Methadone withdrawl

[RB62]

I have been on methadone for three years.  I have gotten off several times and gone right back to using pills, heroin or whatever I can get my hands on.  My depression really kicks in when I am not on any narcotic.  I am on antidepression medication and have been for several years now.  I only have to go to my program once every two weeks to pick up my methadone.  I am sick of methadone running my life but I am terribly afraid to get off again.  Withdrawls really frighten me.  No one knows I am on methadone so when I tell them they look at me like I am dirty.  People at AA or  NA don't consider me to be sober, but I haven't picked up a needle or a pill since August 8, 2008.  I am looking for some advice.  Should I try and get off again?  Last time it took several months.  I am in my fourth semester at a community college and I know I am going to have to take time off from school.  

[weaver71]

I tried and failed to get off methadone for a couple years. Finally, I took 4 days of Norco 150mg then stopped everything for three days until I hit about 25 on COWS scale. I took subutex in the morning at 8 and in 30 minutes I was clear headed and my horrible dope sick went away. Suboxone and Subutex are not for everyone, but I believe it is saving my life. Mind you, I am following my doctors directions and going to counseling weekly. It's only been two days, but I finally feel like I can taper down off of this drug without cravings or severe withdrawal. Also, I've been taking the Amino Acid Protocol listed at the bottom of this page. At least the supplements that I could find and it helped a lot with withdrawal symptoms. Find a good doc and self educate as much as possible. I definitely am glad to have meth out of my system. Take it slow, do it right and you can beat this thing. I hope my story helps. Good luck.

[lynnalb15]

Hey weaver Sorry to be nosy but I read one of your posts. How did you get on subtex. I am currently on methadone and am scared to come clean to my dr but I need off ASAP I'm so sick of this life style. I need help on how to get help!

[weaver71]

I know that feeling, I asked around until I found a doctor that can prescribe it. Doctors have to take a special class to prescribe it. I wish I could have tapered but... well I'm an addict. I have to drive an hour to go to my doc, but I'm glad I did it. Methadone is so hard to kick for me. I went to two doctors before I decided to go with Dr. White in Redding CA. The first doc told me to go out in the streets and buy more methadone and taper. I flipped out got really high the next day. Luckily the second doc actually wanted to help. I suggest doing a lot of research on suboxone or subutex before you induce. It can be horrible with an ignorant doc or wonderful with a knowledgeable doc. He wants me totally clean off sub in 3 to 6 months. Good luck and feel free to ask anything.

[lynnalb15]

Wow redding is close to me. Thank you for the info I will be researching adap