About this horrible pain killer

[wannahelpu09]

I was wondering what I could do, as a wife to an addict, to help him realize that he has a problem. He has a chronic back condition that debilitates him from everyday normal activity. There is no doubt that he needs something for the pain, but he has now became an addict to Vicoden. Are there any other alternatives to this drug? I really think this drug should be banned. I really, honestly believe that it is ruining lives and is being abused as much as Oxycontin, Meth or any other illegal street drug. What would you recommend for me to do to get him off of this when he is in such denial but also help him with his back. I honesty feel like I have done all that I can do and feel like I am at the end of my rope. It is ruining our marriage and is making him distant from our kids....HELP!

[nick30]

i don't know if it's possible for you to talk to his dr(maybe you could go with your hubby - but don't tell him you want to go to talk about addiction, just say you're concerned about his level of pain relief) but it might be a good idea to get him off vicoden and on to another longer acting medication. if his pain is severe and constant then he may need something for it. quitting isn't an option for everyone. banning the drug isn't the answer either. many people use it as ordered and it helps them, no need for them to suffer.
there are other drugs that are less open to abuse and provide real pain relief. these are things that you need to talk to the dr about.
the issue of chronic pain and narcotic pain killers is extremely complex and individual. you should really try to get his dr involved for his own benefit(legitimate pain relief)and for your sanity.

good luck to you

nick

[outotown]

He has to see he is an addict for himself, then he will get help. Its like telling some one to lose weight frist they have to think they need to loose, then they have to want to lose weight. I know these pills can destroy a family, it almost got mine and almost got me dead. Maybe you can try and get him to read this site, there are alot of people on here who are in chronic pain Im one of them. But the pills and MY BEHAVIOR cost me my 13 year old job my new truck, the electric to the house, my house was sold for taxes and a very very good friend bought it and gave it back to me. I tried to commit suicide almost rn my wife off and lost the recept of my children and myself. Please try and get him to read this site. My prayers are with you and May God Bless your home!!

[boogieman]

hi. if you haven't yet, check out al-anon. you'll meet others who are fighting the same battle and it will make a difference. take care,  gm

[10356]

Welcome to the forum...The only kind of pain control for a addict that is long term.. are acupuncture chiropractic care massage and things of this sort.. I to deal with pain.. I can say that now off the norco.. my pain has actually been reduced.. I now take motrin 800 when bad.. while in active addiction our brain sends out signals to increase the pain the body feels in order to get more opiate..and as our tolerance grows our addiction grows out of control.. But a addict first must admit they have a addiction problem.. You can not do it for him.. but you can be a great support.. have you spoken to his Dr. Do you know how much he is using a day.. You are right it dose make us distant from our loved ones.. I hope you will be able to reach him.. more will be along for advice.. maybe you can read him the responses.. Please stick around for support and read as knowledge is the key to understanding.. I wish you and your family the best.. lesa