Tradol addiction

[dmarieb]

Please help!  I was prescribed tramadol 2 1/2 years ago for sever leg pain.  When the doctors finally realized Ineeded hip replacements, I was already looking forward to taking the tramadol every day.  Not just for the pain, but because it gave me the motivation I needed to get through the day.  After my hip replacements, I went back on tramadaol.  At first, one a day was plenty, now I am up to 3 sometimes 4 and know that it has to end.  I I get very depressed when I don't take a tram, so the doctor gave me Celexa (anti-depressant), but it caused me to gain weight.  I am usually 137, and now at 149 1/2.  I am going to stop taking the celexa slowly, and see if the weight comes off, but still can't stop tramadol.  I need help!

[LeaAnn807]

Yes, you are so right!  This forum and the support on it is phenomenal, and it's good for vets and new people! (and ones like me....somewhere in the middle!!!)  In NA meetings, it's always said that the newcomer is the most important person in the room.  I agree, and the same is true here.  I went to a great meeting tonight.  It is just so great to have people to support you through this battle!  

Any help you need, just ask for it!

TH

[dmarieb]

Thank you again.  i just went to GNC and bought everything described in the Thomas recipe, plus some stuff in the Amino Acid Protocol.  Lot's of healthy food from the grocery store and I am going to start right away.  The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming and I know I need to do this for myself.  I would really like to keep writing.  The support will help all of us.

Thank You

Donna

[LeaAnn807]

Ok.....depression.....I had it too, and about 3 weeks ago I went on an AD to try to get my seratonin going again!  When we stop tram our seratonin levels bottom out, if I understand correctly.  I also take Vitamin B and a multi vitamin.  Some exercise will help both energy and depression.   Also, when we sleep well that helps both!  That's hard to do during WD process!!!  

An antidepressant is not a quick fix.  It takes time, but I think it will help some for me.  Like I said before, you don't need to take an AD with the tram....only after you stop it.  

You will be fine!  It's just going to be hard for a little bit, but then you get to restore some normalcy to your life!!!  It feels so good to not depend on a pill for a good mood and energy!  I'll just take what I have naturally, which isn't much right now, but it's better than needing pills!

[Jebs317]

Hi,
I don't have any experience with taking Tramadol....but what I do know is that you have come to the right place for support and knowledge!  The wonderful people here will help you along as you make your decisions to taper and/or go Cold Turkey.
Hang in there and keep posting......

Kristen

[vicki595]

Hi!  Yes !  You are getting TWO antidepressants there. Not good. The first thing I'd do is get in to see your doctor. Tell him/her what you have learned.  You are on a low dose and it won't be too bad to stop.  I'm concerned and not sure which drug you should taper first. Ergo...the dr. appt.
Now...you are not really alone.  You have found this forum and it's great!!!  So many stellar folks here. We'll help you along...
I can't speak to your depression per se'.  But,vitamins...all of them,especially B vitamins help. Also,exercise releases a ton of endorphins and,I know,my doctor is a firm believer in this. My husband works out daily and is one of the happiest people I have ever known !!   UGHH !  LOL
Keep posting~Don't worry
Vicki

[dmarieb]

Thank you for your comment.  I am just learning how to use this post and just found your response. What did you do for the depression??  I am 53 and live alone.  Sometimes on weekends I don't even leave the house!  I hate myself for doing this, but the tramadol gets me out the door.  I am so pissed off at the doctors for telling me it is not addictive.    I don't even mind the nausea as much as the depression and lack of energy.  Any suggestions?  How long did it take you to feel normal again?

dmarieb

[LeaAnn807]

Hi!  Tramadol is very dangerous for the reasons you already know.  It sneaks up on you by giving you motivation and energy that pain takes away.  It is very addictive.  It's normal to feel depressed when you don't take it.  You will need more and more of it to feel normal.  I was up to about 15 a day when I quit over a month ago.  It was horrible to stop, so please do yourself a favor and get off of it while you are still on a fairly low dose!!!  You should be able to taper pretty easily and do it with minimal withdrawal symptoms.  It is also dangerous to take celexa with the tramadol. I would  NOT do that!  Tram contains an AD, so you are getting too much seratonin.  This could make you very sick.

Good luck!

TH