[tinkers01]

Hi good to see all these people helping and seeking help I have been posting on this site for about 2 years now under tinkers I just wanted to say that suboxone is a great thing it has truely saved me and my wife after a long battle with pill addiction i know take 1 mg sub a day thats down from 3 8mg a day it has taken some time to get there but whos in a rush I was on pther pills for many years and I dont expect to get off them over night so to all you people seeking a way out it is there and it work good luck hope every one has a blessed day

[rusty metal]

Originally Posted by imgreyelf

I wrote the below text in a tramadol thread in the "Featured Drugs" area and now see that it is more appropriate for this area in order for me to get the opinions that I'd like to see. Please read on below:

First off, I want to say Ultram/tramadol is definitely addictive. I am in the current process of weaning off of it after 3+ years. Even initially just cutting the dose in half caused bad withdrawals for me. I have a history of multiple spine surgeries and wanted to use tramadol instead of other "pain killers" because it was supposed to be non-addictive. Heh.

Now, let's move on to 3+ years later. I decided I was tired of needing to buy these pills all of the time so that I could function(not catch a "buzz" - but function). I'm now finding out how much pain is still around that the tramadol was able to mask for me. I've also found out that a side effect of the tramadol for me (a good one in my case) was an appetite suppressant. So here comes the tough question. How am I supposed to say that being addicted to tramadol was BAD? With not taking the tramadol at the higher amounts I was, I'm now left with a lot of pain, I'm hardly able to move upright, and I'm gaining weight. While I was taking the higher doses of tramadol, I think I was happier, I was the thinnest I had been since 7th grade (went from size 16-18 to size 8 while taking tramadol), and I was pain-free. On the con side, I guess taking larger amounts of tramadol is likely bad for the liver. It also did cause me to have a hard time falling asleep which necessitated the need for Ambien. I also think tramadol causes short term memory loss.

So, bottom line is, how am I supposed to say that being addicted to tramadol was bad when I felt so much better being pain-free and thin? I know I can't be the only one who feels like this. I know "addiction" is supposed to be bad, but if I'm able to function because of it, I just don't understand the problem with long term medication use. Many of the doctors I've talked to or saw (including a pain specialist) all talked of tapering off of any pain medication, so it was obvious that pain control through use of long term (indefinite) tramadol wasn't even a consideration. Any opinions out there?

How much tramadol are you taking in a 24 hour period?

[diggnrichmond]

ok folks here goes dig

This is day one with no sub. I know I said four weeks but I had to go six.

Whatever it is now TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am feeling a little jittery but im ok. Probably the anxiety.

I am going to post here every day so be watchin for it.

Hope I can still work thru all of this!!!!!!!!!

I love you guys yall are such a positive influence!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dig

[Bobbie45]

Hi everybody...I just found this site and its been very helpful....I have been on pain meds for about 4 years now since I had a hysterectomy. I also have back problems and was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I have been taking about 14 7.5 norcos a day for a while now along with 1 10mg oxycodone during the day and 2 10mg oxycodone at night when I go to bed....it seems like 14 isnt enough anymore....I decided today that I need to get off of them...I just want my old life back! I told my boss at work today my whole story and that I wanted to take a few months leave of absence and she totally understood...I will be taking february and march off...I also told a close friend of mine who had no idea and she said she would be here for me every step of the way...then I came home and told my husband that I want to get off of them...he had know idea how many I was taking, but he was very understanding and said we will get through this together...my friends said they will be here for me through it also...I am sooooo scared! My doctor told me when I am ready that we will do the suboxone....it sounds like it might be easier than I thought....I hate when I wake up in the morning and my body is tingling and jonesing for them pills....I couldnt imagine feeling that everyday along with the other side effects...I have a drs appt on wednesday and I am going to tell him I am done!....I dont wont to ruin the holidays so I am going to do this in february....Im going to be honest with my doctor and tell him that the 12 a day that he precribes me isnt enough (I usually have extras because i see the doctor a few days earlier every month)...I hate that I have to count my pills after 2 weeks to make sure I have enough to get me through till I see the doctor next...I see my doctor monthly for my refills.....I just fill like its a vicious cycle...every 6 months or so I have to tell him they dont seem to be working as good anymore....I dont want to be on 20-40 pills a month.....I couldnt imagine...I feel for everybody on this site that have this addiciton problem and I hope and pray that you all get the help and support that you need! If anybody wants to leave me suggestions or ask me anything, please do....I would love to hear from anybody that knows what I am going through! Thank you for listening to my story....Bobbie

[mpvt]

If you're not going to start the detox until feb then you shouldn't say anything to your doctor until then.He/she may decide to just stop your meds now.Make sure you find a suboxone prescribing doctor as you need a special licience to prescribe buprenorphene.Here is the web site suboxone.com . You'll find a doctor locator there.Get a list of prescribing doctors in your area and start calling for an appointment. Good luck,.......Dave

[tinkers01]

I know where you are coming from I was scared too I think that every one is you get use to doing the same thing and it is insanity I don't see why you want to wait to Feb. You see you have a problem then the time is now you said you wont to go on Sub well I can tell you that if you go on Sub you will feel little or no w/d I was taking about what you are if not more me and my wife both when we went on Sub she felt great within 1 HR and so did I BUT I got a very bad head ach and pucked a few times the first night but after that it has all been roses and thats the Gods honest truth so if you can get on Sub now you will be great for the holidays what better present to give yourself and your family than a new you well hope you the best I know you can do it.
ROB

[Bobbie45]

Thank you so much for responding to my thread....I already have a pain dr that does prescribe the suboxone....im seeing my internest tomorrow so we will see what he suggests....usually things that have side effects, it never fails i get them...so, im thinking my doctor will probably still prescribe me enough for another month then mid january I will probably start the suboxone...Im starting to feel a little better about the outcome because of the stories I am reading about suboxone....I know I am READY because once I get other people involved, I wont give up....I know all these friends of mine and my husband will help me through this....I have a great life! 3 wonderful boys, 26, 22 and 14 and a husband I have been with for 18 years....I have a part time job at a local gym where I have met so many wonderful people....I was afraid that I was going to lose my job but thankgod my boss was so understanding....Im like them other moms out there that feel like Super Mom when they are on this stuff...it makes me happy and im staying at a great weight....Does the suboxone make you gain weight? Even if it does, its not going to stop me! I really am ready!! Im scared, and I cry all the time because Im afraid of what these next few months are going to be like, but I know with the support and the help of suboxone, its probably going to be easier than what Im preparing myself for. Thank you all again for your feedback...please keep them coming....I need it! God bless and good luck to all of you! Bobbie

[diggnrichmond]

Im on day three now the half life of the last dose I took should be coming out of me now.

Leg pain is similar to that of oxycodone withdrawl but no way near as severe some shaking but the medication called requip that my doc prescribed is doing wonders for that.

I have been able to sleep every night. Night two I woke up in the middle of the night and had some trouble getting back to sleep. Doc was suggesting ambein for sleep. I dont need it yet

I have some anxiety when I began to feel bad basically scared that I will get that feeling like oxycodone withdrawls, I will never forget those they were horrible. Doctor suggest xanax for those but I am weiry of that because I have seen people get hooked on those things too.

Also when I reminisce about how good I felt on opiates I get depressed but I realize whats going on and that part I can fight. The mental I can handle the physical scares me to death.

Well thats where I am at right now and so far I will say that it is nowhere as bad as I thought it would be.

If I can do it I know others can too!!!

God bless all of you

Dig

[diggnrichmond]

I can say that suboxone may cause some weight gain. But you can control that by staying active and eating right. Dont let that fact keep you from your goals of getting clean. Weight can be controlled but opiate withdrawls are out of your control and can ruin your life.

Good luck and keep diggin

Dig

[tinkers01]

Hi gland to read your story, can you tell me what dose of sub were you on when you stopped I have lowered my dose to 1mg and I too have some leg discomfort at night only and no wear the leval it was at with pain pills.

[chrish1]

Sub can be a good thing if used in conjunction with a program of recovery. It can be used to get away from the time consuming activities of getting and finding ways and means to get pills. However, I strongly suggest some kind of program in conjunction since there are underlying reasons why we use in the first place. If we don't get to those underlying reasons and change from the inside, the chance of relapse within the first 5 years is almost 100 percent. I sponser people in the NA program, and I see it all the time. I see people get away from pills, heroin, and morphine by using suboxone, but if they don't work a program of recovery, they pretty much always relapse in my experience. I'm not saying sub is a bad thing - I'm just saying make sure you get to the reasons why you were using in the first place. The disease of addiction is progressive, incurable, and fatal if not treated properly. The important thing to realize is that the drugs are just a symptom of the disease. It is a disease of thinking, a disease of emotions, and a disease of spirituality (not talking about religion). These are the things that need to be addressed.

What is a program of recovery? It can be whatever you want it to be, as long as it is something that works for you personally. It can be NA, PA, AA, outpatient, inpatient, religion, psychology, exercise, prayer, meditation... etc.... preferable a combination of many different things. DO WHAT WORKS FOR YOU AND MAKES YOU FEEL BETTER ON THE INSIDE is the point.

If you want to try NA meetings, I have a link below.

Chrish

[mpvt]

I agree with Chris.Buprenorphene and methadone are exellent drugs to help addicts in recovery but you need a support system too.Also you need to inform yourself on why we get addicted and so forth.Arm yourself with as much information that you can so you can make smart decisions....Have a good day......Dave

[FamilyGuy11]

Hi All,

I'm suffering through the withdrawal phase. I don't know if some of the earlier posting people are on here (Stace) for instance, but you guys have offered some wonderful advice.

However, what I couldn't see are if there are any non-drug cures or something to help ease the withdrawal symptoms? I had been taking (1 - 2) Oxycontin 20mg per day and about (8) 5/325 oxycodone (Percoset). I've been taking these meds for about 3 weeks, but was taking (5) 5/325 vicodin for about 9 months at a rate of about (6 - 8) per day.

The withdrawal symptoms I'm feeling are aches, muscle, joints, stiffness, feverish, and restlessness. I can't sleep because everytime I start to doze off I wake myself up. I'm all about doing whatever I can to get back to normal and I don't want to turn to the internet to keep my problem going. I'm still hurting a little from my shoulder surgery I had 3 weeks ago, but I don't want to ask for any more pills because I'm afraid that I might become addicted.

If anyone can help out, I'd appreciate it.

Thanks!

EQ

[diggnrichmond]

Im still alive and that is all I can bring myself to say!!!!

[diggnrichmond]

Originally Posted by tinkers01

Hi gland to read your story, can you tell me what dose of sub were you on when you stopped I have lowered my dose to 1mg and I too have some leg discomfort at night only and no wear the leval it was at with pain pills.

I was at two.

[waismann]

We can detox patients from painkillers in 4 days. The Waismann Method of detoxification Under Anesthesia utilizes the most advanced medical techniques available for opiate dependency. Patients are treated with the highest level of professionalism, dignity and respect. Safety should be your greatest concern when evaluating detoxification treatment. Patients receive 24-hour monitoring and observation from admission to discharge, all with a fully accredited medical-surgical hospital We are located in Orange County, So. California; where we receive patients from all over the world weekly.
Day 1

The procedure takes place in a full service accredited hospital to provide the close monitoring and access to additional medical services or specialists. Patients are admitted the day before the procedure for a complete medical evaluation including history, physical exam, and blood work to evaluate kidney and liver function. Patients also have a Chest X-Ray and an electrocardiogram, and may undergo an exercise stress test if indicated. Patients receive brain chemistry analysis in order to assess chemical balance and reduce craving that will lower risk of relapse..

Medications are given to prevent or relieve the symptoms of withdrawal, and during this day patients also receive an intravenous infusion to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Additional medications are used to lower the acid content of the stomach and also to blunt the adrenalin or adrenergic response to withdrawal.
It is imperative that patients spend 24-48 hours in-patient so pre-medication can be properly administered to stabilize body functions which help to achieve a smooth and safe procedure.


Day 2

Patients are transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) to provide close monitoring. Once patients are appropriately sedated and pre-medicated, they are put under anesthesia for 60-90 minutes, and an acute withdrawal is precipitated with medications to block the opiate receptors in the brain while the patient sleeps comfortably. This medically induced withdrawal is controlled and closely monitored by either Dr. Bernstein or Dr. Lowenstein, both Board Certified anesthesiologists who are nationally recognized for their expertise in the use of the Waismann Method. During the anesthesia, patients feel no discomfort, and have no memory of the acute withdrawal once they awaken. After they are awakened from anesthesia, they are closely monitored by one on one nursing staff for the rest of the day and night. Most patients feel groggy and experience some mild discomfort after detoxification. Our medical staff is specially trained to ensure patient comfort and safety before and after the detoxification procedure. Upon awakening, the patient is no longer physically dependent on opiates and has no conscious awareness of experiencing the withdrawal process during the procedure.


Day 3

Patients are transferred from the ICU back to the medical floor where they continue to recover from the withdrawal procedure, receive intravenous fluids and regain their strength. Patients are encouraged to get out of bed and walk and to resume eating regularly. Physicians assess the patient’s readiness for discharge. About 65% of patients are ready for discharge by the afternoon of Day 3, either to Domus, an aftercare facility, or to their home with a family member.


Day 4

Is for patients who require additional medical care, which have underlying pain issues or other medical conditions that may require a longer supervised recovery The Waismann Method protocol is designed based on each patients individual medical and dependency history. The pre evaluation and assessment are imperative to the success of the procedure. We will not discharge patients until they are medically stable and able to leave the hospital.

We are proud to offer our patients the best medicine has to offer for opiate dependency. The major difference between the Waismann Method and other medical detoxifications is the safety, comfort and success of our patients.

Every patient has a different medical and dependency history, and we treat them as individuals with specific needs. Our doctors will not treat a patient with out at least 24 hours of observation, pre-medication, and pre-examination. Pharmaceuticals are the main tool used to achieve the desired result; we need to understand how each patient react to medications, so we can use the appropriate ones to safely achieve our goals of detoxification.

Different doctors in the US have tried this procedure in surgery centers or even offices in order to save on costs. Consequently safety standards are saved as well, compromising results and well being of patients.

The Waismann Method includes a 6 week follow up with a therapist that can be done in person or by phone. Is a great way to help the patients deal with life on life's terms and to have support going back to life without the narcotics.

The cost for the Waismann Method of detoxification is $15,800 In this cost is included 4 days total .

The other option is combining the detoxification with Domus Retreat for a 2 week total treatment program. The cost is $25,800; with this option the doctor and therapist will be able to follow the patient closely through the transition.
We have a 1 month program for $36,800 it is an absolutely beautiful place where one receives psychological care and physical strength.



What Domus Offers:

At intake an assessment is made about the needs of each guest. Once this has taken place the recovery and treatment process can begin. The programs consist of various types of therapy, wellness activities and spiritual relaxation. Custom Care is unique because each person is allowed to design a treatment program that best fits his/her needs. Our specialists work with each guest to continually reassess specific issues, needs and desires that may come up during the recovery process. We believe that this customized care option provides the most flexibility and comfort during early recovery.
Confidentiality:
Gourmet food prepared by a Culinary Chef for specific dietary needs Gated Estate with over 7400 square feet of living space Private suites (top grade mattress, 600-thread linen, goose down pillows) with private bathrooms Robes, toiletries and essential needs will be provided Private verandas Peace and Serenity atmosphere Wireless internet Plasma Televisions/DVD/Stereo in every suite Elegant and cozy fireplaces Electropedic adjustable beds with massage controls (in specific rooms) Waterfall Jacuzzi and designer swimming pool Billiard Room Entertainment Room with a library of last released movies Access to off-site fitness club Housekeeping Staffing 24/7 The Domus Difference:
We created an environment that deal with dependencies of all kinds, anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and personal crisis in a best-practice manner. We firmly believe that your treatment should be based on proven practices but in an environment filled with dignity, respect, and optimism.
Unique in its approach, Domus retreat focuses on your individual core issues which often serve to maintain your cycle of addiction. Healing of core issues occurs through multiple intensive psychotherapy sessions per week with highly credentialed professionals. In addition to looking at core issues, your individualized treatment will address unhealthy repetitions and thinking patterns which, in the past, have resulted in self-destruction and relapse. . Group work occurs in small, effective and private settings. These treatment elements are uniquely blended, along with spa elements to affect significant and lasting change, putting you on the path of sustained recovery!

Our program is confidential, anonymous and ultra-private -- there is a maximum of only 6 guests at any one time. All services are private and one-on-one with small, peer group sessions optional...
Domus is designed where patients have different areas to individually relax.
All programs are designed for to achieve best result with each individual. a powerful multi-dimensional program, individually designed for each guest client incorporating coaching, education, chemical dependency & recovery management coaching, stress management and relaxation training along with a highly team of pain management professionals.
Patients are welcome to bring their lap tops and work in the privacy of their suites.
We are a spa experience featuring the expertise of highly trained therapists and practitioners to make the ideal mind-body healing experience complete. Like the rest of the Domus Program, the treatments are highly personalized for the specific needs of each guest client. There is an extensive palette of treatments and services from which to choose to enhance your experience.
WHAT WE OFFER IN OUR DOMUS PERSONAL TRANSITIONAL PROGRAM:
3 times a week Professional massages included in your Domus PTP Heated Pool and waterfall Jacuzzi Gourmet meals designed to fit your dietary needs Full housekeeping/laundry/linen service On-site exercise equipment and off site gym available
3 times a week individual Psychotherapy Anger and Stress Management/Relaxation Training - individual, targeted sessions Yoga/Tai Chi/Meditation - in-house small group and private sessions Medication Management (if applicable) Doctor and or P.A availability for pain management patients Off-site group activities
24/7 patient assistance staff in house
Please call or email me with any additional questions you might have. I am available for you...


Clare W. Kavin
Office 310-2050808
After hours and weekends 310-9277155

[erirang]

hello i need help for accident i some one give morphine and now i need more do some one know how can i get it

[ComingHome]

"Mean old levee taught me to weep and moan,
Lord, mean old levee taught me to weep and moan,
Got what it takes to make a mountain man leave his home..."

[LISA GIRL]

Happy Holidays from a member from long ago... not so long ago..yet seems like an eternity...I was sitting at my computer wondering how I just stopped visiting a place that helped me thru so much a little over a year ago.. Glad to see there are some familiar faces...ChrisH, Tinkers..probably more... I just scanned a few posts.. Love all you guys!

Update...Still on the suboxone...1 mg per day. The cravings really disappeared but not til after about 10 mos or so. I slipped once, took one percocet and of course it had no effect...as long as you take that little orange pill every morning you are "safe." It really has been a Godsend.

I did however hurt my back recently. A night in the E.R. in excruciating pain. There was nothing that could be done to ease the pain due to the suboxone. The pain is now (relatively) manageable but I have nerve issues/loss of sensation in my left leg. Doc is recommending surgery which would mean back to the painkillers. I meet with the surgeon next week and really am going to try everything in my power to have surgery be a last resort.

Anyway, I guess that's what got me thinking about this forum. I want to say again a big THANK YOU to all who were here during my transition from a life obsessed with pk...the $$ and the energy devoted to my next purchase. I don't think I could have done it without sub due to my prior intense mental cravings, but I do hate being somewhat enslaved to the baby asprin

To the person above (sorry I can't see the prior threads as I type) who asked about WEIGHT GAIN on sub.... I was very concerned about the same. I didn't gain any weight...not anything noticeable anyway.. I was a bit bloated in the feet at the beginning but I think that had more to do with the ambien I was taking, as I have stopped the ambien and the fat feet went away around the same time.

Anyway, I will come back and read some posts.. So glad to see familiar faces. I love you all and hope you are well. Wishing you newbies and seasoned friends the best life you can live for 2008.

Lisa Girl

[LISA GIRL]

Wow! Just looked back a page ... Dave, Patmamma, Coming Home~ Great to see you are all here... sorry if I'm forgetting anybody.. I just briefly peaked around...I will have to spend some time catching up. I had the hardest time logging on and navigating around when they changed the forum some about a year ago I guess I just gave up. Seems like they have streamlined the old and "new" posts in this thread. Love it!

[boricualoca]

This is what happened since my last posting. I called a family meeting with all 8 of my children. They listened quietly to my confession. I thought they would be there to help me, but they all told me they are disappointed and embarrassed of me They want nothing to do with me and I am not allowed to even contact my grandchildren. I've been crying alot! My christmas was very empty and lonely. I have continued taking the percs and am now in total depression.

Thanks for your comments and cominghome, I'm going to try and attend one of those na meetings. (Thanks!)

Question: If I make an appointment with a dr who prescribes suboxone, how long will the first visit be and will I be able to go to work? If not, how long do I have to be out of work?

I appreciate your responses. You all understand the pain and terrible journey this withdrawal is. You are all like one family...encouraging, listening and cheering one another on.

Thank you and God Bless Us All!!!

[boricualoca]

Originally Posted by boricualoca

This is what happened since my last posting. I called a family meeting with all 8 of my children. They listened quietly to my confession. I thought they would be there to help me, but they all told me they are disappointed and embarrassed of me They want nothing to do with me and I am not allowed to even contact my grandchildren. I've been crying alot! My christmas was very empty and lonely. I have continued taking the percs and am now in total depression.

Thanks for your comments and cominghome, I'm going to try and attend one of those na meetings. (Thanks!)

Question: If I make an appointment with a dr who prescribes suboxone, how long will the first visit be and will I be able to go to work? If not, how long do I have to be out of work?

I appreciate your responses. You all understand the pain and terrible journey this withdrawal is. You are all like one family...encouraging, listening and cheering one another on.

Thank you and God Bless Us All!!!

Good evening everyone. I'm wishing everyone a safe and happy new year!!!! LET 2008 BRING US SOBRIETY FROM DRUGS AND ALCOHOL!!! One day at a time...one day at a time. I wish I was with my family right now. ANYWAY, HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!! I've just taken 2 percocets after being without all day long.

[expopper]

Hey everyone, I havent posted for a few months-Im 18 years old, and I was taking 300 or so mgs of oxy a day. I went to rehab and stayed there (eventually working for the last month) for 91 days. Tomorrow is day 100 and my life is so much better! The cravings have finally gone away, and I am left with a mild depression. For those who are struggling right now, keep your head up cuz it will get much better and life w/o pills is so much happier.

Btw: From what ive heard the rapid detox thing posted on this page doesnt really work, and ends up killing many addicts, it sounds too good to be true cuz it really is.

[lilbri]

expopper what rapid detox are you talking about and what rehab did you do for 90 days can you tell me about it

[boricualoca]

Originally Posted by expopper

Hey everyone, I havent posted for a few months-Im 18 years old, and I was taking 300 or so mgs of oxy a day. I went to rehab and stayed there (eventually working for the last month) for 91 days. Tomorrow is day 100 and my life is so much better! The cravings have finally gone away, and I am left with a mild depression. For those who are struggling right now, keep your head up cuz it will get much better and life w/o pills is so much happier.

Btw: From what ive heard the rapid detox thing posted on this page doesnt really work, and ends up killing many addicts, it sounds too good to be true cuz it really is.

Congrats expopper!!!! I am going through the withdrawals today. Last time I took percs was yesterday. I went to work and experienced a bit of rage, but the feeling of having to move my arms is horrible. I can't seem to concentrate.

Anyway...congratulations again!!!!

PS- you are so young. how did you start using? my eldest grandchildren are in your age range.

[whispering_insanityx0x]

Now I know this may sound ridiculous to all of you... but oh well. I have suffered from depression, some of it is caused from my thyroid disease, and then again a lot of it's not. Well I have gotten down at times and just overall felt ********************ty, and what I mean by ********************ty is just pretty much nervousness and this really down depressing feeling. I have suffered from really bad anxiety my whole life, since I was probably like 8, I even left school becauce I couldn't deal with it anymore. I have a very low self esteem, which is pretty much what causes my depression. I've gotten really distant from my mom and friends, I use to be close to all of them... I've just kind of lost myself though. It seems like more and more over time my depression shifts and changes, lately I've felt really numb, can't cry, don't have much feeling... but then I'll have spurts where I'll cry for hours and hours and can't stop, and get sensitive over every little thing. I've also have spurts where I just feel like my nerves are wacked. Well there have been times I've let it get the best of me and popped my mom's pain killers... I've never had any strong effects from them. One time I got upset and took 3 hydrocodone and 4 generic darvocet, nothing much really happened, I just got really tired and relaxed... then later that night I ended up having rapid heart beat, nervousness, and paranoia thats about it. My boyfriend really freaked me out though... he got pretty ticked when I told him what I did, which I don't blame him for. But he was telling me that I could damage my liver or kill myself by doing that ********************. I haven't done anything to that degree since... but every once in a while when I want to feel relaxed I'll take a few of her darvocet, they really don't have a big effect on me though like I said... just make me feel kinda sleepy and relaxed. I have hypothyroidism so I take a replacement hormone for that, so I don't really know if it could effect that or not? Tonight I took a couple darvocet, I just feel sleepy... I probably shouldn't have taken 2 though. I haven't had withdrawal problems, I haven't taken them often enough for that, and I don't plan on it. I only take them maybe 1-2 times a week. Well anyways... just figured I'd throw that out there. You can give me advice I guess. I'd like to know if taking this stuff will effect me in the long run or if it's that big of a deal...

[Kaidog]

Wow. I thought this day would never come. 1 Year clean!

Over the past year I have been tested in just about every way imaginable. On the physical side I have blown-out a disc between L-1 and L-2 which has left me barely able to walk. When it is bad, I can only shuffle my feet along the floor and at other times, when it is not so bad, the pain is managable. Still, nothing stronger than an aspirin........................ even though the Dr's have offered me just about everything under the sun for pain relief.

On the other front, the emotional "feel-good" side of the addiction animal, I have watched as breast cancer has very nearly claimed my wife this year. If any of you reading this are old timers, you remember how highly I regard my wife and just what she means to me. It has been excruciatingly difficult to watch her go through this and there has been more than one occassion when I really wanted to re-kindle my contacts for the Norco's. I have resisted and today I can stand before you all and celebrate 1 year of being clean.

This site was so instrumental in my early months of recovery and I am so indebted to so many of you who offered encouragement during those ugly withdrawal days, weeks and months.

Lastly for any who are just sticking their toe in the water and only begining on the path to a clean, drug-free life, I didn't do it on my first try. It wasn't on the 2nd or 3rd, 4th or even the 5th try. It was my 6th attempt that got me this far. That is precisely the reason that I have refused any pain killers during this really tough season of my life. I remember how terribly I was addicted and what a strangle hold they had on every aspect of my life. Hopefully, this back thing will get better soon.

Thank you everyone who keeps this site going................................ all who post here and all who fight the good fight.

1 Year and Counting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[sick0fitall]

Hi,
I'm sure none of you really remember me as I only posted a few times 6 or 7 months back. I just wanted to come back and let everyone know that suboxone really does work, I've been on it for 6 months and I started at 16mg a day and I am now at 1mg a day, I'll be going down to .5mg a day and then .5mg every other day before I quit. I'm sure the withdrawls will be noticable no matter what dose I'm on before I stop it but the one thing suboxone does is it shows you what it's like to have a normal life again.

I remember when I would try to quit taking oxy's cold turkey, I kept failing because I didn't know what I would get out of it, I didn't think I could ever feel normal again, but I was wrong.

I think hitting rock bottom is the best thing that can happen to an addict (it was for me anyways), I dropped out of school, got fired from my job, started selling cocaine to fund my pill habbit, and it makes me sick to my stomach to think about living another day like that again. After getting on Suboxone I went back to school and got an internship at an aerospace engineering firm which has offered me a full time position when I graduate in a few semesters. I never would have been able to do this without suboxone.

Also, if you are looking for a doctor that prescribes it, make sure you call EVERY doctor within driving distance of your area, as their prices vary significantly. Some doctors I was calling wanted an up front fee of 3000$ dollars, some 300 a visit etc.. I finally found one that charged 300 for the first time visit and 150 for each visit after that (once a month). The pills are expensive, yes... and that's why its a good idea to cut your dose down quickly at first (if it is possible for you). I've cut my dose down every month and I found that its harder to reduce the number of times you take it per day than it is to decrease your dosage.

So while suboxone isn't perfect (which i'm going to find out how imperfect it is in 2 months when I quit), it does give you a chance to see what it feels like to be sober.. and I had forgotten how good that can feel. I'll come back and let you know how I do when I finally get off the sub, but I don't think it's going to be a problem for me because I guess I'm one of the few who doesn't crave the killers anymore.. I think its because I associate them with ruining my life as opposed to something that made me feel good. I can't say that if someone puts one in front of my face I wouldn't be tempted, but I haven't come across that situation again and I hope that I do not have to.

Just know that you have options, and this one works .. your doctor will let you stay on sub as long as you want, and the longer you stay on it the more time it will have been since you have taken a killer. I wish you all luck and hopefully i'll be able to come back here and tell you that I'm clean of the sub.

[sick0fitall]

Dig, I'm really curious to see how you handled the Sub withdrawl, and how long (and strong) were the effects? Also, how long were you on them?

[boricualoca]

Sick, how long did your first doctor's visit last?