Methadone withdrawal

[sallyde]

More than 15 years ago, my doctor put me on hydrocodone (40 mgs a day) , and then methadone  (20 mgs a day) to treat chronic pain.  After tapering, I have been clean of these two drugs for 8 weekds.  

However, my WD symptoms are still going strong: diarrhea, restlessness, BAD leg cramps, lack of sleep...

Is it normal for methadone withdrawal to last 8 weeks?  I am starting to think I can't do this!

Thanks

[CWKavinRAS]

Yes, Methadone withdrawal has one of the longest processes of any opiate detoxification.  You should be extremely proud of yourself because very few people are able to detox from Methadone on their own.

At this point, you may have some loss of calcium, minerals or other components that could be adding to the withdrawal symptoms.  When we receive patients who are already withdrawing for a certain amount of time, we always do full blood-work and start supplementing everything that they have lost prior to going to Domus Retreat.  If you have a family physician, have them check you out to see how they are able to assist you with the remaining symptoms without the use of opiates.

It would be a shame for you to give up after all you have already been through and how you have progressed. Stay strong and all the best!

[sallyde]

Now into 10th week clean, my legs burn and hurt so badly, I can't concentrate on anything.  At what point should I start to feel better??
Please advise,
thanks,

[sallyde]

Thank you so much for your reply and encouragement.  I don't really have anyone to talk to that knows anything about this.  
So your kind words and info are GREATLY appreciated....

I am willing to tough this out as long as I possibly can.  But are we talking months?  On average, when does a methadone patient began to get some relief?

THANKS...