how to stop vicodin

[cwhiddon]

I had a 2 level lumbar fusion on 1/15/08, i've been on vicodin 10/500 since then, i took 2-3 per day. Last week i started 5/325 vicodin 1 everyday. I walk 1 mile everyday and my back is stronger,my pain level is probably 2-3 now. I decided i didn't need the vicodin, i would only take it if I had to. Well, I stopped on saturday and by monday i had palpitations, chest pain, nausea,I thought i was having a heart attack. I followed the medication directions, i always took less than prescribed, I don't crave it or wonder where i'll get my next fix.I just want to know how to stop taking the vicodin with the less side effects? I also have rheumatoid arthritis, I take plaquenil and methotrexate for that. I just figured I didn't need the vicodin any longer, the plaquenil has kicked in, I believe this is why my pain is under control. I'm guessing i have a physical dependence, not mental. I would appreciate any answers...Thanks...Carol

[flmagi]

Yes, sounds like you are dependant on them and not addicted. If you're wanting to totally stop the Vics, you'll just need to wait out the withdrawel preiod of about 5 days. Please keep in mind, its extremely easy to move from dependance to addiction, this is what happened to alot of us. Your making a wise choice to rid yourself of them at this point.

[wulfgar]

Some-one will be along that can answer your question. It is late and peps are sleeping, you may want try again in the morning. Sounds like a successful surgery happy for you. Take care