Methadone for 15 years and Why a Clinic would leave it up to the Addict?

[angie]

I have someone very dear to me that has been on Methadone for 15 years to keep clean from heroin. My thoughts is that it just helped prolong her situation and helping her not reach a bottom. There are even some states that will give it to her free. Florida however does not give it free. It is pretty costly. Yes, I have read all about how it keeps them off the streets. They do not offer any real counseling or really try to help her get off this stuff. Why would a methadone clinic keep someone on the program for so long? I know several people within the program that has been on it for 10+ years. Why would a program leave it up to a drug addict to reduce their dose or get off the program? There was another question posted about Hepatitis C and the effects of Methadone. I would like to just say that the medication that could help the Hepatitis C is blocked due to the use of Methadone. Only quoting the Doctors. Yes, I probably sound Angry. 90% of the time I am not. I attend Alanon and with the help of a greater power than my self I keep the focus on me, Take it One day at a time, Letting go and Letting God.

Thank you for listening to my questions and my thoughts.

[Patrice]

I wa just reading back, and noticed that you have alreaddy answered all of the questions I had before.  I am an addict that just sees what she wants to see, I read were I said I was going to the clinic, before, but this time, it IS gonna happen!!!  My husband is going to make sure of it, so even if I go kicking and screming all of the way, I am going!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Thanks again for pulling my covers and caring about me as on addict to another.  You are the greatest!!!!!  And agin, I will keep you up on my progress

Take Care

Patrice

[Patrice]

Hi Dan

I am going on Monday to give a urine test and then start, I was procratsinating saying I will go when I dope runs out, but now I know the dope will never run out, and if I want to live, I must do it now!!!  Thank you for pulling my covers, Dan, I would never do it without people like you pushing me.  I will let you know what happens.  You said with my counselers permission I can take my restoril, will I also be able to take my antidepressant, it doxipen  75mg, one pill a day.  Thanks again Dan, and have a great weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Take care

Patrice

[tom to Patrice]

while you're reading all the na pubs, don't forget to take a look at the big book of AA, the one that represents the beginning of the movement. Even though it's the stories of "a bunch of drunks" there's something special and very spiritual about the original, especially the Bill W and Dr Bob stuff. Good reading.

[Frankinscense]

Most prescription drugs can be taken while on methadone or LAAM. With the exception of short acting opiates.(vicodin,lortab,oxycodone etc.) Taking these drugs while on methadone will only compromise your recovery.
                                                                  Restoril also, with the permission of your counselor be taken.Patrice,When are you going to start your treatment? Why are you waiting? Good Luck! Be Spiritual!       Dan..

[Patrice]

Thanks for letting me know that I can take my doxipan on LAAM.  Can I also take my restoril 30mg that is prescribed by my doctor? I am terrified of not slepping.  I know I am a good rationalizer, you picked up on it QUICK!  I have made the decision to go on LAAM or just the regular methadone, I have o talk to a counselor therre first.  Thanks for yourr relpy, you are the greatest!!

Take care

Patrice

[Frankinscense]

You can take antidepressants while on LAAM. You must commit yourself to your recovery! Stop rationalising! patrice,you must do what is necesary to accomplish your goals. Be strong. You can do it!
Dan