butrans patches

[winnie911]

hi im new to this site, i just wondered if anyone can tell me if its normal to feel spaced out when starting on patches, i have had chronic back pain due to prolapsed discs in my lower  back for around 12 yrs now getting progressively worse i now have arthritis in both hips, both knees lower back, neck and most of my fingers i have tried many pain killers over the years, recently attended a pain management clinic who have arranged yet more physio, cbt counselling and also prescribed 10mg butrans 7 day patches to try to get acceptable  pain control, i also take 20 mg amylitriptiline (dont think I've spelt that right) at night, I also have tramadol for what he called breakthrough pain. I started the patch yesterday n now feel really weird is this a usual side effect, still in considerable pain too

[remar]

I'm not very familiar with these patches but I'm wondering if it might be a good idea to give the 20 mgs ones a chance before doubling your dose? You've only been on them for one day, right?

[HardeyLeone]

I have just started this med and at 20mg!

It has been 24 hours and I think about 4 hours ago I noticed the
waves and rushes! I was spaced out but in a beautiful way. Able
to do normal things. The patch was working on my pain a little and is
doing  more now. My Dr is concerned I'm still not out of pain and has told me
to place another 20mg patch on with this one. WOW!

[winnie911]

thank u so much for replying was getting bit worried,  still feel really tired and not quite with it, I dont drive any more so thats not a problem, Im just hoping the patches will be an answer, pain is not too bad now but as Ive been feeling weird not done much today,

My doctor has said I will need replacement hips and knees in the future hes not keen to do them yet as im 48 and he says its too young so trying other things first instead, im not coping very well at the moment im finding the constant pain almost unbearable

[philnoir]

Butrans patch contains a strong opiate medication, buprenophine, so I'm not surprised you feel "spaced."

You may become accustomed to the feeling within a few days. Until then, avoid driving or other activities that may put you in danger.

Report these symptoms, along with the effectiveness of this medication against pain, to your doctor.

Hope that you feel better.