... patch. My dx is several bulging discs (cervical spine) and spinal stenosis with nerve impingment. I had lyme disease for 5 or 6 years but doctor refused to acknowledge and insisted it was a false/positive test result. I changed dr's and I had a full blown case of LYME disease with co-infections-Erhlichia, Bartonella, and Babesia. My former Dr had me on methotrexate (a strong anti-rheumatic drug) which I had to self inject x2 per week. I was literally bed bound after these injections for about 2 days with very bad nausea, vomiting, and weakness. I later discovered that methotrexate is contraindicated with LYME disease. Anyhow is there anyone out there who has struggled with chronic pain and experienced trouble obtaining pain control for chronic pain? And does this med Butrans (Buprenorphine) work as well or better than the oxycodone? My Dr does not seem to what to increase the oxycodone. I;ve been on 15mg x2 day for several months and have acquired a tolerance but my Dr does not seem to want to increase. I'm between a rock and a hard place. Without the pain control I am in constant pain a solid 8. The pain med oxycodone brings it down to a 3-4 but does not last more than a couple of hrs. Anyone out there experiencing these issues? I would love to have some support. I'm isolated and have no friends as I could no longer work due to this illness. Thanks