Dihydrocodine addiction

[Billybean10]

Hi, this is my first time on this site so pls bare with me. I have been addicted to dihydrocodine 40mg for 10 year and 30mg dihydrocodine for 7 years taking up to 18 tablets a day, 4 of the 40mg and 14 of the 30mg. I referred myself to the addiction team and last week (Monday) I started on a 12mg patch of Fentanyl and was reduced to 6 tablets a day. Then yesterday morning I was put on a 18mg fentanyl patch and no tablets. I was told I wouldn't suffer any withdrawels but I am. I feel totally crap, weak, cold, goose bumps, tingling, runny nose, sneezing and just not right. I will be reduced off the Fentanyl gradually over a yr. my question is how long will I feel this rubbish? Thank u for ur time. (I can't speak to my support worker today as she's in clinic)

[Billybean10]

Thank u Debbie. I have a benzodiazepine worker who has put me on this course, I'm having doubts now. I've got tablets in my draw but I'm determined not to take them, I put every bit of faith into these patches now I'm not do sure...,.

[atthebeach]

I too wondered why instead of a taper from the pills did they put you on the fentanyl? I wouldn't stay on the fentanyl anywhere near a year from 18mcgs.
It is a much stronger drug.
Do you someone who can help you and hold the pills for you?
Pain actually increases from being on opiates long term.
It is called hyperalgesia, opiate induced pain.
I would try to get off the fentanyl soon or switch back to the pills and do a taper.
Sending healing and prayers,
Debbie

[Jinx_777]

oh i see.  thanks for clearing that up.  
i am still not sure about using fentanyl to detox off a short acting med.

maybe others will chime in.

[Billybean10]

Hi Jinx_777 I have one 12mg and then I was told to cut one 12mg in half so I would have 18mg. I will be reduced off the fentanyl over a year. I've just been to the chemist and got advice off the pharmacist and bought lots of vitamins etc, I'm feeling very rough and emotional.

[Jinx_777]

how are you on 18 mg of fentanyl???  they come in 12.5, 25, 50, 100 mcg.  

it takes awhile for the fentanyl to build up in your system.
to be honest with you, you are trading a rather short detox for a REALLY long and hard one.  

i recently detoxed from the 50 mcg patch and it was the worst experience ever.  it has been close to 60 days and i still have no energy and RLS and restless nights

[Billybean10]

Thanks Debbie, I'm so scared of withdrawal, it's really frightening but I absolutely hate this life I'm determined to fight back

[atthebeach]

Hello and welcome. It is important to stay hydrated, drink lots of fluids, try to eat some bland foods,

can you take a hot bath with the patch on?
If so take a hot bath with some Epsom salts.
Congrats on wanting to reclaim your life.
You can also drink protein shakes. You will heal. Your body is adjusting to the drop and change in meds.
Keep the faith.
Sending prayers,
Debbie