Methadone for Post Thorocotomy Pain Syndrome

[JuJu61]

I have been suffering for 7 years with post thorocotomy pain. I had the a thorocotomy to remove a benign tumor. I was out of work for one year!! I just starting taking methodone. Has anyone ever used this for the pain that comes with this surgery??

[concerned621]

I am on Methadone for chronic pain management.  Did you try any other drugs first? it's a little strange if you did not try any other medications and they put on Methadone to begin with.  Did you discuss that with the doctor? Methadone builds up in the system very quickly in some people. I just started taking it 2 weeks ago. I was very weak, very sleep. My blood pressure is normally low but it dropped to 115/50.  The Methadone built up so quickly in my system. I had to drop to 1/2 pill at a time. It can suppress your breathing but only at higher does.  Be careful with it. If you have not tried some of the other meds, like oxycodone and your insurance will pay for it talk to your doc about it.  
What is a Thorocotomy? I'm sorry you ended up with so much pain. Best of luck.

[seano]

Yes! I have been on methadone fo pain control. It's a common misconception that it is only for recovering heroin addicts. I also do know that it is given for long-term pain, and NOT pain that should go away after a surgical procedure. Drugs like percocet, vicoden , or oxycodone are given for post-surgical type pain. Methadone is a chronic pain medication, as well as treatment for opiate addiction.

[Tuckamore]

Hi JuJu,

Welcome to the Pain Management Forum. I am glad that you found us.

I think that methadone is used for all types of chronic pain from all sources. If it's beneficial in pain reduction and control for you that seems to be the important fact. I have read some great articles on the benefits of methadone for pain management. Some physicians beleive it is the best route.

I have also heard some chronic pain patients state the withdrawal is the worst. However other patients name different drugs and claim the same. I really beleive it's what works for the individual.

Best of Luck to You,
Tuck