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I also am on Tramadol and asked my Doc once about getting off of it if the other Neurologists said it would compete with anti-convulsants or something.
I am currently on 400 mg a day. 2 pills every four hours although like you said, a depressed mood can be stopped with a little extra since Tramadol (Ultram) is a mood elevating drug.
Even though they clsss it as non-addictive, my Doc says they are wrong and to only cut down one 50 mg tablet every two weeks. She said depression would be the worse of the withdrawal and rebound pain.
I hope this helps you.
I also had an addiction problem, so I know where you're coming from. First of all, I agree with you that I wouldn't discuss it with my GP if he is not understanding. Many times, a doctor's reaction to admitting addiction is to panic and totally cut you off of your supply of medication (they are constantly worried about legal issues). That happened to me. I actually went to a treatment center and I was scheduled to go into the hospital to be detoxed off of pain medication that I was taking in an excessive amount. The only thing is that I was out of the medicine that I was taking and I needed a 5 day supply to bridge the time that I would need to get checked into a detox. I had my counselor from the treatment center call my GP and explain the whole situation. He said that I would need one last prescription just to tide me over until I went into the hospital. After much begging, my GP, who I was going to for over 7 years, absolutely refused to give me 1 more prescription.
It sounds like your doctor would react the same way. So don't "cut off you nose to spite your face".
Now, back to your problem and my advice to you. I have heard from many people that Ultram (Tramadol) is a very addictive medicine and the doctors are very ignorant to this fact. As of now, Ultram is not even a scheduled drug (it's not a controlled substance). I believe that this will be changing very soon due to the many people who have developed addictions to Ultram.
Anyway, my advice is #1: don't panic. Although you are addicted to your medicine, you don't have a totally out of control addiction. My addiction to pain pills was totally out of control. At this point in time, you are doubling up your medicine which is a situation that I feel you can handle on your own given the following factors: You must have an ample supply of your medication in order to detox yourself and you must be truly motivated to do this on your own. If either of the 2 above situations don't exist, then my suggestion would be do some research and find a good addictionologist. There are some good ones out there that are familiar with the disease of addiction and they will know how to help you out and detox you with a minimal amount of discomfort.
If you truly feel that you can do it on your own, I would suggest cutting down your medication by 12 1/2 to 25 mgs. every 4-5 days. You will obviously have to cut the tablets in quarters if you are going to cut back by 12 1/2 mgs. every 4-5 days since 1/4 of a tablet is 12 1/2 mgs. Try this schedule of reduction out and see how you feel. If you are very uncomfortable, lengthen the number of days that you stay on a reduced dose. In other words, cut back every 7-10 days by 12 1/2 mgs. Obviously, you're not taking a tremendous amount of medication, so you will have an ample amount that will allow you to withdraw in a comfortable manner.
Again, try and be as positive as possible. If you truly feel that you can't do it on your own, then I would definitely do some research and find an addictionologist.
Best of Luck to You.
Richie.
Sandy
Im at the stage now where im sick of taking these tablets each day - i still need to have that "high" feeling - i feel great and so happy -obvious effects of addiction. Enoughs enough - i AM going to cut down , starting tomorrow morning. Ill keep you all informed with my progress ok?! Wish me luck! Im starting work again soon ( ive been off due to my back) and starting a new career in the prison service -so i definetly need to be off these tablets ( i dont use the word " clean" as i hate that - sounds like im "dirty" now!!).
Thanks again - Love mandy xxxx
Im at the stage now where im sick of taking these tablets each day - i still need to have that "high" feeling - i feel great and so happy -obvious effects of addiction. Enoughs enough - i AM going to cut down , starting tomorrow morning. Ill keep you all informed with my progress ok?! Wish me luck! Im starting work again soon ( ive been off due to my back) and starting a new career in the prison service -so i definetly need to be off these tablets ( i dont use the word " clean" as i hate that - sounds like im "dirty" now!!).
Thanks again - Love mandy xxxx
PS - I too have lied to get my drugs early - it goes with the territory - you are not alone and you are not a bad, dirty person - you are only doing what you need to do to avoid withdrawals - the important thing is that you want to get sober! Good luck!
Compared to most things people do, taking drugs doesn't seem so dirty. Big companies ripping each other off wives and husbands cheating, etc, etc, I could go on and on. That's why when they tell me I could die from Status Epilepticus if I stopped the Klonopin cold turkey I said OH WELL, THE WORLD SUCKS ANYWAY.
I hope if I do chose that route someday that I go unconscious, because all of my seizures have been partial and tonic-clonic which my Neurologists find weird. They are extremly painful like torture. If you pass out then you don't feel anything.
I took one less tablet this morning - so far so good! Im expecting the syptoms (symptoms) to start soon though but im prepared!
Thanks again - and stay in touch please! Love Mandy xxx
I took one less tablet this morning - so far so good! Im expecting the syptoms (symptoms) to start soon though but im prepared!
Thanks again - and stay in touch please! Love Mandy xxx
far.
Maryanne - i would love to stay in contact with you , if thats ok -- and to the others that are helping me. My email address is - mandy_norris***@**** --i live in England. Where are you from?
Well - i must go and pick my youngest up from school - thanks again. Love mandy x
but getting back to the emotional part of it ultram is considered an anti deppressent{sorry for the spelling} so all
the thing's that you have pushed to the back of your mind are going to come at you with a vengence if you have someone to talk to while your going through this will help. if you are suffering from depression be carefull. oh sneezing is also a symtom of withdrawl.also yawning the wanting to cry for no good reason
currently i think my phys withdrawls are done ..but i still dont know what to do with myself as far as ..well what to do with myself ..i told my girlfreind that the closest thing to the emotianal aspect is like having a broken heart you dont want to eat dont want to go to work you just want to cry ...now that im done rambling any one that wants info can go to any pharmacy and look up ultram in the prescription pill book they are usualy right at the counter so you can flip through it without having to buy it. please be careful and if you can just step yourself of it cold turkey is a really really hard way to go
BEST OF LUCK TO YOU ALL. JUST KNOWING THIS FORUM WAS HERE HELPED A GREAT DEAL thanx....bill
ABSTRACT
()-Tramadol is a synthetic analogue of codeine. It is a central analgesic with a low affinity for opioid receptors. Its selectivity for mu receptors has recently been demonstrated, and the M1 metabolite of tramadol, produced by liver O-demethylation, shows a higher affinity for opioid receptors than the parent drug. The rate of production of this M1 derivative (O-demethyl tramadol), is influenced by a polymorphic isoenzyme of the debrisoquine-type, cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6). Nevertheless, this affinity for mu receptors of the CNS remains low, being 6000 times lower than that of morphine. Moreover, and in contrast to other opioids, the analgesic action of tramadol is only partially inhibited by the opioid antagonist naloxone, which suggests the existence of another mechanism of action. This was demonstrated by the discovery of a monoaminergic activity that inhibits noradrenaline (norepinephrine) and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) reuptake, making a significant contribution to the analgesic action by blocking nociceptive impulses at the spinal level. ()-Tramadol is a racemic mixture of 2 enantiomers, each one displaying differing affinities for various receptors. ()-Tramadol is a selective agonist of mu receptors and preferentially inhibits serotonin reuptake, whereas (-)-tramadol mainly inhibits noradrenaline reuptake. The action of these 2 enantiomers is both complementary and synergistic and results in the analgesic effect of ()-tramadol. After oral administration, tramadol demonstrates 68% bioavailability, with peak serum concentrations reached within 2 hours. The elimination kinetics can be described as 2-compartmental, with a half-life of 5.1 hours for tramadol and 9 hours for the M1 derivative after a single oral dose of 100mg. This explains the approximately 2-fold accumulation of the parent drug and its M1 derivative that is observed during multiple dose treatment with tramadol. The recommended daily dose of tramadol is between 50 and 100mg every 4 to 6 hours, with a maximum dose of 400 mg/day; the duration of the analgesic effect after a single oral dose of tramadol 100mg is about 6 hours. Adverse effects, and nausea in particular, are dose-dependent and therefore considerably more likely to appear if the loading dose is high. The reduction of this dose during the first days of treatment is an important factor in improving tolerability. Other adverse effects are generally similar to those of opioids, although they are usually less severe, and can include respiratory depression, dysphoria and constipation. Tramadol can be administered concomitantly with other analgesics, particularly those with peripheral action, while drugs that depress CNS function may enhance the sedative effect of tramadol. Tramadol should not be administered to patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and administration with tricyclic antidepressant drugs should also be avoided. Tramadol has pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties that are highly unlikely to lead to dependence. This was confirmed by various controlled studies and postmarketing surveillance studies, which reported an extremely small number of patients developing tolerance or instances of tramadol abuse. Tramadol is a central acting analgesic which has been shown to be effective and well tolerated, and likely to be of value for treating several pain conditions (step II of the World Health Organization ladder) where treatment with strong opioids is not required
How about this one"Parnate is a non-hydrazine MAOI"is that descriptive?,like saying apples are a non-orange fruit,why the deception?because the Germans invented Tranycypromine(Parnate)as one of a series of Amphetamine analogues.
What about the brilliant Scientist who though that Heroin was a non addicting substitute(cure in those days)for morphine dependence.Or have TRIALS of drugs improved somewhat since then?.
Besides it is not Opioid receptors that make Opioids addictive and Euphoric>it is their effect (indirect)upon dopaminergic neurons in the Ventral Tegmental Area of the mesencephalon(midbrain),even Xanax exerts effects their.
Kappa receptors in the CA3 field of the hippocampus contribute to reward seeking,etc,etc.
If the drug companies think they can pull the wool over my eyes,I will fight to the death,take me on,I did not study 8 hours a day for 23 years for nothing,if I leave a mark upon this earth that in anyway helps humanity,it will be by exposing such unscrupulous behaviour.I mean do they really think that by avoiding the "mu" receptor they have made a non-Opioid,non-Addictive drug?.No sorry ULTRAM is addictive and causes Euphoria.
I've only been given Ultram over the yrs., and we all no why that is. Only recently have I been given 5/500 of Oxycodone...which you listed, I believe, on a scale of 1-10 being a 9. This is why I am not understanding.....it does not help my pain for more than 2hrs. Now I have some Vicoden...reluctantly prescibed by my pcp. This helps much more than the Oxycodone. I don't think I will be given anymore...so I use it sparingly. Any way my surgury is scheduled for next week, and my Ortho states this is all he can prescribe (oxycodone 5/500)...I fear he will undermedicate me after this operation. I feel like calling the whole thing off.
As you can see, I've grown to value your opinion. lol (:
The analgesic studies show that it the BEST painkiller and less liable to be abused,than Oxycodone,Hydrocodone,oxymorphone and hydrocodone.
Morphine is excellent and cravings once Euphoria addicted are far quicker and easier that the 4 above mentioned Opioids to get over.
Good old Morphine,humans have used it for over 4000 years.
Having said this,It is well known that the stronger the analgesic effect the higher addiction liability,but this does not take into account the multitude of genetic(ie liver enzymes,Brains,etc,etc)differences between all people.
If I take oxycodone 30mg oral(immediate release) I get a very Euphoric feeling about 15 minutes later that lasts about 20mins and as far as analgesic effect goes well there arn`t any after about 2-3 hours,If I take 30mg Of hydrocodone I get a mild/Medium pleasant euphoria that builds up slowly that lasts for up to 8 hours and the analgesic effect seems to parralel this.So it is best to find the Analgesic that works best for YOU,mine is morphine,but how do you get yourself a doctor to prescribe Morphine,Answ: use what they give you,and 2 days later tell them your results,ie you need oxycodone5/500 every 2 hours and it makes you high and you do not like this feeling.Is their anything else?If they offer you something you know in no good for you tell them your past experiences with it,Most important Tape record the sessions with your Doctor.Go and see another Doctor and let them hear the tape and tell them about how the pain is so bad,you often think of ending it all,then start to cry,let it all out..they may have some compassion,Suggest that their must be a natural drug, a plant extract that is a good pain killer,and that you have used morphine before and it didnt give you that horrible drugged out feeling and did not make you constipated like the above mentioned,tape record this conversation as this Doctor maynot have the guts to prescribe either.As a last resort you can take the 5/500oxycodone every 2 hours for a day then admit yourself to a ER hospital and tell them you had a bad asthma attack,vomiting and nausea and do not no what caused it,they will ask what you have taken and when they ask,PLAY THEM THE TAPES and tell them "what I HAD to to stop the pain".remember you must break down and cry during the doctors appointment and that will be on the tapes.
The Pharmaceutical company,either did not trial it or knew it was more addictive (Euphorigenic),in either case,they wanted to make money,so of coarse they patented the synthesis and then distributed the drug and made lots of money,UNTIL eventually,the patients and doctors realized it was no different to morphine (except when injected IV gave a very pleasant rush).
It is beyond belief that nobody new it would be addictive like morphine,the state of pharmaceutical knowedge at that time rules that out absolutely.SO
We live in a very corrupt world ,half full of dangerous EVIL greedy people.
The acetyl groups attached to morphine mainly facilitate transport across the blood brain barrier,however their are not just quantitative differences,it not like 30mg of morphine FEELS like 10mg of Heroin(Diamorph)their are qualitative differences too,Heroin gives a better Euphoria.I know people that do not like morphine much but love heroin,I do not see that much difference between them myself from personal experience except the extroadinary RUSH and instant effect of injecting heroin into a vein.That effect morphine will not produce.
Morphine and Heroin are both non toxic,neither is "worse" than the other.Heroin has a bad name because it is mainly brought into the country illegally and GOVT propaganda has attached a very negative label to it associating it with crime death sickness,when in fact all of these things are a DIRECT result of its Prohibition,you could use heroin your entire life and remain functional caring and moral,its a little bit like if say the GOVT banned Condoms and then blamed SEX as the reason people are dying of HIV/AIDS.
Hang in there the Peoples Revolution Army Youth(PRAY) will soon return power to the PEOPLE.Fight like the Negro slaves had to in order to be free,agitate,agitate,agitate........
Ya know, I read something similar on the asap.com or the widowmaker site. There is only one problem. You know that EGO problem you always talk about, well I don't know if that falls in the same category as "pride," but I would rather curl up and suffer than cry to a doctor. But I will print that info out and save it, cause doctors say the degenerative arthritis will get worse...eventually I may end up in a wheel chair, (will not go there w/o a fight) because I am to young for a hip replacement.
Now about the oxycodone....I was breaking out in a rash when taking this medciation, and I totally agree w/ you...it wears off in 2 hours. I have built up a tolerance to the Vicodin es 7.5s already, but they do work better than the Oxycodone/Tylox.
By the way....this is good info for everyone: I had withdrawals and severe mood swings coming off of the oxycodone,(sure you noticed LOL) and never have experienced that w/ the Vicodin, although I have never been able to take it very long, because of the "addiction-phobia" in my area. This has been the longest period that Ive ever been on meds accept the actual mva....I do know now, I will probably be posting here soon in a different light.
One more question...I'm terrible w/ chemisty, biology, etc...How I ended up on the Dean's list I'll never know...bet you coulda helped me out w/ that. lol I'm confused about the 30mg of hydrocodone....Is that the equivalent in the 7.5s...(I'm trying to keep this short) ??? You may have trouble understanding my questions/statements.
Well, let me end here. Its getting rather lengthy. Once again my sincere thanks. You appear to be more humane and compassionate now, than in your earlier post.
Love,
Annie (:
I've done some research, and found that people who have been exposed to numerous x-rays/radiation die young. Not that I would mind, but I always like to stay informed about these things, and provide help in these areas to others.
Thanks again!
Annie
Re: heroin.... how is it 3 times stronger than morphine ?? In its analgesic properties ??
I agree with you regarding the awful and dehumanizing drug laws we have here. And I am also a supporter of removing all crime element from drug use or personal possession... but since it's all about profit ,our govt. wishes to keep enslavement as the main by product of this prohibition.... it feeds most large governmental agencies... mainly our judicial system and penal system... jails are all about profit too.
I do feel that I must disagree with one point you make about prohibition... I do not agree with you that heroin addicts can live truly "functional, caring and moral" lives given the drug without prohibition.... just the fact that it numbs the emotions is a contradiction of anything normal.... the caring aspect for them is the love affair with the drug... they choose it over relationships, sex, family and interaction with society. Many cannot remain functional since the motivation to experience life is so dulled... perhaps moral... but again when one cares for a chemical over life then judgements are distorted and morality... a code of self conduct... disintegrates. There are many wealth people who can easily afford to get an ongoing supply of heroin... and they do... the results are still problematic... a case in point.. the Getty Oil family.... several heroin addicts in every generation.... death, misery, inability to participate in life, business etc.... nearly the total dessimation of a family... like most families with heroin addicts. This was not related to any crime aspects of trying to obtain the drug....it was the effects of the drug on the souls of the afflicted. With unlimited supply there will still be death by overdose.... those who quit and come back to the drug often die from using the same amount they used to use... I can see too many problems just because of the nature of the effects of this powerful drug. I think there are some who could remain functional on a maintenance dose..... this is what a possible "cure" for this addiction may be (if you wish to call it that)... and that is already being done with substitutes... another form of slavery I might add... but a sort of freedom in a narrower sense that the dose is controlled and a person can satisfy the need and not resort to crime and not get high. There simply has to be something else to reverse this condition permanently..... what do you think it is ???? Love, Brighty
I feel comfortable talking to you all. More so, than my own family. That says a lot for you guys. Please do keep me in your prayers. As the day draws near, I become more nervous. It's just fear of the unknown, I guess.
Love ya!
Annie
Personally I think that Heroin is more suited for losers,who like a rush and want to nod off into oblivion,I like morphine and its oral use does not cause such problems,well not to a self employed person,like an Artist or Novelist,etc,Heroin IV use is just to addictive and debilitating.
I still think I am better off without any drugs,maybe I need a girlfriend or something?.
Annie if you are reading this,I am not sure what you mean RE: 30mg Hydrocodone etc.
Also are you two sure that their is a Devil,I cannot say for sure,but I heard their is a little Devil in all of us.
Of course I'm sure of Satan, devil, ...... whatever name it's still the power of evil in the world... entering each of us to bring us to defeat... unless we choose otherwise... often it's a fight. You know that too.... looks like you have won. Love, Brighty
And I agree, I'm sure they are in many of us. Thanks for your time to reply.
If you cannot find someone to love or someone to love you,learn to love yourself.Please help us save this world.
Learning to Love yourself and respect all life,learning that no matter how bad your life `seems`, you could be worse off, appreciating what god gave you,accepting your faults,accepting others faults,not being judgemental such that you see faults in people,not contradicting yourself,not expecting life to be like the Brady Bunch or your rich,good looking successful ex-friends,keeping away from evil people,believing in god,being strong enough to face your fears,accepting one is a coward,not expecting anything of anybody or anything.Finding a peacefull place to live with fresh food and water,having a comfortable bed to lay in while you contemplate the Universe,think of all the innocent starving people and animals suffering all over the world,losing everything and emerging knowing you have still got yourself,putting Ego in the rubbish bin,accepting death as being the start of a new life,growing old gracefully.These are the things that can cure drug addiction,be patient with acquiring them,know their pain-it is their life that hurts them.some will perish others will flourish,from adversity can come great compassion and strength.Jesus Wept..............Satan Smiled and the Earth kept turning.
Thanks,
Annie
Ps...Your work here, will reach greater heights, because it accompanies compassion!
Dear All,
it's the first time for me here, I am 30y, I am addicted to Tramadol, in my country it called Ultradol 150 mg, I started with Tramadol since almost 4y now, of course I started with 100 mg a day till I reached 1400 mg last week!, I know it sounds crazy, but like everybody said, I used it to be in a good mood all the day and to increase my productivity at work "I.T service"., by time the dose started to increase, I found a new product 100 mg in the market, I told myself it's nice to take 3 tablets a day instead of 6 X 50 mg, after six month, I found my self back to 6 pills again instead of 3 but with 100 mg!!.
again, I repeated this with 150 mg, till I reached 1200:1400 mg a day!!, 8 months ago, I had an "epilepsy shock", I was in my office then suddenly I wake up in bed with Doctor and colleagues around, I don't know what happened, the doctor asked me if I had any medicals? I lied on him coz he's the company doctor, I was afraid that I will be fired if they know about that addiction.
Anyway, I didn't stop, and it happened again for two times in different places and when I use that High dose.
50 days ago, I decided to stop it totally, I managed to have a week vacation, I told my wife about everything, she was so helpful, it was like a hell week, 1st three days I was on the bed, trying to sleep and eat only, the fourth day was better and so on.
I went back to work, and I found 4 pills in my drawer, and I had a fight with myself till midday when I could resist it anymore and I took it !, it was awful feeling, after I stopped it for 6 days, I back again!!
anyway, last Thursday, I only took 450 mg around 1 PM, and I decided to stop "AGAIN", today is Sunday, it's three days now without a mg of Tramadol, I am tired of course, but I will tell you all why I stopped; I had a very bad dream about my son, I've seen myself in My funeral, I've seen my all my friends, parents and wife crying for me.
Anyway, Now I am writing you on my third day without Tramadol, I need some help from you all to answer some questions bearing in mind two things:
1- I cannot take any vacations.
2- I will not back after I already passed the 1st 2 days.
From my experience the first 3 days are the harder days, and then it will feel better. My questions are:
1- How many days I need to be CLEAN?! Brain electricity, Blood, liver, etc.
2- Now I feel a Pain in my back "Spinal" - I take Ketofan for this and it works fine-, diarrhea and sleeplessness - I took a soporific to sleep. The question is can I fight it alone? in the place I live, there is no Detox centers or addict centers- I did it before and on the sixth day I felt almost natural.
Last word for you all, if you are still in the beginning on Tramadol, Please Please Please stop it before it destroys your brain and life, many of you are still on 300 or 400 mg a day, you can quiet now before it becomes harder.
Ikido, How are you holding up? I hope you did not start using again. You ask what you should do. I am not to sure, but I do have some ideas. If you are serious about stopping, tell your doctor about the problem with the addiction. Be prepared to hear the truth! Ask about help with the withdrawls, work out an action plan. If this doctor is not helping, have your wife help you find another. Cut down, have the wife give you only 3 per day etc. After a few weeks stop altogether. You will have to take of time from work. This has gotten out of control and its better to face it than not trying to take of work and having to keep taking the pills. From what I read on here for the amound you have used it can take up to 2 month until you feel a lot better ( only maybe 3-5 days to overcome the worse after tapering down), and see if you can get started on an antidepressant through it all. Kyra
I never ever thought I would get addicted to a drug. But the back pain is so horrible that I rather take anything ust to make the pain go away. I just recovered from a 2 year addiction to vicodin and percocet. I was given it for pain. To be pain free allowed me to live my life as I was supposed to and be a mother of a now 4 year old. But I also started to love the happy feeling that came with taking the drug. I struggled with depression all my life and now I finally felt normal and happy. I did anything I could to get the drug. I did get some from my doctor's script but always ran out early. I went to several Emergency rooms, until they new me all and one by one told me not to come back. After two years, I simply had exsosted all my options from friends to stealing out of peoples medicine cabinets etc. 2 month ago my doctor told me that I need the disc replacement surgery, but "only" put me on Tramadol, because several Emergency departmens had notified him about my frequent visits there to get more pills. I was really mad, but took the Tramadol and found out quick that they took all withdrawls from the oxicondone away! I was thrilled! And I have been through some horrible withdrawls with heavy suicidal thoughs and all. So I started taking double of the Tramadol, and felt so happy! I did not feel the usual rush after taking narcordics, so I though I was cured from taking drugs. I took about 500mg per day, so about 10 pills per day. PLus I really wanted to have a nother child and we are trying to get pregnant. Thinking that I might be pregnant, I thought I just stop after my last refil is done.That was until I ran out of the scipt plus the 3 refills. That was 2 days ago. I am pretty miserable. I have read all of this stuff about what other people have been through. Yesterday, I got so depressed I just wanted to be dead, plus no energy at all. Today a little better, still everything that looked nice just felt junky and dirty, plus the chills etc. But I managed to go and drag my tired shaky body arround to do some shopping with my son. I dont know what is worse, the boredom with myself or the axiety. I almost went to a differnt Emergency room today to get some pills, but all I can think about is that I just can not take this addiction anymore. I dont even know who is me anymore. And I read some articles about pregnant women on Tramadol trying to quit, it is hard now and also even harder later. I have to do it now. I am on an antidepressant, so maybe this is more bearable because of it. I hope it will get a little better every day.
Kyra
Is there a good soul out there who can help me with this problem? Does this sound like anyone else’s experience? Tony K
It has been 4 days since I have taken my lastTramadol. It has been 4 very long days and nights. As I gather from above I am not alone.
4 years ago I suffered what I thought was a minor shoulder injury. In and out of surgery back on the ball field in 3-4 months badda-boom badda bing as good as new. Not so easy. After my third surgery the pain is mostly gone, but the long, long battle with pain killer addiction continues. I was on Vicodin and and Prcocet for months after the surgeries, and then was moved to Tramadol as it was milder and less addictive, (or so I was informed by my specialist.) The past 4 years of my life have been griped by this drug. I'm so glad to have finally made the plunge to break away from this stuff, but can't believe how incredibly difficult it has been.
I hope the next days ahead bring my energy and hope back, as the darkness I'm now in the middle of is so hard to trudge through.
Thank you for your stories. They are helping to keep me strong.
Special Regards to All,
Dale
I'm proudly, but quite painfully on Day 6 off from Tramadol.
Believe me you are no failure. I can certainly understand why after 2 days of withdrawals, you could find yourself back on this ****. Yesterday was the hardest day for me, as I fumbled my way through work and had to continually hide as I was so depressed and exhausted that I just wanted to die. Today I awoke surprisingly better. My energy is still no where near the level it was, but I can atleast fake my way through the day.
Oh Tramadol- How I miss you..... T turned me into a hero. I was working tons of hours at work, coaching my son's baseball team, working on my home renovations until well past midnight most nights and still working hard at being a good dad, husband and son. (I now have an awesome new bathroom thanks to the added energy) It gave me the interest to speak to people I used to dread talking to. (not that I'm antisocial, but there are just some people I like to avoid) My "happy" pills went everywhere with me. If I had a business trip I had to arrange around my script refills. What a pathathetic life. After a while the energy was not worth the addictive lifestyle. I stopped caring about things. Although I worked harder and more, my quality of work suffered (I still hope I can work my way back to where I was at work) My very cool parents life close by and I no longer stopped in just say hello. I just stopped being a decent guy.
Now I am in pain, and tired all day, but I know I will be back up to speed at some point soon. I'm very active and will not be stopped. I am commited to being free of all pills. It has been 1 day at a time, but that's better than not at all.
You can do it too Kathy. You're not failing, you're just trapped by your own body. Please let me know how you're doing.
I know it has helped me to hear other peoples success stories so I know it can be done.
At your darkest times, remeber someone in VT is suffering alongside of you.
Dale
I tried to cut back just one pill today, and although I did not feel physical withdrawal, I was so depressed that I fought tears all day. I have a long way to go, and if you can, please pray for me. I will do the same for you.
I think the fear your experiencing is almost as bad as the pain you will have endure? You are at about the same exact amount/day that i was on.
I tried weening myself off tramadol, but is was a small torture everyday. After about month of trying, I had almost doubled what I was normally taking. (wrong direction) Finally I had had enough of the embarassing walk into the pharmacy or running into Dr's assistants in the grocery store and feeling like, well an addict..... I had to take control.... So far I feel okay. (I would still cut my arm off for a pill right now, but I am keeping myself away from any harmful situations, the WD's are actually almost gone) I will win this one!
I found this recipe on "GaGuys" profile. I think it's called the Thomas recipe. It is a blend of vitamins and minerals that totals about $35. Unfortunetly I didn't find it until day 4 or 5, but I gathered all the materials and today is my second day on it. It has helped already. Check it out, it might help you as well if you prepare before you quit?
I will pray for you as well. You are strong enough to beat this thing. And you will feel SOOO good as you walk off the battlefield as a victor! You really can beat it when you commit to getting off these crazy things.
Today was so much better than yesterday.
Best of luck Kathy and I hope you have a great night,
Dale
My entire life revolves around this demon drug. I keep it with me at all times, and even some on my night table just in case I wake up and feel the slightest withdrawal symptom. I am like you; weaning off is just not working for me. I am taking some days off from work next week, and I am going cold turkey. I finally have been able to admit that I am an addict, and I truly think that was a positive step. In recovery, there can be no lies. I keep the 12 steps of AA/NA on my fridge, so I think it is about time I use them.
Hve a good weekend Dale, and keep fighting the good fight.
Its been my secret shame for years. I existed 18 years without tramadol, I know I can do it again. I have been taking darvocet to help with withdrawal becuase its the only thing that helps. I don't know who said it on here, but she said that her "bones hurt" and thats true. The body aches are unbearable. I will run out of darvocet in a couple days and then I will be on my own. I'm so scared..but I have to do it. I have given up my social life, my body, my clear complexion, and my happiness for those pills. Instant grattification. I'm so scared but I have to get my life back..Its time.
Everyone is different, and if tapering works for you then the best of luck. I don't care how you can get off these things as long as it's effective. I suspect you know your body and your strength better than anyone else.
ClaudiaK when you say it's been your secret shame for years, I know exactly what you mean. I am no angel, but I do no it would shock alot of people I know if they found out I have been addicted to painkillers the past few years. It has that dark cloud over it. For the first 90% of my life I was pretty good at making decisions and getting through life without this drug. I'm pretty confident I can do it again without this stuff.
I too just had a seizure, my first. If I was never taking Tramadol, I am confident that I would be seizure free today. Started taking about 12 months ago. From 100mg a day up to about 1600mg a day after 60 days of use. I quickly made the decision to ween myself off after about 90 days and I did so successfully by managing the dosing throughout each day. I managed to be Tramadol free, without major side effects for approximately 3-4 months (I blame a Vegas trip for starting up again). Below is my dosing calendar from my take period...to my successful ween-off period. I say successful because I didn't crave it once I was done, I was off of it for 3-4 months, I didn't experience the miserable aches, no obnoxious insomnia and depression was minimal. Cold turkey is not healthy and I find it to be a joke. Absolutely impossible. I am now "mr. cold turkey" thanks to the seizure and I want to blow my head off. Below is boring and drawn out but it WORKED.
My take schedule (1500mg/day). Chewed tablets in half.
- 500mg at 9:00am
- 600mg at 1:00pm
- 400mg at 5:00pm
Ween-off schedule by day:
1st day - 300mg at 9am. 200mg at 11am. 200mg at 2pm. 300mg at 6pm. 200mg at 9pm. TOTAL: 1200mg for day.
2nd day - Same.
3rd day - 200mg at 9am. 200mg at 2pm. 200mg at 5pm. 200mg at 9pm. TOTAL: 800mg for day.
4th day - Same.
5th day - 100mg at 9am. 100mg at 11am. 100mg at 2pm. 100mg at 4pm. 100mg at 6pm. 100mg at 9pm. TOTAL: 600mg for day.
PLEASE NOTE*** The quantities I have on hand. I stockpiled this **** to make sure I could do this and run out right when the time was right. You can't just decide one day to quit and do it. It takes planning and you MUST go easy on yourself when planning this downgrade. This is a lifestyle change that you are making too. Stick to it! You just can't start cutting yourself off because you think you are doing a good deed for yourself. You'll fail everytime. Plan plan plan.
6th day - Same
7th day - 100mg after 9am. 100mg after 1pm. 100mg after 4pm. 100mg after 8pm. TOTAL: 400mg
8th day - Same
9th day - 100mg after 10am. 100mg after 3pm. 100mg after 8pm. TOTAL: 300mg
10th day - Same
11th day - 50mg after 10am. 50mg after 3pm. 100mg after 8pm. TOTAL: 200mg for day.
12th day - Same.
13th day - 50mg after 10am. 50mg at 3pm. 50mg after 8pm.
14th day - Same.
15th day - 50mg after 11am. 50mg after 6pm. TOTAL: 100mg for day.
I had to do day 15 for a few days....
Day 16: 50mg after lunch time. If I made it beyond lunch without taking it, I saved it until after dinner so I could give myself I chance to sleep.
Day 17: Same.
Day 18: Same.
Day 19: Same and I ran out.
If you have this quantity and you can plan it out, it will be the best shot you got. I believe in anyone who can stick to their plan and who can give themselves a realistic timeline. God is it hard. But I do believe in this timeline. Regards - osu
thank you . I hope you feel better .
Avis
Avis
avis
avis
I finally decided once and for all, I can't live like this anymore. I am engaged (he has no idea) and I don't want to enter a marriage with such dishonesty. I'm sick of having to plan ahead if I go somewhere. It almost makes me sick to my stomach to think of how I have been living. I cried when I finally addmitted to myself that I was addicted.
I am happy to say that I am officially on one 50mg pill a day, for the last 3 days. Reading everyone's posts has been extremely helpful and comforting, knowing that I am not the only one that fell for the "it's not addicting" bull****. I haven't taken anything yet today and I don't want to. But I'm wondering when this weird feeling is going to stop. I'm trying to ignore it and go about my day, but it is sooo hard to think straight!!! I haven't felt like myself in 4 years, so I'm almost afraid of what it's going to be like. But I can't wait. I never want to take another pill again.
that wasn't supposed to be addictive per the prescribing doctor. I switched over from ultracet to tramadol due to my concern of excessive use of the acetametaphine component. Between the 2 drugs, i've been on them for about 4 years. How-ever the escalation to about 500 mg/day begun about a year ago. I am now down to about 400 mg/day (8 @ 50 mg), sometimes up to 10 when i'm feeling down, but I can almost scrape by @ 8 a day now. I am also on Klonopin which can be used to offset the tramadol when needed (right...not a good substitute) but it does allow me to ween off a bit from the tramadol.
Yes, I found that I am often feeling bad when i'm not consuming enuf tramadol to meet my physical addictive needs...pop a couple extra and wa-lah! i feel so much better, but from reading this board i now understand that my route of weaning off will take several more months...until i'm ready to go cold turkey, and to be honest i am scared sh*tless that I won't succeed due to how great tis drug makes me feel.
Question...has anyone here used Buprenorphine to withdraw from tramadol? Does it work? Would it be appropriate for someone in my situation?
This addiction has been my secret, no one else knows except for my Doctor, and my GF doesnt suspect it even tho we might have had sex 3 times in the past 2 years.
Any input would be appreciated!
Yes keep busy, physically and mentally (simple stuff works great!), because all we need is a perspective change when trying to wean off of this addictive drug, shift from constant introspection and belly-lint picking to awareness of that outside of our everyday regular thinking (part time job is next on my list when i get back home).
This CAN be beat, just requires a mental attention shift to the outer instead of the inner!
If you go over to my name that is in blue and go into my profile ..there is a taper schedule for tramadol users... You might want to try that ...it starts at 1500 mg just go down to 1000 mg a day to start.... As for buprenorphine they wont prescribe it for ultram users because tram is not an opiate.
You have to taper or CT tram which really does suck. However it can be done there have been some that have tapered and some that cold turkey. I have been clean for a little over 2 months.....
Post often let us know how you are.
avis
I had been up to 12 a day for a short period. For me, cutting back 1 -> 50 mg tab per week seems to be the easier way to quit. How-ever, the depression does seem to linger as I decrease the dosage. Not sure what will happen when after I scale down from 4 a day, which would then be less than 1 per 6 hour intervals! Any ideas as to the best way of completely eliminating the Tramadol after i taper off from 4 tabs a day? CT? TIA.
look at the taper plan .i did not write but it is a good one. Just go down to 300 mg and look at the taper plan . Give you body time to adjust every time you knock out a pill . you are doing great keep it up!!!!
avis
Tapered down from 6 tbas (or 300 mg) from the past 6 days. I was @ 12/day just a few weeks ago. My demented sex drive appears to be coming back as well as some short-term memory strength and wit. How-ever, waking up in the morning is still dreaded
due to lack of energy or mental stamina. Caffeine provides a short term boost, bt leaves me feeling anxious about an hour later...you'd think I'd learn by now about the coffee thing...but its like a drug...makes me feel good early on, then later I regret it. Since I'm on 2 drugs, the Klonapin since 1994, not sure how this whole thing will play it out. Both drugs were needed for legit reasons, but being on Klonapin for about 13 years is not good, how-ever i remembr how i was prior to Klonapin, and that wasn't something I'd want to re-visit either. I'm a male +50 years old with limited immediate family. No kids, never married. Living alone can make this detox easier since its my own little secret, how-ever support would be good too. Perhaps i'll look for a 12 step meeting. I know I need more excercise, but I need someone to push me, hold my hand, pat me on the head and cheer me on. Thats it for now.
Peace-out.
Again, I need to keep active/busy and be around other people more often than usual to help me think less about this uncomfortable/transitional period in my life.
-more later
Maybe still too early to tell...i sure could use some company!
I couldn't maintain 5 tabs today for the third straight day, appears that I'm now pacing at 5 1/2 tabs for today's total. Bad headache all day with a severe case of the blahs, but taking it up 1/2 tab today did seem to make a big difference. Hopefully i can hold out for the last scheduled tab of the day today just before bedtime, which would keep me @ 5 1/2 tabs.
Maybe still too early to tell...i sure could use some company!
avis
tia!
The first day out was not TOO bad, but I didn't know to blame the mildly bad feeling and mild diarhea (diarrhea) on the Tram withdrawals, as I didn't know what withdrawals were or that I should even expect to have them with Tram, after all it's "non-addictive" right?
That night was one of the worst experiences of my life, if not THE worst. I woke and began vomiting and had severe diarhea (diarrhea). The crying was unrelenting and powerful. I could not stop crying for days. I say "for days" because I eventually found a way to get another prescription (more on that later.) It was so bad that I called a friends mother who was hooked on opiates during the time I was a teenager. She later cleaned up and began going to AlAnon and NarcAnon meetings. She's a great person now, so I figured talking to her would help. It did help a little, but the whole time I tried talking to her I was crying uncontrollably and had to put the phone down several times. She told me that I could overcome it but it would not be easy, and that I MUST stop soon. She said to call her any time if I needed help. The withdrawals had given me such a false feeling of extreme guilt for calling her and burdening her with the news that I couldn't bring myself to call her back.
Three days later I was so angry and sad about the condition I was in that I went to the Walgreens where I had picked up my scrips and told the head pharmacist that I wanted them to put a note on my name that says to NEVER allow me to pick up any more of this medication. I told them how bad it was and that something MUST be done about the false representation of this medications addictive properties. She gave me a "ok, whatever" attitude and acted like she was noting my account.
This is where I gave up and found a way to get another refill. Although the doctor would not authorize a refill I created an online account with Walgreens to look at my scrip history and saw that the scrip had an indication that refills were authorized 'unlimited' until a year later. That meant that all I had to do was put a check-mark on the scrip and submit the request for the order. Sure enough, I submitted it, and THAT DAY I was able to go back to the SAME Walgreens and pick up the refill.
Once that year of refills ran out, I found another doctor to keep it going, and he's been filling it every time I request it for about 2 years now.
I've been taking it, not to feel GOOD, but to not feel bad for all that time because I'm so VERY afraid of the withdrawals again.
But there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel. I recently began tapering down after reading this entire series of posts for the 100th time.
What's surprising is how quickly I've been able to taper it off. I was taking 5 per day religiously for 2 years. I immediately cut it down to 3 and, although I didn't feel GOOD, I didn't feel very bad, and no diarhea (diarrhea) or crying or vomiting. The worst part so far has been that my RLS has come back. Tram has worked FLAWLESSLY at stopping my RLS (restless leg syndrome) and I may actually keep some tram for helping me get to sleep when the RLS gets bad.
The next day (after taking only 3) I cut back to 2.5. Again, it wasn't easy, but I was determined. The day after that I cut back to only 2, and on that day my RLS was pretty bad, but I refused to take any more of this for RLS until I was sure I could beat the "addiction" to it.
Today I'm on track to take only 1.5. It's a real challenge, but I'm doing it, and I can't begin to tell you how good that feels.
The really crappy part of all of this is that 2 years ago, when I went through the severe withdrawals, I told my wife and family about the addiction and have convinced them that I have not taken any for the last 2 years. What's worse is that I have a 3 year-old daughter and I've been on this stuff the entire time she's been alive.
I have to say though, that Tram has definately smoothed out my mood for the last 3 years and has given me the energy and desire to do many productive things that I normally probably would not have done. Though at the same time, I have neglected my family because I don't feel any guilt or remorse while taking it. So I was able to avoid the guilt of neglecting my family while doing other things (like starting and running an internet business in the evenings).
It's time to end this charade of happiness and get back to actually being happy with real life.
Anyway last night i couldn't sleep at all was tossing and turning due to the fact i stopped my tramadol on wen morning ,myself i thought i'm not gonna let this get to me as ive been on the abuse side of things before and its not a nice line to go down ..Since wen ive been feeling irritable,not shaking just stressed..very twitchy and all my limbs seem to be on edge and very paraniod..
So this morning after having one single tablet of tramadol ,i walked to chemist and got myself some co-codamol tabs and ive took 2 since and now i feel myself again ..
I was upping and upping the dose of tramadol i was taking and to me doctors seem fine to dish out and give you persciption of 1-2 tabs 4 times daily ,and that was what i was doing to combat the fear of having a gall-stone attack ..
But coming of the things has made me feel real bad yesterday i threw up,sleep all afternoon and then awake all night ..and if that was just on the prscibed course then i dread to know how you all feel ..
That drug should be controlled more ,im gonna be telling the doctor i'm not using again and when i go in hospital they are not to give me ..
Its like a narcotic drug and severe withdraw symtoms ...It feels like the craving for a drink ,back when i did drink to take away all the nasty feelings ..but i didn't i took co-codamol before i stared tramadol with no withdrawals and now i'm staying on them and will tell my gp ...
I hope you all esp mandy get over this nasty terrible tablet that has so many hooked and i bet half don't know they are till they get took off it ..
they need a huge warning lable ..that even using the perscibed dose can lead to addiction ...
Anyway thats my side of the story ..
keep ya chin up all ..you can do it ,life can be a whole lot better without tramadol ..
((((((((((((((huggs to all)))))))))))))))))))
Is your husband supportive? I also cannot go into a medical detox, but my husband has been a HUGE help. He keeps the pills hidden from me and only gives me exactly what avisg helped me schedule out. He also lets me curl up and cry as much as I want because he knows soon this will be over. This is the first time I let him know what's going on and the first time I think I'm actually going to kick this. I would recommend letting your husband in on what's going on so you can have a support network. Don't do it alone! And if he's not accepting, we're all here for you!
I finally got online and have found I am not alone with my symptoms, hence why I am here. I actually am down to one pill a day, and I feel horrible. I am real depressed, and horribly jittery and anxious. I know if I popped a pill right now, I would feel a whole lot better for a while, then real bad again…a vicious cycle I’m sure all can relate too. I am determined to beat this, but wonder how long before I feel better “off” this drug? I am also a serious Triathlete, and this has hindered my training greatly. Actually people at work are asking if I am alright, because they notice something is not right. Work has been difficult going through this stuff.
The very best luck to all going through this nightmare!!!
Tim
I have been taking 2 tramadols (50mg) a day since last Tuesday (1/8) ...I was taking 2pills 3 times a day...the hot flashes are bad....easy to get around now that its cold...I just go outside for a bit...good to clear my head too....sleeping has been bad...i remember waking a few times but my boyfriend said I am keeping him up so I am on the couch now....he is helping me as much as he can but he dosent understand...heck we dont even drink here so this is all new to both of us.
I was put on tram. April of 2006 for early RA..I had been popping advil about 4 pills 3 times a day and my doc said that wasnt good so he gave me a prescrip...NEVER once told me anything about it.....it helped but then one day I left my pills home...I was use to stopping for my morning coffee on the way to work and then taking my 1st 2...well I realized I had left them home...didnt think anything of it...but by the middle of the day I was having withdraws ...it was then I knew I was in trouble so once the holidays were over and I knew my hours would be cut back at work...easier to take off...I started getting myself off.
Its been a week of pure hell!!!!! I feel strange....I dont have the flu like feeling....just spacey and today I have a REALLY bad headache.
My days off...I get my boys to school and i curl up on the couch all day and sleep...I havent had a problem getting tired later at night so I am planning to keep doing this....when I am a sleep I'm fine....now I have this fear of going to sleep and not ever waking up....I have become the biggest BIT**...its like PMS times 10,000
I dont know if I can do this and I need all the help and support I can get!!!
We can support one another ok!!! Talk to you again soon. If you ever need to talk, my email is "***@****"
Tim
Drinking every night...well I think you should actually watch that too...that would be something else you would have a time getting off!!!!! Ive been thinking about it too....we always have a get together new years eve...and we have a whole cabinet of left over stuff...I havent drank in...like 2 years I guess...this past year because of the Tramadol...and the year before I was sick....we arent drinkers here....anyways...its SO temping to think I could just get drunk and forget about it...but I know the next day I will feel like shi*....and I dont want that either!!
How many were you taking a day? Are you still taking any (tramadols) or did you go cold turkey? You mentioned your friend gave them to you....did your doc ever give you them or just your friend?? Only asking because if your friend is hooked too...maybe they should join you in stopping too!
My headache is going finally!!!! I took some advil and feel better. Its about time for me to take my 2nd pill of the day...I'm sure thats what the headache was from...I posted on here but another thread and it was mentioned I should cut the pills in half...take 2 a day but 4 throughout the day....so now I have to figure out how to cut the pills....I know I can go cold turkey no way no how.
I'm here for you too...day or night just email me! Supporting each other through this would be great....my boyfriend is trying but he has no clue how bad it is.
Thanks!!
Sat morning now at work....I couldn't log in at home because I have web TV and it's different than a regular computer....I was super bummed because I was needing the support last night.
Last weds surfing the net is when I found out tramadol was causing all these problems, especially the info at this site. I knew I had to stop so I cut my dose down, but figured that would just prolong my agony. Friday I did not take a pill and I felt horrible...like I was getting the flu and real nervous feeling and strange thoughts. Last night was super bad and almost took a pill or a half, but then I remembered all the pain these pills are causing and did not cave into the temptation. I had a few drinks to relax and went to bed early, and had really creepy dreams and was freezing cold, but made it through OK I guess.
This morning I don't really know how I feel...hard to explain. Yes, I am quitting cold turkey and hope I can make it. I don't crave the initial good feeling tramadol gives me, but only remember the negative. I did not take as many as others....200 to 250 mg a day mostly. If I really needed a mental boost I might take a pill more. The past week I tried to take one in the morning, and a 1/2 in the afternoon which seemed to help me cut back. Then weds and Thurs I only took one pill and that's when the crazies really started in my brain and body. I guess I figured on a lower dosage than most, I could do this cold turkey....I want rid of this AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, but am kinda scared doing it this way. I just wish I knew how long this is going to take before I feel like the "real" me again, and for the withdrawals to end???? But I do have some pills with me in case I get too bad, but really have no plans on taking any.
My friend gave some pills to start with, then I liked them so much for my back pain (and unfortunately how good they made me feel mentally too) that I asked my doctor for a scrip and he was fine with it...and it was only by a quick phone call. My friend only takes one pill a day and says he doesn't feel anything like we describe. And has been taking them for many many years...he has an open scrip for the rest of he life if he wants. I will admit through that when he needs a mental lift, he pops a pill and then feels better...he got sucked in just like we did. I will continue to talk to him about what me/we are experiencing.
I have a question....I have been on tramadol for about 2 years. Why does this drug work so well for a period of time, then turns into this monster we are dealing with now??? I try to think back about the time this drug made me feel great....then horrible, but I can't really but my finger on the time frame.
Let me know how you are doing pixie. I care and I am concerned for you and others here also!!! I did not check my Email before I came to work this morning, so I hope you got my mail last night. It would be nice to have someone to talk to that understands if things get real bad, and would love to support you also.
Thanks soooo much for your support....we can do this. No we WILL do this!!!
Tim
I had a busy day...started at 7am and wont be over now til 11pm tonight...I am at work...came in at 3pm today.
I had a pill this morning at about 9am....when I 1st get up I start feeling the hot flashes and just yucky right away but within 2 hours thats it...with my 2 boys running around fighting all I do is stand there SCREAMING at them...I feel like such a bad mom...I know they have to wonder why all of a sudden I am SO mean...but I cant help it...I just feel YUCKY!!! Then around 2:30 I took another one so I could come in to work and not have the shakes and be sweating etc...no one here knows anything about it....I dont even know if they knew I was taking them.
I never felt anything when I took them....I mean they seemed to give me energy...I think that was because the pain in my knees was gone...but Ive taken pain meds before when.... I broke my ankle....then once I broke my toe....boy that was worst then the ankle too!!!....and then different times for dental things...now those I did feel "high" and yeah I can see how someone can get hooked on those...but I honestly never felt high or anything with the tramadol so my withdraws arent a mental thing...it honestly a physical thing...and its really freaking me out!!
My thing is the spaced out feeling...I dont like it at all!! and its the hardest thing in the world to explain....also I have another headache today...
And bad dreams here too!! I never remembered my dreams...at least not since I was a kid....well I remember them now and I dont sleep a entire night without waking up at least once....my boyfriend said I am tossing and turning all night...I do remember waking up often and feeling like its 100 degrees ....I am sleeping with a fan on my night stand now...helps some....well thats when I am sleeping in my bedroom...last 2 nights I have been on the couch...not fair to keep him up all night and in our livingroom a turn on the ceiling fan on high and it feel so good!
Well I have to get to work...so I will check in later tonight or tomorrow morning!
I am staying over at work tonight...I get off at 11pm and then have to come back in at 7am...no point in driving home...getting there at 12am...not be able to get to sleep til about 2am from all the coffee I need to drink to get home okay...and then would need to leave my house by 6am to get here by 7am...I do this every other weekend....kinda nice really...I am looking forward to it tonight...sleeping in a bed!!!
Take care!
I have never increased my dosage on my own. I have taken up to 300mg/day, but normally stay with 200/day. It seems like many of you are simply abusing what has been prescribed to you for a good reason and taking it to another level that it was never intended for. It has never made me "high", I can't imagine why anyone would think it was a good drug for recreation or abuse.
I AM addicted to it. I have tried to get off of it, it's very difficult. The ONLY reason I wanted to get off of it, was to see if it was still really helping me, and if my other meds were sufficient enough w/o it. I did this with each of my meds. The fewer I take, the better off I feel I am.I did this so I would also know what each and every med does for me.
To me, Tramadol is not that great of a pain killer, but does help enough to get me out of bed, start my day, and rids me of daily fever and flu-like pain. It certainly doesn't help with acute pain.
I'll continue to take it as long as I can. Since I take it for true medical reasons, I am under my doctor's care, I do not abuse that whatsoever, I do not see any reason not to continue taking it.
It's not a horrible drug, just don't abuse it.
s
I think you are judging people who was prescribed a drug by their doctor, and trusting their doctors ability to treat pain, then found out this drug is bad. Many, like myself, found out how bad this drug is on our own like I didn't searching the internet. If I would not have found out on my own, I would still be a mess with the horrible affects of tramadol.
I am done with this drug for ever, thankgoodness....and hope and pray that all that are trying to stop this drug too, will succeed. I can answer any questions about my quit if anyone needs suggestions or help.
Tim
My name is Ryan. I am a medicaly discharged Air Force Vet at 22 years old. I never thought I would be a homless junkie willing to pay up to 3000 dollars for a ER viset because the VA took to long getting my meds (Tramidol.) I havnt had it in almost 2 days now and I am litteraly freaking out. I am staying at a friends house and havnt slept for over 36 hours. I am starting to get on thier nervs I can tell. Dry heeving in the bathroom right next to thier bedroom just isnt working for them, and I think I could do without it also. Is there anything I can take besides tramidol to make this hell go away?
Good luck!
I've been fighting this battle for years, pulled the plug again yesterday.....hateing life right now.
JJ
I have been reading everyones comments and let me tell you the addiction that comes with trammadol is awful. I got that way by total accident like most everyone. I had heath problems and I told my GP that I did not want anything that would make me be addicted and she gave me oh my the wonderful drug trammadol or as I called it trammy. Anyways there is hope at the end of the tunnel I kicked it by myself with a lot of hot baths and restless nights and my emotions went nuts. But I stopped cold turkey. and I will not lie to anyone it was pure hell but it can be done. It has been a hard road to travel I went from a lively person to one who could not function as a human being with out a trammy and I even got in to trouble over it. but I will not go into detail on that one. Anyone my thoughts on the matter is simply this our wonderful law system and GP's and the DEA. need to get a clue if you want to fight a war you need to quit looking at it like a war these are real people who need help sometimes its not our fault that we find ourselves in this mess. And we are treated like ****. Our Society needs to rethink this whole problem and start treating people as human beings somewhere along the line people have lost sight of caring. but to anyone out there you can get yourself off the pills it takes time and people who care to help you get there. I still feel bad sometimes but I refuse to get back on the pills I lost myself and I finally I'm finding myself again. I don't look down on myself for ending up where I was or anyone else for that matter. But if I can ever give advice I would be happy to do so but you know what is the bottom line to this story. Is simply this we can do it I say we because its not just me its not just you its us and we are worth it the sun will shine again. I hope that I did not offend anyone with this I know that my road that I travel is not over its never over you battle it everyday every minute every second And I could slip and fall but I hope that I have the strength and the courage to pick myself back up and start walking one more time.
I have had other friends addicted to this drug as well, and it is vicious. She hid the addiction from me for nearly a year before I became seriously concerned about her health problems, which were all side effects from tramadol. The side effects for my girlfriend so far have included short term memory loss, disorientation, multiple grand mal seizures, marked weight loss, severe leg and body pains(when she stops taking them), depression, decreased sex drive and general lack of motivation.
Since she can't work without the drugs, she has decided to quit her job so that she can seek treatment. I think she can overcome this with my help, but I'm not sure what course of action to take. We can't afford inpatient rehab, and I feel unsure about outpatient treatment simply because I can't be there for her during the day because I am working. Has buprenorphine been effective for anyone here?
In the last few years its been the fairly severe arthritis creeping in to cause pain, not helped by a fairly labour intensive job that constantly aggravates.
Moderate to severely moderate pain ensues with plenty of inflammation.
Doctor decided it was time for some prescription meds and tried me on a couple that were not very effective and even side-effects like dizziness or sleepiness.
Last try was Tramacet.
Interestingly, he first asked if the muscle and neck pain led to migraines (and yes it did I said) and so that was the specific reason for Tramacet.
At first I was told to take them just on 'bad days' but I have to tell you they worked so well.. just awesome.
Now these are 37.5 mg of tramadol hcl (and 325 'aspirin') and I found that 1 or 2 after work was brilliant for stopping the post-labour pains.
See, I read the dosage and saw the 'usual' dosage being 1-2 every 4 hours up to 8 daily (thats 8 X 37.5),
here I was only taking 2-3 a day.
I tried taking 4 and then 5 another day (still about half the 'usual dosage') and I was right 'stoned' out of my tree!
Really just 3 a day and I am pretty much in dreamland.
Anyways,
The next time I went in I just told my Dr that I figured I was taking too much and he reminded me that he prescribed 3 a day.
I explained that I felt the need to experiment to test the limits and 3 was about right..almost too much.
So being a pretty good Dr he said he would give me 60 pills per prescription (instead of the box of 100),
and,
he prescribed 2 a day (see his thinking was if he said 2 then I might take 3 which is about right heh).
Now I want to say something that I agree with people here who say Tramadol is addictive.
But,
I want to say that there are two different 'senses' of addiction for me and Tramadol and the first one is a 'practical addiction'.
What i mean is this - it actually does allow me to finish a full days work.
I don't mean that Im having withdrawals or enjoy being 'high' at work or that its giving me artificial energy but instead I mean that the pain I have has been preventing me from carrying out what I need to do in order to get paid.
Its allowing me to keep my job and get through 8 hours.
There is the 'practical purpose' its giving me and as an 'objective and useful purpose' I want to be taking it.
Its almost like saying Im 'addicted to my back brace'' in the sense I really want it with me at work to get things done well regardless of 'cravings' or 'feeling good' etc.
OK.
Now I mean to separate that from what is the other idea of addiction in the sense of feeling the need to take the drug to high or euphoric and then that problem where you eventually need more and more just to feel 'normal' and feel 'bad' if you dont take the drug.
Hmm?
Yes, I was surprised how quickly I started using the tramacet like I am addicted to cigarettes.. meaning I began counting how many I had left or thinking about when I could take the next one or 'timing it' around social events, anticipating getting the next prescription before I would run out or if I was in with friends for the night taking that extra one for a little extra one as a bit of a 'treat' to myself or that sort of addictive behavior.
The good news (at least for me thank God) is that I was unable to renew my prescription due to long weekend/lost paperwork/slow chemist/pharmacist,
I think it was 5-6 days.
Now keeping in mind that I was quite used to about 75 - 115 mgs a day,
Since I had two pills left I dropped to 37.5 mgs first day and again on second day.
Then 4 days without.
Its true that I found myself digging through the cabinet and old boxes hoping to find a loose Tramacet heh,
but,
After that I didn't experience much at all in terms of any withdrawals.
On day 4 there came the 'practical' problem that I was having a lot of back pain, inflammation.
I remembered my Doctor recommended Advil Liquigels so I took those instead (actually just one 200mg advil liquigel).
By Day 5 and honestly I felt just great..nice and relaxed, had a great sleep, was feeling as positive as can be with absolutely no signs of depression or moodiness or any of these sorts of things.
To me.. it actually felt like my body was enjoying the tramadol break and my mind was nice and clear.
(not that I feel foggy or confused on tramadol either) but I just felt pretty good.
Having said that.. the funny thing is that when I did get the prescription filled I notice I was very very quick to pick it up and an hour later took the first one so it would 'kick in' by the time was in the middle of the work day.
On the bright side for Tramadol and addiction:
- During the last few months I had been drinking fairly frequently. I would say it was entering a bit of a 'danger zone' of alcoholic tendencies,
but,
oddly enough, when taking tramadol I almost lose any cravings or desire for alcohol.
When I stopped taking the Tramadol for the 4-5 days I even tried to drink one or two nights there on the weekend and actually disliked the alcohol and put it away after half a beer heh.
So maybe the 'tramadol addiction' somehow 'trumped' the alcoholic tendencies I dont know but thats what happened to me anyways.
The 'bad news' is that for some reason I smoke more cigarettes the more tramadol I have in me.. I can almost chain smoke which otherwise would make me feel sick but seems great on tramacet I dont know why heh.
So I want to say that my heart goes out to all of you experiencing these hardcore addictions.
I was actually shocked to read some were taking up to 500mg Tramadol a day!!!
I was in a near catatonic state with a bizarre racing heart the day I took 175 mgs!
I really do love that a member posted a 'taper off' schedule here on this forum and I think that has to be the ideal way to go at the withdrawls... just keep whittling it down.
Heck.. even if you have to chip of 1/20 of a pill each day over a year thats great.
In my experience the advil liquigel was a great great substitute during the gap but even then I am just thankful I did not seem to experience any of these harsh symptoms.
I hope my post does help some people in that there is the possibility many of you will not necessarily have any of these dire withdrawal symptoms.
You might even feel fine, even feel pretty good and even a bit invigorated like I did.
A few people were saying they felt ashamed or stigmatized or embarrassed and I would encourage them to lose those negative feelings about themselves.
If you were prescribed this for moderate to severe pain then its there for a right reason.
You don't feel 'ashamed' because you had a broken ankle and needed your crutch. It was there for a purpose and not because you were just lazy or got a thrill of the feel of the crutch.
Now if you are saying you are taking too much Tramadol then again this is a physical issue.. get objective on the problem but please don't apply 'shame' or 'guilt' here.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and I hope we all stay on the positive realisitic.
I initially started tramadol as it was prescribed for my carpal tunnel and after surgery for pain relief. Then a few years went by and as getting older I developed this arthritis and tried all those glucosamine etc stuff and still had aching knees and shoulders etc and remembered the tramadol and got some from mexico and it really helped. I started taking it after working a 12 hr shift so I could sleep without the throbbing joints only 50mg as that was what the capsules came in and through this year I now take 50mg twice a day but do try to not take it on days I didnt have to be on my feet for the 12 hr shift, I am concerned if I am addicted to it even if it is such a small dose...also I am 55 years old and hope this med wont screw around with my heart anyone know???