Need to quit painkillers, any ideas on easing withdrawal?

[feelin_it_in_ak]

I started a med regimen 1.5 yrs ago for 2 herniated discs in my neck.  Had shots in neck, therapy, PT and traction.  I am still no better.  Take 2 Flexeril at night and that's not what worries me.  I can't make the 60 Vicodin last all month.  Now I have 3 doctors writing me scripts for 60 Vicodin, 30 Vicodin and 60 Hydrocodone 650 tab.  I want to quit and not sure cold turkey is safe.  I know my neck will still hurt and feel like someone stabbed me but I can't take the lies and manipulation of acquiring enough pain medicine anymore.  I am cranky and quick to anger when I don't take at least 6 a day.  That and I have gained 35 pounds because I HAVE to have sugar-candy and cereal and icecream.  If I'm not takiing enough pills, I eat more sugar.  Is that normal??  To be hooked on narcotics and nursing it along with sugar?  HELP me please!

[corey411]

Hey, sorry about your neck and the pain that you have to deal with. Have you ever heard of Neurontin? It is a non-narcotic med used for nerve pain. It works for alot of people. It also has been known to help with symptoms of withdrawal in some. Best of luck. Corey

[this_big]

There are a ton of things that help "ease" the w/ds,but nothing that Ive found,and beleive me I HAVE looked..lol..that makes it easy.This being my 3rd CT 8-12 10/500 a day.Im on day 7 now(longest i've made it yet)I was fooling myself about wanting to quit for a long time.I think one of the biggest things are,you have to REALLY want to quit.But it can be done.stick around there are other options besides cold turkey.keep posting

[feelin_it_in_ak]

Thank you.  I have been in recovery process before just not for this type of drug.  I had gone to rehab 6 years ago for alcohol and xanax.  I knew things were heading south about 6 months ago when I started taking more than prescribed.  I know I do have legitimate pain but it is clear to me now that painkillers cannot be part of the remedy any longer.  I either live with the pain or go alternative like regular massgae and acupuncture and change my habits to avoid lifting etc.

[Madisonjsmom]

You will not have easy withdrawls....there is no such thing...You are on quite a bit of medication.  I would suggest talking to your doctor because there are some medications that they can perscribe that will help with the withdrawls.  You also need to have a plan in place to manage your pain...maybe some kind of after care also to help you to not relapse.  Best of luck to you.  Stay around and you will get some good on advice here.