concerning your withdrawals, I realized that you've been experiencing the same stuff I have. As I write this to you I am suffering, I was taking 15 vics a day for about 7 months and prior to that I was taking around 7 or 8 for around 8 months. I too came to a dead end last Thursday when my panicking was especially high since I had absolutely no money and my pills were running devastatingly low.  Last weekend  was hell, from Friday to Monday I was able to go from 15 vics a day to 5 and it sucked. I felt lost but was overwhelmed with determination to beat this habit which has kept me prisoner for 2 years. Yesterday (Friday) marked the one week where I changed my old life and began my new one. It's noon right now so it's been 30 hours since I took my last half of a vic. This past Wednesday and Thursday I was able to only take 1 pill which kind of eased me into this. I am doing it alone and I'm scared. I've been hallucinating at work because of it but only when it gets really intense. Unfortunately, I am unable to take time off of work so my situation really *****. My only advice to you is to stay positive and find other things that make you happy in life. I've been going for walks recently and just looking at nature and realizing that there's more to life than what I've been doing. Music helps a lot and I just discovered something at my local Stop and Shop which is great; go to the isle with all the different kinds of teas and find one that has Valarian root, it calms me down during the really tough times. I can't say that I feel better today than I did yesterday but I know it's only a matter of time before I feel like the old me again and I can't wait. I can't believe I'm actually doing this, sometimes it seems surreal, almost like it's a dream. But then I realize that I can't sleep so it's definitely not a dream, haha. Just remember that next week could be your first free week from these things if you start today and use it as motivation. It's only a matter of time.

[hateopiates]

i am o n 50 patch i want to stop i have clonidine will this stop the withdrawls if i start taking in morning and take my patch off at same time i do not want to go threw the legg kicks

[helpless780]

I started taking strong pain killers when I was 11 and didn't even know what they were. My uncle would just hand them to me left and right. After a while I became addicted and would take any and every narcotic pain pill I could get my hands on. I was forced to become sober from 2004 till 2007 and don't know how I did it but I had no choice. When I had my son on 2/10/08 I became addicted again. Or at least thats what I thought. I really have pain and do any and everything to get something for it. I haven't had anything since yesterday but I woke up drinking just to deal with the pain. Its hard going to doctors. There are always those that will prescribe them to you but you have to be willing to pay and the money I just don't have anymore. I'm hurting soooooo bad and need something for the pain. My husband will only get darvocet from his doctor which he hopefully will get his doctor to call in but my problem is that my tolerance is so high I have to take soooo many a day. It is causing a lot of problems for me and my hubby. Please help

[frank333]

I just went to detox for three days..I was on percocet for 2 years. I tried to tapper of for the last year but every time I took a pill I felt like everything will be alright and ended up taking more. I checked into a 3 day detox program that was free for me because I was laid off from work was on unemployment. they gave doses of suboxen that made me feel normal during the withdrawals. I personal feel if I had known about suboxoex I would have went to a doctor and got a three day supply and did it myself..But that's me, some people I hear abuse that stuff as well. Now I been out two days i feel ok physically nut my mind kind of feels like I quit cigarettes, which compared to those withdrawals is nothing. hang in there.

[thefate]

my name is rachel. i am 13 years old and have recently started snorting pain killers. i had no idea what it could do to you. how it could become such an addiction. i first got the idea from a friend. i was still searching for a release, a way to escape. and pain killers, alcohol, and cutting were three things that helped, but along with that comes the pain afterwards. the pain i cause my friends. my own best friend is threatening to tell my family and i don't know what the hell my boyfriend will do. he probably needs my help right now more than i need him. right now it is a difficult time for me. and i understand where you are coming from. so far, what i read on this website makes me feel not alone. i never thought i could be so depressed. but now i think that there is hope. somewhere. it just may take a while to find it. thankyou. peace.

[StonedOdie]

Man... Im taking atleast 3 - 4 80's a day (Injection) PAtches (100 Mcg smoking them) percocet... I steal them from my mom, she cant stand me right now... I need to become independent. I look on here and everyone I see has it ******* easy... 80mg's a day, going 3 days then feeling bad... I can go fu***** 4 hours... I dont know what to do... My back is completely messed up and im only 19... I was once productive, and got my Sh!t done, now I just work for drugs... I dont know how im goign to detox. Suboxone is the only thing I can think about to do it because im in legitimate pain... I dunno... Im just stuck in a hole...

[mjones5]

Hi, you have come to the right place. You have added to a old post and they may not see you. Please go start a new one so they can see you and talk to you. Many people here have great advice and we all have different ways of getting off the stuff. From tapering, which works for me, to going cold turkey. Please go to "post a question". They are all here to help. No one judgmental or critical. Welcome and I hope you find the help you need.

[jcp227]

Hello, I'm new to the site and I am about 3 days in of detoxing from oxy's. I starting taking pain meds because of 3 surgeries the past 3 years. When the doctor stopped prescribing them to me I went to the street. Towards the end I was snorting 80 mg a day and my dealer finally was caught. I didn't think I had a problem until I stopped taking the pills. I know I want too quit because it was ruining my life financially, personally, and also physically. I recently lost my job due to not being able to function, I had a hard time sstaying awake noo mmatter how much sleep I got.
Like I said, I am 3 days into detoxing and feel like hell.. I have the sweaty chills(almost like the flu), no energy at all, and my appetite is all screwed up ( I have no desire to eat even though I am hungry).  I hope that in a few days I can start feeling more normal and start getting my life back on track.

[missmetal]

Hello - I am new here, too, and attempting to wean myself from Norco 10/325 - I'm desperately afraid of going CT, because I've done that before, but hate being in this cycle of weaning and wanting and waiting...I almost want to go CT and feel the WD symptoms so I know the drugs are leaving my body, but as much as I'm afraid of the physical symptoms, I fear the depression and self-loathing even more.  If you're at Day 3, from what I understand (and have experienced) you are about halfway through your detox - I hope you're drinking lots of water, taking Vitamins and maybe getting a little exercise, like walking, even if you don't feel like doing anything...I am in the same boat.  And because of the IBS/Crohn's Disease I have, drinking water usually gives me diarrhea, but that's the best way to rid yourself of the toxins, is to keep yourself hydrated.  It's so much easier to tell someone what helps, but when it comes to actually doing it, or taking your own advice, well, you know...

Keep up the good work - there IS life after addiction - the addiction never goes away, as I've found (I've either been addicted to money, drugs, sex, food or something) - but you'll get through this, as I will, too, and both of us will be much happier.

Drop me a line, if you care to, and let me know how you are doing.

Karen

[FeelingSadAt29]

This is my first time visiting this site.  I am 29yrs old, married with one child.  I have been on pain medications for about 4yrs now.  It all started with Vic 1xday and am now up to Oxycodone 30mg 1xday and 6 percosets 10mgs-on my worst days.  I had control over my medication intake up until the last few months and I've seen myself and everything I care about (relationships) start to go down.  When I realized what had happened so quickly I started to make myself accountable for how many pills a day I was taking. (I keep them in a lock box and only take out 4 perc 10mgs for the day, leaving the remaining locked).  I have found that having to get my keys, get the box, unlock, take out pills, relock, put away keys, and put away box makes me stop and think about what Im doing.
So the problem now?  I am sooooooo depressed, killing myself is not in my mind, but the depression is just horrible.  I have feelings of guilt like no tomorrow also.  I feel so helpless right now.  Normally people can turn to their mate for help, but for me that's not an option.  My husband is very addicted to pain pills and has been for many many many yrs.  So I feel like I'm fighting my addiction and his at the same time... is this normal??  Why am I taking his guilt along with mine??  I know in my right mind that I don't have to feel guilty for anything and for sure not for him, but I just can't seem to stop the guilt.  I just want to go in a corner and cry cry cry cry and make this all go away.
I really don't know the purpose of my post, I guess just to vent.  So to anyone who reads this, thank you for listening/reading

[Melodytorn]

Tramodol is a NON narcotic and it will prevent any withdraw symptoms. I have a friend who took himself off opiates and 2 to 3 tramodol will completely take away any withdrawl symptoms. I just am not sure about the oxycontin . He took up to 25 10mg's of Norco a day so if anyone is taking lortab/hydocone then for sure the Tramodol will work. At least it did for my friend Jason.

[Nejevoli]

Tramadol is not a NON narcotic as you mention above.  I'm not trying to be a jerk here, but I want to dispel that notion.  I am a Dr. (also an addict).  Tramadol is a semisynthetic opioid and is just as addictive as hydrocodone, morphine, oxy, etc.  The withdrawals from Tramadol are much worse than those of Hydro & Oxy as well as more dangerous.  Some people have had success tapering off of Hydro etc. using Tramadol, but only with a pill dispensor and a fairly steep taper schedule.  Most addicts can't handle that and end up addicted to the Tramadol.  I strongly recommend not making that switch.  Many have successfully switched to something like Demerol and then tapered from there.  

I recommend Kratom if you are wanting a substitute from the streets.  I don't have time to explain Kratom, but google it and see what you think.  It is available without a prescription (for now).

I hope this helps.

[Nejevoli]

Let me clarify one thing.  I mentioned above that I am a Dr.  That was misleading.  I am not a medical doctor, but a biologist who specializes in pharmacogenesis.  My statements in no way represent that of a medical professional.  

[Kdollar22]

I'm on day one of my detox and I'm okay. I needed to see what the best way is to get this **** out of my system. I can't sleep and my stomach feels like it's in knots. I've only been taking perks and drosera for about a year. It's pretty much what I could get my hands on. Nobody knows in my family. My good contacts are gone and I just took it as a sign from god that I'm done. I have a wonderful husband and two beautiful daughters. I decided I don't need this addiction in my life anymore. If anyone has good advice, I'd love to hear it! Thank you all  

[SwollenSam]

Hello everyone I have came to the relaization that I need help with my percocet addiction. I have been smoking these 30mg pills for about 2 months. I have gone from smoking 15mg a day (half of one) to approximently 90mg a day.I am 17 years old and thought this would never happend to me. I weight lift for a sport and I have the mentality that I can overcome anything. After smoking about 6 30mg percs last night I TOLD my self it was the last time and that I will get clean starting tommrow. Today came And I was good untill about 6pm where I began to have cold sweats and my body began to ache uncontrolably. I had to go out and get my fix. I went out and smoked my 90mg of percs. =( as I was doing this I was researching diets as I am very into fitness. I knew about detoxing diets. And I started one tonight. It is my own variation from the actual diet. I am eating only fruits and vegetabls. And  tons of water for 3 days. I put this patch on my foot tonight that is a natural patch that takes toxins out of my body. I also will continue to take my fish oil, multi vitiman, Milk thisle, and vitiman d. I am pretty much making this diet up and hoping it will take the toxins out of my body. I Know I will have to deal with withdraws tommrow but Im hoping that In the 3 days The toxins from this drug will be out of my body and my addiction from theses pills will dicipate. Im curious if anyone actually has any knowledge about this? I am pretty much giving it a try. It has been proven that this fruit and vegtable diet does Release toxins from the body although Im not sure if it will also Release all of the percoet from my body.  I need everyones support to help me get through this. I have been through everything just Like you all have. Please give me some support and input on this. Thanks alot

Sam