What can you tell me about Opana er

[Susan41]

My fiancee' was recently prescribed Opana ER, when he started three weeks ago he was on 5mg twice daily, then the doctor moved him to 10mg 2xdaily, now it is 20mg 2x daily. I am very concerned?

[sandee1818]

There is a huge difference between addiction and dependence. He is dependent on his medication for management of pain. Addiction is entirely different.
Treating chronic pain is no different from treating any other disease. My doctor once told me this, he said would a  diabetic stop his insulin for fear of it and the effects of it. Of course not and treating chronic pain is no different. Sure the medications are usually opiates but when used as the doctor prescribes he should have no problems. The actual stats of those who are treated with chronic pain becoming addicted are very low, minimal.
Try not worry:)

[Susan41]

Thank you for the information, he has had pain issues all his life, he had a partial amputation at birth of his left leg and it still causes pain. A serious car accident two years ago left him with a broken hip, many broken bones and many steel rods and plates. He is finding it more and more difficult to just handle day to day activities, however I am very concerned with the addiction side effects of Opana or any Opiat for that matter. I do not want to see him in a rehab situation because of pain killers. There has to be a better option.

[ChadJ]

I wouldn't be too concerned - Does he have a history of addiction or diversion? As long as he's really hurting, then he needs something to help him.

[sandee1818]

Hi,
  Opana ER is an extended-release oral formulation of oxymorphone.
I am assuming that the doctor started him on the lowest dose and then titrated up to manage his pain sufficiently. Doctors normally do this so that the Pt is on the lowest dose possible to manage their pain. Tolerance issues requires that over an extended period of time you will need more medication to get the same pain relief.
For this reason among others doctors want the patient on the lowest dose possible.
Does your fiancee' have any addiction issues?
How long has he been in pain management or had pain issues?
I will be glad to answer any questions you or your fiancee' has as well as the other members here:)