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Avatar universal

RAS from Opiate withdraw

I have been clean for 11 days and the withdraw symptoms are tolerable. Not fun by any means but it has given me a reality check on what I have done to my body over the past 8 years.
Anyways I have developed RAS (restless arm syndrome) so bad that I can't sleep at all. I'm back and forth from the couch to the bed all night. I finally feel asleep at 5am and woke up at 9am. This has been like this for the past 5 nights. I go back to work next monday Nov 5th and there is no way I can function if I'm not sleeping but 3-4 hours a night. My friend gave me valuim last night and I took 5mg, it did nothing. Is that too low of a dose, do I need to take more because I am an addict, or is there something else I can get prescribed to me to help me sleep?
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Avatar universal
Definitely the Neurontin (gabapentin).  It takes away most withdrawal symptoms including the restless limbs which for most people is the worst part of the withdrawal.  I always had to take a bunch of it though. But the thing is that it makes you very sleepy so when I went through 2.5 days of withdrawal I slept pretty decently.  It should work for you since you are on day 11.  Good luck and I will be thinking about you!  If you cant get Neurontin try some generic (or brand name) immodium.  It has a mild opiate component to it and can help ease the physical symptoms. You will probably have to take more than recommended though.
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1684282 tn?1614701284
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
I am so glad that you have decided to get clean. You should be very proud of what you were able to accomplish.  See if your doctor can write you a prescription for some Requip for restlessness (it is the very best treatment for RLS or RAS), Neurontin for anxiety and malaise, some Flexeril or Soma for a few weeks for muscle spasms and maybe some Seroquel low dose, for sleep. It will make your withdrawals easier.  Valerian and Magnesium is sometimes helpful remedies over the counter.
The residual symptoms of insomnia and depression can last another few months. Thus, it is not easy, but it gets better and better over time and you can look forward to a drug free healthy energetic you in the future.
Take a look at my blogs about options for detox and recovery. You may also take a look at my clinic website where I also have my blogs and a lot of other info about drug addiction and recovery. Look especially into the blog and the info on Naltrexone therapy after getting clean. It really improves your chances of staying clean for good by cutting down your physical cravings.
There is a injectable form available now that is covered by all major medical insurances called Vivitrol that you would need to get only once monthly to stay clean. Just keep it in mind for the future. Good luck to you.  
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