Peripheral Neuropathy Pain

[Susiedarling]

I have been given Neurontin by doctors, however, I get ill even on the very low dosages.  I find Ultram really helps me on my extremely bad day.  Most doctors do not want to give out Ultram but like I said, I only take one on a bad day before I go to bed.   I did get a script once for Ultracet but it was not as good for my pain.   Do you feel that Ultram is helpful with this condition and also, is it a bad thing that I am not on any other kind of drug such as Neurontin or Lyrica for this condition.
Thanks.

[J T Junig, MD PhD]

Some doctors are rightfully concerned about the negative effects of opiate medications on a person's quality of life;  this leads to the general principle that pain should first be treated using non-addictive medication, and only if a person fails that type of medication should opiates be used.  But if you do not tolerate a medication, you shouldn't be forced to take it-- and there is certainly nothing for you to feel guilty about.  No, it is not a bad thing at all-- if the medications make you ill, they are not right for you!

Ultram is a complicated medication that has some opiate effects and greater non-opiate effects.  It can become addictive in some people, but most people in my experience do not find it to be 'enticing' enough to be 'habit-forming'.  Particularly if you are taking it intermittently, and not daily, it is a fine choice.  The main risk with the medication is the risk of seizures-- generally only a problem if the daily limit of 400 mg is exceeded, or if a person combines Ultram with an antidepressant-- as both medications will increase serotonin levels in the brain.  

[dorr77]

I have been having strange, sporadic--very weird at random moments tingles, firing as in electric feelings, assorted spazzy hurts,  stabs...we are trying to get to the matter at hand. Started, I was at Internist, sent to Rhemy, then over to surgeon for one lump taken out biopsy, back to both others & now at my Gastro. Since I  have been told since one of lumps taken was skin cancer--he decided to obtain more since I was to be under & several places had 'views' to address & now have an opportunity to seek Dermo patronage. I am taking twice daily small amounts of Predisone, a dual helping of hydro-Q & the Gab's---so plz, help me to understand, is the Sjogrens, M-G, polymyoitis, & scleroderma the most common dilemmas in upper abdomen pain issues usually as found with the crazy dry mouth skin & eyes, painful twists & jabs, bloatedness, edema & poor rest & sleep habits? I would love some human feedback. I've had Holidays to work around, with all places giving assorted hours & down time which I do understand but I am wanting to know as it seems several medical services seem to not be at "same conference table.'' It is MY body and I want to know now...although I am aware it is not snap snap! INFO would just be appreciated on what is kosher & what is fabricated or just blah blah yada yada to appease folks. Thank you for the time IF ya will so address. **Appreciate the services y'all give! :-)