Former or Current Fioricet Addicts...will it really ever get "better?"

[allk00]

I have been addicted to fioricet with codeine for 4 years. I am currently on a taper program...about half way through. It is hell to be perfectly honest, and I am already so so scared about what will happen when I am completely done with this horrible drug.
I have tried quitting several times before...with no luck. The only difference between then and now is that I am SERIOUS about quitting. To make matters even easier, the Dr. who eased my addiction is retiring (actually today is his last day), so that helps not having him around aiding in my addiction.
I just am already having fears about the withdrawals. I have had many and I mean many weeks where I have gone without pills, and it is the most horrific hellish nightmare. The rebound headaches, no sleeping, runny nose, yawning, sore eyes, stomach ache, nausea, diarrhea, did I say no sleep?, sweating, aching....the whole 9 yards. I am so worried that after this taper program that I will still have horrible withdrawal symptoms, and that I will still crave and want the stupid med so bad that I will cave and go begging at another dr.
So what I am asking......is does the addiction TRULY ever end. When does the withdrawals really end....when will this hell be over??? I really know that every person and situation is unique, but I love hearing others stories so I can know what to expect. Thank you in advance...and to others suffring, I feel your pain..... :(

[my_mayberry]

one thing, though, is that migraine management becomes much easier after withdrawal symptoms have passed. i get far more migraines when i'm taking this drug than when i'm not.

this drug DOES work great when it isn't abused....but when it is, it makes a terrible time of managing migraines.

[my_mayberry]

as stated, there are 2 highly addicting meds that you are withdrawaling from and it's hard to say whats what, really. most physical symptoms will last only as long as normal opiate withdrawal lasts. there are some, though, that last much much longer...and these are generally the barbiturate.

barbiturate and opiate withdrawal  can trigger a rather severe depression....barbiturate withdrawal can produce anxiety issues lasting for well over a year or more after discontinuing. for me, all the depression/anxiety lasted a few years. the urges to take pills never totally went away. addiction never goes away, thats one thing to keep in mind. it does get much much easier though. you will always be addicted to your drug of choice.....always. knowing that can help you stay sober, though. it can help you not make the mistake i made and so many others have made.

best of luck 2 you

[susansuno]

I think you gotta hit rock bottom,I was on fiorinal #3 for a few months but had no problem getting off.Idk how long it is with this,the w/d but you need some kind of support group and aa or na.yes,I think it does truly end.GOD BLESS

[Htownnofrown]

Yes it gets much better. The physical symptoms are terrible but you will be able to get through them if you truly are willing to do it. Get some aftercare as soon as possible, it helps with the withdrawal symptoms, mind over matter stuff. Good luck! We can do this!

[vicki595]

Hi~  Yes,it does get better.  With a slow,proper taper there will be minimal withdrawals when you are finally off the pills.  You're dealing with two addictions so that puts a different twist on things.  Most of what you've experienced is the codeine withdrawal.

Think positive and stick to your plan. Treat your symptoms with otc's. This can be done.
Don't ever give up because this stuff will hurt you badly if you don't stop.

Be sure to take in a lot of fluids,eat properly,take vitamins,immodium,pepto,and Nyquil
as directed.  Try Melatonin for sleep. I used to take 3 tabs. Take it only at night or in a dark room.

I took Fioricet plain for a very long time. I tapered off and have done well. I was very serious about kicking it as I took A LOT every day,for years. I don't miss it.

Good luck~
Vicki