iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Approximately 5% of iGuard patients report drowsiness or fatigue while taking Vicodin. Vicodin is a very strong analgesic containing hydrocodone and drowsy effects are very common. You should discuss your concerns with your doctor. Vicodin also is available in a smaller dose of 2.5 / 500 mg which may be an option that causes less drowsiness or hangover feeling for you. If your symptoms are too severe you should discuss another pain agent that may control your pain but with less "hangover' effect.

Posted: 2009-07-09 14:47:41

Answer/Reply:

I do not feel drowsy, I just feel like crap. I have discussed this with my doctor and breaking the tabs in half was his suggestion and it helps reduce the hangover effect. The vicodin is for the really BAD days and luckily there have few of them

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-17 23:55:10

Answer/Reply:

I take vic for fibromyalgia and spine problems. I am in severe pain daily, I do feel groggy after taking it, but the benefits most often outweigh the groggies. I could not go thru a day without it. I realize my quality of life is not what it use to be. Would love to get my life back, but unless there is a new drug that would alleviate the pain and not cause drowsiness, I am stuck.
58 year old female

59 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-15 14:37:37

Answer/Reply:

I agree completely. My quality of life would be much worse without the norco, but it doesn't improve it much when the drowsiness sets in. I am a mother of two young children and my moods seem to swing when the pain meds wear off and havent taken another one yet. I hate my quality of life and would love to see a pain med without the groggy side effects. I also suffer from extreme hot/cold swings based on when med is in my system at first and when it wears down. I also suffer from spine injury,failed back syndrome, failed fusion, and just added stimulator that does nothing.

39 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-24 12:23:22

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

This product contains hydrocodone and acetaminophen. The most common side effects of this medication are stomach upset, constipation drowsiness, and overall fatigue. Some iGuard members report memory/speech problems, insomnia, mental haziness and mood/behavior changes. Since this is a medication with significant strength, side effects can increase in intensity with higher doses. Your husband should consult his doctor if the side effects are severe. You may also want to review your husband's medication list with his doctor or pharmacist to make sure these side effects are not caused by any of his other medications.

Posted: 2009-06-08 00:20:49

Answer/Reply:

I have been on Lortab for almost 5 years. First I had severe head aches due to a brain tumor. And with in the same week that the head aches went away I hurt my back. I have had one surgery and I'm getting ready for another. The worse part of all of this is the addiction you receive from the Lortab.. I can't feel them mentally when I take them, but my body craves them. My bones start aching, my stomach get's sick and I'm mean.They help with the pain very little. If I take them as prescribed, but I hurt to bad. So in the morning when the pain is the worse I'll take 2 and then 2 mor with-in the next hour- 2 hours. They are prescribed 2 every 4-6 hours. And they do change a persons personality. I hate them. I am in the process of trying to slowly get off of them. One pill less each two months. And it's not easy. It makes you feel so hopeless sometimes. Any doctor that gives them to their patient for long term use, just doesn't care about you.

54 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-15 21:19:36

Answer/Reply:

Wow, I am so sorry that you have had these problems with taking Lortab. You didn't put what strength you were on but with a brain tumor I would guess a heavy dosage. I have been using vicodin 10/325 for 7.5 years after having both legs broken, one crushed, by a car and house. I haven't had the same issues that you described. I, obviously know that I am addicted physically to the pills, having been on them for so long but don't experience the cravings and such that you describe. My neurologist has watched over my usage quite carefully over the years and I have been able to fluctuate but keep my usage to 3 - 4 pills a day. Of course I've just had a hysterectomy and this long term usage does build up great tolerance and the percocet they gave me that I'm told is much stronger doesn't even touch the pain from my surgery. A downfall to long term painkiller usage.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-16 15:15:10

Answer/Reply:

Yes, when the dosage begins to wear off, you become very easily irritated and just the least thing agitates you. I actually find myself hating noise!!! I can get extremely ill at my husband and kids, especially at night. I'm not sure why, but I can discern that thats whats causing it. I have been taking them for about 12 years.

57 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-01 11:14:04

Answer/Reply:

I have severe back pain tried the injections they did not work, Lorcet has helped the pain I do take but only when I need to which it says 4xs a day,but I only take it as I need it.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-03 10:40:39

Answer/Reply:

I feel your pain, Literally!!!..I'm in recovery from having 5 (yes 5) bulging discs in my lower back. I tried the shots (actually was going every week for injections). They helped for a few days then the severe pain would return.I was on every pain medication possible, but they only fixed the pain not the problem. Then I tried a chiropractor and my life has been changed!! I started off seeing him 3x's a week. When I first entered his off I had to use a walker, I could not sit, stand or lay for more then 5 minutes without being is PAIN....Now, 3 months later, I still see the chiropractor once a week, but i FINALLY have my life back...Please take it from someone who has been there, try a chiropractor!!! They don't cover the pain (like meds do), they actually fix the pain. Believe it or not, i'm only 35 and was scared i'd never walk again! Its a long process, but its worth it and so are you. Best of Luck to you!!!

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-11 07:07:39

Answer/Reply:

I have only one disentigrating disc in the lumbar 4 & 5 area as well as having arthritis attach it now. I take Lortab 10/500 and it does help first thing in the mornings. I know the pain I have with just one disc problem, I will truly pray for your 5.

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-31 11:18:44

Answer/Reply:

Everyone is different but tollerance to pain meds can happen. I've been diagnosed with chronic pain syndrome since I was about 30. I went through most of the pain pills till I was at the point of taking 5 or 6 oxycontin a day. I quit taking pain meds for about a year at that point and the tolerance went away. However, I had to go back on pain meds because my brain became overloaded from coping with the pain. I basically went into a major depressive episode. So yes, tolerance is possible, but, everyone will be different as to rate and amount of tolerance. I strongly recommend talking with your doctor before quiting for any period or trying to change or increase meds.

42 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-31 17:23:50

Answer/Reply:

hello my name is shelby from ms. i know about pain ask your doctor to give you soma 350 it wrongs well with lortabs,as for your age please only take 1 and only 1 3times a day it helps me cope better with any pain and helps the lortabs a better pain relief.they just work good.

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-05 20:03:04

Answer/Reply:

I have taken 10/500 for 8 years and became immune several times. Unfortunately, it can happen. Knowing how addictive this and stronger meds can be, when they stop working for me, I stop taking them and just get extra rest, bighting the bullett for a couple of days. When I take it again, it works to help the pain. I also take Soma with mine. I take the soma at bedtime every night to ease morning stiffness and aid sleep.

My Dr. would have changed me to percocet, the next step up, but I prefer to take as little as I have to in hopes that I can still get pain relief in my later years. This is my personal choice from seeing addicts' behaviour. I hope to prevent this in my life (although it has disrupted my life badly through loved ones). I also avoid "taking extra", having seen that more is not better. Handle with care. Too much not only can be fatal, it can turn an intelligant person into a blubbering, annoying, person people try to avoid instead of telling them the uncomfortable truth.

I hope my experiance is helpful to you or anyone reading this, to prevent the fall of a family as mine has suffered. Now disabled myself and alone, I take my meds with extreme caution. I must try to keep my mentality in condition, although my physical body has worn out too early in life. My children are very helpful, keeping my lawn mowed since my hips and spine are fuzing together with a rare arthritis. I can't let them down, either, since I am the only sober parent/grandparent left in the family.

I hope you consider the medication break and find it helpful. We don't know how long God will require us to be here in these bodies, so we need to try to take the minimum meds mandatory to get relief for future help. Good luck and good health to you.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-22 01:41:53

Answer/Reply:

Hi, Dan. I too suffer from chronic back pain and sciatica. I got extremely tired of taking pain medication that didn't work for the sciatica, let alone the cost and potential side effects. I was online one day and came across a site for all-natural Wellness Oils. I'd received a sample of the "back soothe" oil, which I am now a lifetime fan of, so decided to check out the website to see what else they had that I might find useful. I found one for sciatica called "sciatic soothe", and this oil works extremely well for me! I know how painful sciatica can be, and at times just aggravating and uncomfortable. I decided to order the sciatic soothe wellness oil and try it. It works amazingly well...even better than pain meds! My mother was in a car accident a couple of years ago which damaged some of her nerves, and she suffers with the sciatica as well. She now uses this oil every time her sciatica flares up, no more pain!. Neither of us longer have to "suffer" with sciatica. We just apply a small amount of oil as directed and the pain stops IMMEDIATELY! I just thought I'd share this with you in case you'd like to try it also. I'm not selling anything, so don't worry about that, just trying to help others relieve their pain! If you'd like to check out the site I went to, here is the link:

http://www.naturesinventory.com/?Click=32142

It's very reasonably priced, it's normally $15.95/bottle, but I just checked and it's on sale now for $14.36. That might sound a little pricey for a bottle of oil, but it's not, as the bottle lasts a long time...I've had the same bottle for just over 6 months now, and still have some left. You only need to use a small amount, and to me, I'd much rather pay $15 for something that will stop the pain immediately and last 6 months or more, than to have to take costly pain medication that doesn't always work, and has side effects. I also use the back soothe oil on a daily basis for the arthritis in my spine. I rub a little on my spine and the burning, pain and throbbing stops immediately, and it helps me sleep a lot better, which is another reason I don't care for all the pain meds, some will keep me awake, and some will knock me out, making it hard for me to function normally during the day. Also, if you decide to check it out and want to try it, you can use my discount code I received (anyone can use this code!), which is FREESHIP, that'll save you the $5 shipping, but they do ship the 1st business day that you order (if it's early enough during the day, or it goes out the next day), but they ship it priority mail, so I get mine shipped to my door in 2 days! I have been trying to share this site I found with everyone I meet or know because it has saved me a great amount of pain and suffering, and there's NO side effects at all, so I can be pain-free while at work during the day (and throughout the night) and not have to worry about getting sick or falling asleep! I'm sure my employer enjoys that too. HAHA I'm sorry I didn't answer your question about the percoceet without ibuprofen, I'm not sure if they have it and/or what it's called, but thought I'd share this information with you. Good luck to you!

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-16 18:12:45

Answer/Reply:

It's called oxcodone. It usually comes in 10 mg pills and it is the drug that is in percocet without the ibuprofen. Hope that helps you.

34 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-17 15:39:36

Answer/Reply:

Dan, I think you might be thinking of Percodan. I take Darvon 65mg and sometimes add Tylenol with it depending on the pain. I have RA and FMS. This way I can limit the amount of Tylenol I use. It's an option.

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-23 21:08:11

Answer/Reply:

TAKE 2 SOMAS AND YOUR WORLD WOULD BE A RAINBOW WITH BUDDYRABBITS ,PINK CLOUDS,,,,,WITH THE PER

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-06 21:53:59

Answer/Reply:

Actually, the ibuprofen is bad for the stomach -- it's Tylenol that's bad for the liver. But in answer to your question, yes, there are Narcotic forms of pain relievers without ibuprofen and tylenol (i.e., Oxi, Methodone, etc.). These can be addicting so make sure you follow your provider's instructions. I've been taking Norco for many years, but only use it now for taking the edge off of my pain (2 in the morning and 2 at night) -- NOTHING touches my bone pain, and I'm going on over 20 years with this. I refuse to go on Oxi ro anything like that...I just use ice-packs and heating pads to help cope. But, you have to do what you have to do -- only you know what works with you. Hope you feel better soon.

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-17 15:24:20

Answer/Reply:

I'm not sure where you live, but I also have had back surgery (lumbardisectomy) in October 2007. I still suffer from severe arthritis and spurs in my spine, but I've also had the injections. I found an incredible pain management doctor in St. Peters, Missouri. He does the injections in his office, and you lay on the "bed" under an x-ray machine, so he can see EXACTLY where the needle is going. I'd previously had numerous injections of the same type in AZ, but not one of them was done under an x-ray, which my current physician says can be extremely dangerous. If they can't see where the needle is going, they don't know what could be obstructing the path, such as scar tissue, or a disk or anything else that might be "out of place". Thankfully, I never had any ill effects from my previous injections, but after seeing this doctor, I will NEVER have them done again unless it's under an x-ray machine. The injections themselves only take a couple of minutes, and although they are very painful at the time they're giving them, it has helped my pain a tremendous amount! Good luck to you, and in case you'd like to know, my pain doc is Dr. J. Al Vellinga and he's at Physician's Pain Clinic in St. Peters, MO. His phone number is (636) 936-0400, and he accepts all major insurance plans, as this is (as most treatments are these days!) a very costly procedure. Good luck to you! Bren

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-16 17:55:35

Answer/Reply:

I have also had two back surgeries and have gone thru the injections and they never worked for me. They did hit something in my back the last time they did it and it just about killed me. the pain was awful. So I'll never have another one or another surgery. they don't seem to help.I am also on Vicodin 5/500 and hsave been for years and it's getting to where it doesn't help anymore and if you ask them to increase or change it to something else they call you a drug addict. What are people suppose to do?

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-17 16:22:56

Answer/Reply:

There is a difference between ADDICITION and DEPENDENCE.Addicition is when someone, often who uses a mind-altering substance for "fun", taking more and more to achieve a certain effect. Addicts usually are not prescribed pills they take, or other illegal substances.
Being DEPENDENT on a drug is due to an ailment too painful to live with and lead a normal life; therefore, that PATIENT is prescribed a pain-reliver & takes it as prescribed. IF the pain is worse (which often is the case, expecially if the "injury"- or wharever - is known to get pogressively worse), then the MD should upgrade either the doseage and/or the strength.
In a perfect world, there would be no pain - but that is not reality. If you have an MD who sees it this way - find another. Also, Psychologists (PhD's) are more prone to understading this, so see one if "Doctor Shopping" is too hard (also expensive).
My brother, a Psych/Neurologist takes 10-80 mg. oxycodone daily - he doesn't believe one should live their life in pain. Naturally, he monitors closely the date/s of refills for his patients, and if he finds them being filled too soon, will call the patient in and ask why? If there is a bonafide reason for the pain, he will work with the patient. If not - then, perhaps it could be addiction - but that is usually spotted right off since patients files are sent to him prior to the first appt.
I feel for you. It's too bad there are some MD's who don't understand what it is like to live in pain days - and nights, too. Once one of them has experienced it themselves, they understand, or MD's who have been on the job awhile.
The "new" theory for MD's is to STOP ADDICTION, but they don't get the difference. When someone, especially over 40 has pain, they are usually not addicts. Why not let them live life more comfortably?
Perhaps you can explain this to your health care plan, and they can refer you to an MD/PSYCH who can help, or a pain clinic.
Good luck!
BTW - They make NORCO in 10/325, also. It helps to take it regularly BEFORE the pain begins, as it works better. Stick to a schedule.
Susan, Therapist (MA)

51 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-23 17:02:48

Answer/Reply:

Your brother also will become very addicted but I'm sure he probably is already, along with myself. I can relate to him though, I have had 3 neck surgeries and a lanmendectomy, which my doctor told me recently the medical community let me down.. He was not the doctor that did the surgeries. Now I have 5 discs in my back that are detriatingI and scoliosis. I guess that's commn. I have had all the injections, eperderals, etc. Nothing helps This docor just doesn't want to do a back surgery at this point since my neck sugeries did not relieve ANY pain. I take Norco and 3 oxycotin per day. However if I want to get off of them, and really see pain, I would have to go to the hospital to detox, THEN WHAT???.I told my doctor that i was probably dependent on them His remark"it's not your fault, you have to have some knd of life.' That pretty much sums it up.However, your brother is takng TOO many oxys , they do help the pain for about 6 hours. You must be able to take some pain. Oxys are like heroin and when and if you have to detox, it will probably lke being detoxed from heroin. Scares me!!!!!

62 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-04 15:25:21

Answer/Reply:

I have now had 6 spinal fusions. 5 lumbar & 1 multi-level cervical fusion. For the 1st time in 10yrs I do not have a cane in my hand. As for the pain. No, it isn't gone. In fact my pain meds have just been increased. I now take Vicodin 7.5/750. If you are not getting relief from your pain meds, you need to tell your doctor. If he/she treats you like a drug seeking addict, maybe it is time to find another physician. A pain specialist is something that you should look in to.
As for the injections. I have so many of them over the years that I lost count. I too found no relief. not after a single one.

43 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-24 19:50:49

Answer/Reply:

I had that problem with Drs assuming I just wanted the drugs also. Don't give up, you have to search for a good Pain Specialist. They will understand and help you. Regular Drs don't have the training or background to understand people who are dealing with chronic pain. But Pain Specialists do. That's all they deal with. Look for only Drs who have that title. Also, if you have faith pray....

35 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-13 17:00:08

Answer/Reply:

I found a FEMALE neurologist who is caring and does not try to patronize me, as the male foreign MD's have always done, with the exception of Dr. Ajmani, the rheumotoligist who found my problems.It was not a gender bias with him, but he is very much against narcotics. I am very much against constant pain, so I found her. My MD treated me as you described, although he pumped narcotics into my addict ex for the asking. It is hard to get proper healthcare for women, as most of our medical docs are not Americans, they want to give women sedatives or antidepressants, pat us on the head, and send us to our kitchens. Lol.We wish it was so easy.

Find a female Dr. of any nationality who will take your pain seriously. Women know and appreciate how hard we have worked our bodies, have the ability to listen, and are willing to help. I HAD to do this years ago, and have an appointment with her today.

To the men reading this, no disrespect intended. Respect is a two way street that many American men love and appreciate, although some still live in the dark. May God bless you all.

I hope this helps. Meanwhile, I get much relief from the theraheat pads on the days I take breaks from my meds to keep them working. I choose not to go stronger than the lortab 10/500 and soma for the pain. At only 47, I wish for something stronger for my later years.

The injections are a money racket, as I haven't known anyone they have helped more than a couple days. They even went inside my spine, injected the disc, pushed the threaded needle down into my sacriun for a second injection, shooting fire into my toes, making me flop like a fish, then scolding me for the involuntary movements he caused. Very painful and expensive. Never again.

Good luck and God bless you. I hope my advice has been helpful.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-22 02:34:38

Answer/Reply:

well i was injured on the job 4 years ago. I have been taking vicodin and oxycotin off and on. but now i notice that when i went to doctor they told me that the drugs might be affecting my liver, because readings were not normal, and the other day i saw blood in my stool. so i want to know if anybody know if that could cause that problem.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-03 17:50:23

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Vicodin is a combination medication containing both hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Acetaminophen, when taken in large doses or over a long period of time, can affect the liver. Acetaminophen is also found in many over-the-counter cold medicines and pain reliever products, so you need to be careful about the total daily amount of acetaminophen that your are taking. If you need to take an over-the-counter product, always check with your doctor or pharmacist first to make sure the product does not provide you with more than your daily recommended dose of acetaminophen.

Oxycontin and hydrocodone can both cause constipation, which could lead to blood in the stool. There are other issues can also cause blood in the stool. It is best to follow up with your doctor as soon as possible to discuss your symptom of blood in your stool.

Posted: 2009-06-16 01:34:41

Answer/Reply:

I have been on Norco also for about 5 years now 10/325 two every 4 hours due to three knee surgeries and right elbow surgery that left the nerves messed up. They wont shut off, so I am living in pain. I was taking 2 every 6 hours but it got so bad I couldnt use my arm. I do go to a Pain Management Dr. I had to go to the Hospital recently and was told my Liver enzymes level was elevated but my Family Dr. or Pain Dr. hasnt seemed worried. They havent said anything else about it, so I guess I need to demand a CBC myself. BTW I do love my Dr. dearly. They really believe no one should live in pain.

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-23 20:16:36

Answer/Reply:

I don't have an answer, but am interesting in the process you mentioned in your post. I am an 61 yr old female who has :osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia, Menier's Disease...and a few other things. Can you give me an upate on your daughter's progress? Thanks

62 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-18 17:29:00

Answer/Reply:

I believe it means "cover your ass"

58 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-28 13:42:26

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking Vicodin 7.5/750 mg 1-2 tablets three times a day since 1997 when I have my very first back surgery. The amount of acetaminophen I was taking in a day was a concern but they can monitor your liver values every 3-6 months.

Have you or your doctor considered that the joint pain may be from some type of arthritis since it is in the joints. I have also been told found it to be true that drinking as much water on a daily basis as you can will help with joint pain as it relubricates your joints.

Also, if you are addicted to that particular medication or any medication/drug for that matter when you try getting off of it/weaning off of it you are definitely going to have some MOOD/ANGER issues but they do go away in time. But you need help from your doctor while weaning off this medication so they can monitor your vital signs and just you in general for your safety and well-being.

Hope this helps you some - sorry it is so minimal.

39 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-25 14:23:34

Answer/Reply:

try to change to 5.0 like 500 mg for few weeks then try to cut down like 2 times a day then few weeks to change 1 a time day then few weeks to stop. My body is awful painful but I ingore it and still take vicodin once awhile if too serious. I used it without it like If I go out then I will use it to calm down on my body to walk around. if not move around like still it wont bother you. Good Luck or You ask your family doctor for second idea? Good day!

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-25 23:46:19

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I was also in 2 car accidents and have been suffering with Neck/back issues and RSD for 10 years. I have tried all the medications, pt, chiro, epidural injections....For the past year I have tried Botox injections. I have finally found some relief without feeling drugged out all the time. I have injections every three months and have approximately 6 weeks of relief out of every 3 months. After 6 weeks the pain gradually returns and you can't have another injection until 3 months have passed. You might want to ask your neurologist about this option.

Posted: 2009-03-18 11:19:54

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I hear you.. You need to get off the drugs..First and formost. Klonopin is addicting. It is said it is so addicting that if you come off it too soon you could die. Please ween your offf Klonopin slowly..
All people experience anxiety. Its been my experience that ussually it will go away on its own even before the drug klonopin takes effect. Do you smoke? If you do this could be the problem of anxiety since nicotine can make anyone anxious..

Its been my experience regarding neck and back pain that if you stand flat up against a wall then come off the wall in the same position that this could allieviate the pain and begin the healing process. Also I cannot stress the benefits of taking Cod liver oil.. buy it online it is usually fresher and keep it refridged..
Also simple rule..do not sleep with pillows. and never lay on your stomach..

Joseph

Posted: 2009-03-19 09:29:15

Answer/Reply:

I've been in two different rear-ending accidents, one faster speed, then one slow speed. Both left me with significant injuries, in which I went through 4 doctors and a misdiagnosis, before being referred (by an attorney) to a Chiropractic Neurologist, one of eight professionals in the this field type, in the state of Oregon (so a rare doctor!). I had not known how incredibly different this type of chiropractic care is, from the normal conventional chiropractic (I'll never do again!). I was told by several doctors, lawyers and insurance agents that I need to just "Deal" with it (the pain), and to just continue to take more pain killers. Not an ideal life for a 30 year old, right! I was not going to live another 30+ years in this type of pain, just drugging myself.

First off, did you know that your body can "feel" in more pain, than you really are in? Long term pain can cause your serotonin and dopamine levels to get "out of wack" which tricks your brain into telling your body that your pain threshold is lower, in other words, any pain that would normally feel little, would feel more painful than it really is.

End result after several months of these new treatments (Muscle stim, neuro chiropractic, supplements to balance my serotonin and dopamine levels and Grasten Tech to break up scar tissue), along with a HUGE willingness to put up with A LOT of home rehab, I finally recovered completely from my first accident! Of course I have the few days of soreness but seriously you can not ask for a miracle, an injury "may" effect you forever in some way or another, that I can deal with and work its way out. However, my second accident I'm still recovering from, and I go to the same doctor because I trust only him right now.

For people who are REALLY looking for an alternative, this is my suggestion, this was the only cure for the CAUSE of the pain, which in turn cured the pain. Please find yourself a good Chiropractic Neurologist!

31 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-16 21:06:53

Answer/Reply:

Wow! I can SO relate to this! I am 36 and slipped at work 5 years ago, hurting my back. I opted to go the physical therapy route vs. surgery. I moved to another state and have been unable to get treatment other than meds (physical therapy etc). I am currently on Lexapro, Klonopin and Vicodin. I am unable to sleep at night but can't take Ambien because it really messed up my memory. If I take Klonopin before bed I eventually go to sleep but wake up feeling like crap the next day. I have been on Percocet and various muscle relaxers, and my doctor occasionally switches things up when something stops working. I feel like I am not in control of my life, not able to do the things I want to do, and I am very grateful to be on Lexapro as I ran out of it one time for about 2 weeks and was a wreck! Hopefully something will be found to help those of us with chonic pain!

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-19 00:21:51

Answer/Reply:

I didn't know they could do nerve blocks. I have some of the same issues you do. Sounds like were in the same boat somewhat. I too take Norco 10/325. Now my doctor has put me on 15mg. Percocet without any tylenol in them. They are new. The last longer and work more effeciently. I has been perscribed Oxcontinin. I hated them. The side effects were horrible. Not alone they made my blood pressure sky rocket. However, for someone that has a tolerance to opiate pain medication, I sware, for me, now the Percocet without the additive of Tylenol worked amazing. You do not have to take them as often, and after three months I have been satisfied. Usually, your body builds a tolerence and you have to go up, eventually on the mg. to get relief. These have done really well for me. Of course, anyones goal would be to NOT have to take pain meds for the rest of their lives. Yet some of us may very well have to do just that. I hope this informations gives you an alternative option to discuss with your doctor. Your post certainly helped me with the option of "nerve blocking". I am going to discuss that with my doctor on my next visit. My neck, shoulder, and sciatic never is overwhelming sometimes. I have had "trigger point" injections, never nerve blocks. I hope they will have that option open to me! Thanks again.

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-18 12:52:08

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Wow, you really can't spell and have no grammar skills.

Posted: 2009-03-05 13:58:44

Answer/Reply:

i hope you still check these. I personally think you should get a second opinion. I would never agree for my 14 yr. old to take a narcotic 4 times a day and for the rest of her life. I have back problems myself and there are other ways without the pills. I go to a place called Capital spine and pain center. The Dr. gives me liquid motrin shots in my neck and back to relieve pain and it works much better than any pain pill and alot safer. Pain pills like the one you are allowing your daughter to take are VERY addictive. If you don't want your daughter addictive to pain pills I suggest you look into other ways of treating her.

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-06 08:56:56

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We are taking her to a docter in Lubbock Tx that is a pain docter on manday March9. Will be our second opinion.

35 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-07 00:18:43

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Strangely enough, from what I now understand Hydrocodone is fairly safe in itself other than being addictive. The Tylenol @ 2000mg daily can cause more long term problems than the hydrocodone from what my pharmacists tell me. 14 is awfully young to have to start this - I'm almost 50 and I am concerned about taking it for the rest of my life, I can't imagine starting this as a kid. I hope there is another way to deal with the pain for your child. I have to take as many as 6 10/325's daily for my herniated disks and it really clouds my thinking. It isn't as bad now as when I first started taking it but I can still tell I'm not as sharp as I should be. This could be very detrimental to her schoolwork regardless of the school.

50 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-24 19:53:23

Answer/Reply:

You do not want your daughter to become an addict; I have been there and it is a nightmare. On the other hand, only she knows how bad her pain is, so she may or may not really need it. For a doctor to tell her that she needs to take it the rest of her life, that is bs. Also, for the school to disregard her need for education, it is not her fault that this is happening. I would suggest maybe cutting down a little on the medication, but it depends on her pain and nobody wants their child to be in pain. I am taking 5/500 for hernia and I can honestly say that it does help, but eventually tolerance increases and more of the same medication is required. It may also be depressing for her to be told that she will be on medication the rest of her life, so throw that option out the window. I hope I helped a little!

27 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-10 11:40:37

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

why are you taking that for a hernia why not just have the surgery done. i did back in october. and i was only on the pain meds for 2 months but i can see how easily ppl can be come addicted

Posted: 2009-03-12 22:11:54

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The spine doctor and PAIN SPECIALIST IS A GREAT IDEA.
Funny I was diagnosed with Lupus in 1996,9 of 11 syptoms no posative ANA.
My daugter who is now 24 had a friend diagnosed at the same time.
Somthing going on here in Greeley Colorado.
Long story short after 13 meds110 pounds on steroids 3 docs,I go to aspine and pain specialist.
DR SISSON,EXCELLENT DR.
He saved my life, my duaghters friend died 2 years ago, I told her mother stop the drugs get a 5 th opnion if needed. to late now. As of 7/07,and O STERIODALEPIDERAL SHOTS,I have lost 60lbs continue to loose without trying I am 43 FEELING THE BEST I HAVE SINCE 96, BOTOX INJECTIONS IN THE NECK AND BACK SPINE OR PLAIN NOVACAIN 2 TIMES A WHEN VERY BAD, SOME MONTHS NONE, WEATHER HERE DOES CUASE DIFFERNECE / 1
EVERY 6 MONTHS CERVICAL EPI . USED TO BE ON 240 VICODEN AND 240 ULTRAM MONTHLY
Will make BIGG!!! DIFFERENCE

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-23 14:55:29

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I AM A 54 YEAR OLD MAN WHO HAD SPINAL FUSION ON MY LOWER BACK I AM ON LORTAB AND OXYCOTIN I CAN NOT BELEIVE THAT YOUR DOCTOR HAS YOUR 14 YEAR OLD ON LORTAB YOU HAVE TO GET A SECOND OPINION. SHE SHOULD BE GOING TO PYSICAL THERAPY FIRST.IF THAT DOES NOT HELP I WOULD SEE A SURGEN LET HIM ADVISE YOU ON WHAT YOUR NEXT STEP SHOULD BE.GET HER OFF THAT MEDICATION NOW THAT IS NOT FOR A YOUNG CHILD!

55 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-23 12:25:37

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In texas we have docters that push pain pills and cocktails on patients from Dalls to Houston Tx. I didn't know this till the doctor in Lubbock told us about it. The doctors in our part of the state where we live at don't think about patients are being addict to pain pills. If you have time to look up the news in Houston Tx on doctors. But we live out side of Dallas Tx. The family medicine doctors are the same way. They give out pain pills in large numbers. My 14teen yearold in dec.2008 we asked the doctor about pysical therapy. He said no she does not need it the only time you use pysical therapy is after surgery.

35 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-24 00:40:16

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I think that taking pain medication is necessary,but addictive only if you are weak,I admit at 14 you could be vunerable to addiction,but I also have lower back pain,I'm taking vicodin,naproxen,and tylenol extra strenghth,I still have pain,I don't think pain pills is the answer,but sots to the neck and back seem harsh as well,I am looking for other ways to aleviate my pain,but until that time I will still use the pain pills to get through my days,I take them 5 times a day and nothing is working,I would tell them to hang on there has to be something else out there.

46 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-23 14:35:14

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I am a 53 yr old female. I have Osteo and Fibro as well as degenerative spine/bone disease. I have taken Vicodin for years for these conditions and have not become addicted to them. How do I know this..There are times and I admit that they are few and far between but I am able to get by on prescription strength Ibuprofen. I have a few suggestions for the parents of the 14 yr old. First, do not let the school bully you..Contact the state school board. Also, I use a Lidocaine patch that helps me alot. I had back surgery on a herniated disc as well as a cyst on the nerve system that runs thru the spine. I am now 9 months post surgery and finally get some relief from it..Physical therapy has not helped any of my conditions. I strongly suggest that anyone that has not tried the Lidocaine patches to give them a try. Also, to help with the severe pain my Rheumatolgist gives me tramadol that I can take with the Vicodin when the pain is unbearable..I hope this info will help someone...

55 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-31 13:41:55

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I am 30 years old and I have been on every type of pain pill you could think of... Some are additive and some are not.. I have migrains that usually makes me pass out. So when my specialist gave me the meds. I tried them. Pain pill becomes your addiction when you are taking them and you are not in pain. I only take mines when i need too. Not 3 times a day like the Dr. said..I think you as parents should use your best judgement...Don't give them to her if she is not in pain

31 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-01 14:53:26

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I am very concerned with what is going on with your daughter regarding her school and CPS. I have worked for a school system for close to eighteen years as a specialized counselor who deals with these issues. Your school board apparently do not believe they have to follow federal law. Federal law is exceeding clear. It is a constitutional right that schooling is provided for your daughter. You, as the parent, have many more rights than you realize. As a parent, you have the right to choose a school since your school system cannot meet the Federal Law that it can provide health services that are needed for your daughter. This is your Constitutional and Federal Right. Whatever school you and your daughter choose, your school system is responsible for tuition. As for CPS, as much as I understand that they are trying to help you, please be careful. There is usually a very good reason they are suggesting you sue the school system and it's a CYA reason. If you need any more help, please let me know.

39 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-31 18:56:17

Answer/Reply:

Hi I have the 14year old daughter. The last time I talked to the cps was in Dec.18, 2008. She said that if I needded her for anything I could just call her at anytime but I have not called her at all. The school cost $1300.00 from Jan - May 2009 this year. What is CYA? Do we need to sue the school? My daughter is making all A's now she was making B and C in her old school. She has not had any lortab March 18, 2009. The Doctor in Lubbock told use that the pain would come back the shots don't last a long time. She is pain free for now. She see the doctor on April 24, 2009 In Lubbock Tx..

35 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-01 23:13:59

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I have digernitive disc disease and will be on pain and muscle relaxants for the rest of my life. I have the metal plate in my next. Am holding off as long as possible for the lower back surgery. I try to take 2 pills aday only. Then if I have to take more I ask my doctor to change my medication so that I do not get hooked on any one drug. I am 54 years old and now have arthritis in the joint facets of my spine.

54 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 13:06:17

Answer/Reply:

I also have DDD and have had two surgeries on my L5-S1 (1st fusion failed). I have seen several doctors since then, trying to find one that could help me get my life back. Some of them have told me that once I started having surgery the DDD accelerated. When I had my first surgery there was only one disk affected, and less than 5 years later ALL of them showed some degree of deterioration. I also have arthritis the length of my spine, plus in both hips now. I was told this was caused by the surgeries. Like you, I will also be on pain meds and muscle relaxers forever. Ask your doctor if Atarax (generic: Hydroxyzine HCL) might help you - I had to take it for an allergic reaction and noticed I could take less pain meds while on it. If it can help you take fewer pills while relieving your pain better, it's worth trying. I started calling them my "magic pills". I hope they work for you as well - we could be siblings!

54 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-06 17:46:12

Answer/Reply:

I also take Hydrocodone which is generic for Vicodin. Two 500 mg. every 8-10 hours. I was taking six a day but have gotten it down to four. My body tells be no matter what I'm doing usually 8-10 hours that I need it. I had breast cancer and because of the chemo I was given, the strongest that I could get because I have Her-2 type I have bone pain. I have been on these for over a year and so far my doctor doesn't have a problem giving me them. I don't think I'm addicted to them. I tried taking 800 mg. of Ibuprofen but it didn't work.

65 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 17:06:39

Answer/Reply:

If your body is telling you after about 8-10 hrs that the pills are needed then there may be some addiction going on. Vicadin is one of the highest narcotics that cause addiction. Some drs. don't care like you think if so they would change up the meds. to keep the addiction from happening.

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-06 09:09:38

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I've been talking Norco with Tylenol for years and read up on it and asked many doctors and emergeny rooms doctors about the effects on my liver. I have a fatty liver due to this. However, I've gone through 2 ultrasounds for my liver and the effect that Tylenol has on it CAN be reversed. It does not stay in your liver forever like you mentioned in your comment. I have a morphine pump and am taking the Norco, please limit your intake but your liver can be reversed, it's not perminent. I'm not sure where you got that information but it is incorrect. Thought that this might ease your mind.

49 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-11 16:21:59

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

To ease your mind a little about the Tylenol content you're taking; it's safe to take up to 4000mg of Tylenol a day, not 2000. As long as you're taking 4000mg or under, it's fine. If you look at over the counter Tylenol or acetamenophin, the bottle says "do not exceed 8 tablets in 24 hours". That's because they're 500mg each which amounts to 4000 a day.

I've also spoken to my doctor and several pharmacists regarding Tylenol specifically. They've all said the same.. 4000mg or less is fine. Hope this eases your mind.

Posted: 2009-03-15 01:07:35

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Yes...I now realy watch the amount of pain pills that I take.I fell a few years back across the edge of the tub-laid there for an hour before moving .I had shattered disks and had bone fragments hitting my syatic nerve And after undergoing 2 major operations and 2 procedures to burn off the nerves in my back,extensive therapy I was on 6000MG a DAY-Hydrocone -then the doc's took me off cold turkey -I also have 18 points of fibromyalga,rumitism,arthritis and severe depression.I also began self medicating from friends and off the street. Thank goodness the doc's reviewed my case and now have me on a regiment of perscribed medications that I usually take less of than perscribed but enough to allow me to function,Before the review I would be down days on end-not wanting to bathe,dress,eat or move at all,there were times I thought only a "38" would put me out of my misery.I am afraid of the potential liver problems that I may end up with.

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-21 19:17:48

Answer/Reply:

I was also very concerned about my liver. There are 2 real good medicinals for the liver
N - Acetyl cysteine This is what is given for tylonol overdose. and
Silymarin Milk Thistle. I take both daily

51 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-04 15:08:00

Answer/Reply:

As a certified pharmacy tech I will say , it was not your imagination. This is a very touchy subject. You see because vicodin is a controlled subject it carries a sigma with it. As with all "controlled medications." I am one who believes that the scheduleing of medications needs an over haul. I am in the same situation but a little different. I had surgey on my knee and shoulder. I cannot take nsaids because of stomach problems. So the only thing left that works is vicodin. Some people will try to tell you that vicodin will upset your stomach so what's the difference? Well, NSAIDS (Motrin, Aleve,etc) acts directly on your stomach which can cause bleeding in your stomach among other problems. The reason your stomach may feel upset on opiodes (vicodin) is because it acts directly on the " chemo trigger zone" in your brain. The chemo trigger zone is responsible for nausea, vomitintg. I could really go on but, I don't think you want me to. If you do. Just tell me.

39 year old Male

Posted: 2009-01-16 18:13:29

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Yes, I would like you to go on! I have had four back surgerys, and have 7 two inch screws in my back. I have to take vicodine because I have a VERY bad reaction to every pain med they have given me. The problemis, I won't take it as prescribed (3xa day) because it makes me get an immediate headach, and feellike I am going to throw up. I try taking ahalf tablet, and if I don't get sick, I wait twohoursandtake the other half. NOW, I have been diagnosed with polymyalgic rhuematic, & have been on prednisone for three onths. It has had SO many bad side effects, I am afraid to take Vicodine with it. I also have VERY high blood pressure, and take atenolol, hydroclorithyizide, norvasc, liscinopril, (with no improvement) For about ten years, I have had to go for cortisteroid facet injections in my back for relief, & because I amon prednisone they can't do it! I had a severe case of shingles in April of this year, & they increasded the gabipentin that I was taking for back pain to 1200 mgs a day. I am at my wits end, & worried about what all these meds are doing to me that I don't know! I know my blood pressure will never be under control because of the pain cycle. Tell me how to take vicodine without the queasy stomach & headache. Someone said take dramimine!

66 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-23 22:22:08

Answer/Reply:

I am sorry it took so long to reply. I I'll try to help. I understand what you must be going through. I have epilepsy. It was trial ans error with meds Mostly error! With anxity, migraines, then the surgery. My knee, and shoulder ingurys were a result of a seizure. The dramamine can work, it is an antihistamine (Benadryl). BUT, In combination with the other meds you are taking will really make you very sleepy. Plus it is another pill to take. Taking it with food might help. But, remember that the nausea feeling is an action that happens within the brain and really cannot be helped without medication that is for nausea. As for the headache, the cause could be anything. Technicly, the Vicodin has two ingredents with helps with headaches. Please remember I am NOT a doctor. I am a certified pharmacy tech, who educates my self beyound what is required of me, reseach things the medical field fails to tell people in some cases. I also love to help people. I hope I could help you. Remember to always talk to your doctor before taking anything. I have to say that!! Please get a doctor that you trust and be totaly honest with what is going on with you.

39 year old Male

Posted: 2009-02-11 13:53:02

Answer/Reply:

Always take Vicodin with some kind of food - an ounce or protein or one starch. AND always drink 16 ounces of WATER when you take it. That will help he queasiness. If that doesn't help with the nausea, there are prescription anti nausea meds that are not expensive that you would take like an hour before te vicodin. Good luck!

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-18 16:15:11

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According to the instructions with my prescription, for Vicodin to be most effective it should be taken on an empty stomach: 1 hour prior to eating or 2 hours after eating. Both my mother and sister are unable to take Vicodin due to extreme nausea and they've tried taking with food, milk, and etc. to no avail. So if you're yakking up your pain meds, they're not the ones for you and your doctor should prescribe something you CAN tolerate!

54 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-06 18:57:35

Answer/Reply:

Hi;

I am new here but noticed you seem to have a problem I had recently. The amount of tylenol in my Lortab was so high my Doc said it was giving me "rebound headaches", which also made me sick on my stomach after the headache pain persisted. I don't think you mentioned how much tylenol is in your vicoden, but the side affects sounded so simular, I thiught it may be the same problem. She cut the tylenol down from 600 to Lortab 10/325. I now get the pain relief without the bonus pain.

This may not be your problem, but is worth checking into. It worked for me. Good luck. I hope your condition improves.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-26 01:22:46

Answer/Reply:

You are very wise. As for the Tylenol Arthritis Formula, the medicine is basicly the same as any other over ther counter medicine. Its acetaminophen. Maybe with caffene and asprin. There only a few OTC pain relievers avalible. There are a million brand names!! There is naproxen sodium (Aleve), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), acetylsalicylic acid (Bayer, Ecotrin, all which is asprin), and acetaminophen (Tylenol, plus a million others).

39 year old Male

Posted: 2009-02-11 14:24:31

Answer/Reply:

Yes u r right about the otc drugs but I took Aleve for a few years. It has caused severe liver damage. I now have cirrohsis of the liver and have only drank occasionally in my lifetime. So there are many pros and cons to these meds as well. I have also been told that cymbalta could have caused my liver disease. If anyone knows about that please let email me at shellygibson99@hotmail.com Thank you

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-18 22:59:33

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Hello,

I read your post and saw that you mentioned trying Tylenol Arthritis formula. I looked at that medication at the store. I'm one of those people who reads the labels and ingredients of everything. When reading the arthritis formula, there was no difference between that and just regular extra strength tylenol. Acetomenophen is the only ingredient as well as the exact same amount of milligrams.

I couldn't believe my eyes. It's very misleading to add the word "arthritis" and then see it's the exact same medicine that's in the every other bottle of Tylenol. Please don't waste your money. If you've tried OTC Tylenol and it's made no difference, Tylenol arthritis meds won't work either because it's the same med and same dosage in each bottle no matter what it says it's there to relieve.

Posted: 2009-03-15 01:23:06

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

i have been taking vicodin ES for 10 years. it still works, but has less effect than it originally had, because my body has a large tolerance to this drug. The other problem, is that it is habit forming. i say only take this medication for a month at most, and then take a week off, then take it again for a month. or try taking it on weekdays, and not taking it on weekends. That will help to keep you from being addicted. I am in so much pain that i have to take it all the time. So now i am sure that i am addiced to it. i hope this helps you.

Posted: 2008-12-27 02:24:10

Answer/Reply:

ive been taking the 5/500 tablets for 2 years for shoulder pain, the dr. prescribed 30 pills per month at first or one pill a day. now 2 yrs later i recieve 90 pills a month or 3 pills a day. without a doubt my tolerance level has tripled and i know there's some degree of dependency on my part towards the drug. 1 pill does nothing for pain, then 2 did nothing now its three pills a day and most likely to increase from there.
take caution when ingesting this medication, its stealth like...

48 year old Male

Posted: 2009-01-22 18:51:33

Answer/Reply:

I've been taking Vicodin ES for 7 years and will have to continue for the remainder of my life, therefore I have done extensive research on the difficulties patients have with being treated like addicts. Yes, Vicodin is a controlled substance and CAN be addictive. However, medical professionals far more knowledgeable than most of the people on this board have determined that legitimate patients suffering from chronic pain (and anyone that must use a narcotic for pain for more than 3 months falls into that category) are not, and cannot get, addicted. In layman's terms, it's not the Vicodin we crave, it's the relief from pain. And we don't care how we get it. (If Flintstones vitamins would relieve my back pain, I would never WANT to take another Vicodin.) And until the Drug Enforcement Agency quits treating us like addicts and our doctors like dealers, the pharmacists will always look at us like we're trying to score a fix...

54 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-06 19:08:32

Answer/Reply:

The 5 is the active drug in the Vicoden. How does it work for you? I have chronic back and neck pain from sport injuries and this didn't work for me. I have been put on so many different drugs and I was put on Xanax for my anxiety and panic attacks and it actually makes me less tense and I don't need a lot of pain medication unless I do a lot which is normal for me but if I move or paint my house big things like that then I take my pain medication. The thing about pain medication is if you do take it regulary like daily three to four times you get used to it and your body knows your going to take it you might want to try and not take it that many times and you may see a difference when you do take it. Just remember that your body gets used to it. I hope this helps...

22 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-29 19:58:53

Answer/Reply:

I have Osteoarthritis in numerous locations. I take Vicodin 5/500 about 4 Times per day, but mostly in 1/2 pill doses to avoid addiction. On occasion I go a day without any. For awhile the doctor gave me the 7.5/700 strength, but I didn't get it refilled because of the addiction fear factor. Does this method work? I don't have a problem laying off for a day, so i would say it helps.

66 year old Male

67 year old Male

Posted: 2009-01-02 11:48:09

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I have both cervical and lumbar stenosis, last year I had surgery to correct the cervical problem but that did not address the lower back problem. I still have pain form both the surgery and the lumbar problem so I am taking 100mg of MS Contin every 12 hrs and 2 tablets of Norco(Vicodin) 10/325 every six hours as needed for break through pain. I have not become addicted to either but over the year I have built up a tolerance to both of these drugs. I have been switched over to Oxycontin and Oxycodone (percocet). My pain mangement doctor explains that if you are on long term medication you sometimes have to rotate the medications when you develop a tolerance. Once you start on your regimen for pain stoping and starting is not a good thing because by the time you take your medications your pain has increaded an sometimes you try to correct the pain by taking more of the medication. This is not the way to handle the problem. You are better off taking everything as perscribed. I have tried doing without when I feel better but when the pain returns it comes back stronger than beforeand have overmedicated to try and releave the pain. It is better to follower the program. Even thought this is alot of medication I have not developed an addiction.

Posted: 2009-01-22 18:14:51

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Your method is good. Even if you were to take the stronger ones, I think your safe. Ultimatly, it depends on your personality. If you hafe an addictive personality you have to be careful.

39 year old Male

Posted: 2009-02-11 14:36:20

Answer/Reply:

I am taking norco 10/325 and I have been taking this kind of meds for years and most likely will for life. I have degenerative disk and joint disease and pain meds offer me a quality of life. It is highly likely that taking addictive meds can make you addicted but if you are only taking what is prescribed and not abusing your prescription by taking more than you should than I don't see what the problem is. I know I would probably not want to try to spend a day with out my meds but why should i endure pain and not be "functional" because its addictive, I need it to make life bearable I am grateful my doctor gives me something that allows me to be "pain free". If you want to have a better quality of life its better pain free.

48 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-06 15:40:34

Answer/Reply:

The 5 refers to the mgs of the Vicodin (hydrocodone) in each pill. If you are concerned with that much tylenol in your medication you should know that this medication comes in this dose (and higher) with only 325mgs of tylenol. You are taking a relatively small dose. I take 10/325s six times a day (every 4 hours). Too much tylenol is bad for your liver.

51 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-02 12:34:32

Answer/Reply:

4000 mgs in a 24 hour period can be toxic.

39 year old Male

Posted: 2009-01-16 18:43:36

Answer/Reply:

Try Lyrica. I too have Fibromyalgia along with Migraine headaches. Since I have been taking Lyrica my pain has reduced considerably and my Migraines are few and far between. I take the Lyrica at night and have no problem in the morning. I also suffer from muscle spasms in my neck and I take Balofen for these on occasion (also before bed). The lyrica and Baclofen have allowed me to reduce the amount of other medications I was taking for pain. Ask your Dr. about Lyrica and see if he/she has samples to try. Good luck.

49 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-26 17:30:10

Answer/Reply:

I would like to know if the Lyrica has caused you weight gain? This is a problem for me. i take Methadone but my Family would like me to get off of it.My doctor wouldn't swithch me to that for that reason. I had a friend that had been on it and she looked like she had"chipmunk cheeks" of like she had big mouthfuls in her cheeks and face.I'd like to know results before switching.I'd appreciate your feedback.

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-22 20:09:49

Answer/Reply:

I have had Fibromyalgia for almost 10 years. I've been out of work since 2000. I will pray for you. I can probably answer a lot of questions you may have. The most important thing is to know you are one of many. I am here for you if you need to ask me anything.

Blessings and healing to you.
Dana

48 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-30 12:48:42

Answer/Reply:

I have suffered with Migraines ever since I can remember. I would lay in my parents room because it was dark and cool and cry myself to sleep on codine. I have now found a Neurologist who has cured me. I no longer need to overdose myself with every pain medication possible. Lyrica and Relpax have worked wonders. My migraines come out of nowhere and slam me into a 10 - 15 on the pain scale. The minute they hit I take a relpax and it does work to take them away or bring them to at least a 3 then extra strength Tylenol knocks out the remaining pain. I am a drug addict/alcoholic ans I really have to be careful with pain meds due to my extremely high tolerance. The Lyrica I take every night and the Relpax (or Maxalt in a pinch) I keep for those special occasions now. I was having migraines every other day and I have only had 1 in the last 6 months. Talk to your Dr. about these 2 drugs. They really helped me when nothing else did.

49 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-26 17:38:42

Answer/Reply:

I know all about migraines. i suffered with them for about 18 yrs. and of the worse kind. i had them atleast once a month and they lasted me 3 days each. I could count on day no. 2 to be the peak. I crawled, threw up, layed in a dark room and only breathing warm air with my eyes covered. I would even put real cold or real hot compresses on my head or even a tight band around my head so atleast it was the pain from these things i felt to divert me a few minutes away from my migraine. By the second day, I would just cry and stuffing up the sinuses did not help the matter. In those days the only pain relief was something they would give me but only it masked the very worse of the headace and it would always return not to mention the horrible stomach ache I would get from these meds so I usually went cold turkey for years. Finally my Dr. precribed a new Imitrex shot. Oh what a blessing. Then the Imitrex went to pill for and it save my life. Now that I am 68, I am migraine free so there is life after death. I think my migraines started somewhere around age 35 and tapered off and ended by 55. I do feel sorry for anyone that mentions MIGRAINES.

70 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-16 09:36:25

Answer/Reply:

I have had problems with migraines that would be relieved with Imitrex or Zomig but would return every night at the same time (2-3AM) for months! After a visit with my honey I figured out it happened when I would roll onto my side. I have had 3-levels fused in my neck but things are still degenerating so I'm probably due for more surgery. Right now I sleep with a contoured pillow & that usually keeps me on my back. RecentIy, I haven't had to take many pain pills either. Have you had your neck checked? I was mostly symptom free - just numbness in my thumb, before that I had some elbow pain like I had been hitting it on something. Elbow pain was misdiagnosed as "tennis elbow." Figured the numb thumb was a pinched nerve but the MRI showed my spinal cord was being squashed to 1MM (normal spinal diameter 14-17MM) by degenerating cervical discs. Make sure you have your neck checked out!

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-10 19:23:28

Answer/Reply:

they do make it in 10/325mg it's called Norco. or hydrocodone APAP 10/325. it helps for a while. but with chronic pain for over 30 years they only work so well. hope this helped.

55 year old Male

Posted: 2008-12-18 16:26:48

Answer/Reply:

I have severe back pain due to failed back surgery and nerve root damage. Vicodin/Norco help ease the pain. DO NOT expect it to take the pain away all together but it will help. Yes you MUST not take Tylenol when on Vicodin as it already has it in it!

48 year old Male

Posted: 2008-12-15 05:23:19

Answer/Reply:

You should have emphysized the NOT not the MUST scary if read to wrong

59 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-26 13:37:21

Answer/Reply:

GO TO AN ORTHOPEDIC DOCTOR MAKE SURE YOU CHECK HIM/HER OUT FULLY NO PAIN MANAGEMENT THEY LIE. THEY ASK A FEW ?'s AND WRITE U OUT SCRIPTS. NOW YOUR A DRUGG ADDICTED. PLEASE TAKE MY ADVISE I HAVE BEEN DOING THIS CRAP FOR 15 YEARS.

THANK YOU EMAIL isbeltagy@aol.com

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-09 05:56:21