Long term Opiate use....
Long term Opiate use....
Does anyone else in this forum get concerned about long term Opiate use?I'm on Oxycodone 15 mg every 4-6 hrs. Even though I've been to hell and back trying to find the right drug combo to relieve symptoms, I still get nervous regarding long term use. I'm in my 50's and can't imagine taking this for th rest fo my life! I guess it's better than the alternative, suicidal thoughts when my RLS is out of control for months on end. Just thought I'd vent my feelings, and needed some feedback.
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Yes, I get fed up taking meds all the time, and I've just started another one.......
However..... the thought of what I'd be like without them does not bear thinking about. And I really mean that.
The alternative of being without meds, in particular my rls meds, is not even a consideration.
However..... the thought of what I'd be like without them does not bear thinking about. And I really mean that.
The alternative of being without meds, in particular my rls meds, is not even a consideration.
Betty
https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/a ... 0/fulltext
Opinions presented by Discussion Board Moderators are personal in nature and do not, in any way, represent the opinion of the RLS Foundation
https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/a ... 0/fulltext
Opinions presented by Discussion Board Moderators are personal in nature and do not, in any way, represent the opinion of the RLS Foundation
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runrun, it's one of the things I want to ask my GP about tomorrow. I feel like I should lower my dose, and raise it only when I've had a few bad nights, and keep a bit of control on it that way. But I can't do that because I get the drug in 12mg pills, which is the highest dose I need, and I can't break them because they're sustained release.
It bothers me to think of what I'll be like if I ever run out. Not only will I have suicidal RLS, I will have opiod withdrawal on top of that. I would have to keep doing deep squats while puking, geez.
It bothers me to think of what I'll be like if I ever run out. Not only will I have suicidal RLS, I will have opiod withdrawal on top of that. I would have to keep doing deep squats while puking, geez.
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I definitely worry about long term methadone use - I've been on it for 1 year. Unfortunately, research for RLS isn't at the top of anyone's list and there aren't a lot of alternatives to opiates. I hope there will be something in the future but honestly, I anticipate being on methadone for a long time.
I never thought my RLS would be relieved but thanks to methadone, I hardly ever have symptoms anymore...
I never thought my RLS would be relieved but thanks to methadone, I hardly ever have symptoms anymore...
- kickyknees
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I worry more about running out of meds than long-term addictions, although augmentation is on my short list. ![Evil or Very Mad :evil:](./images/smilies/icon_evil.gif)
![Evil or Very Mad :evil:](./images/smilies/icon_evil.gif)
Beware Nerve Blocks! Given at rotator cuff surgery brought on WED/RLS. Since then have had TJR in each shoulder and one knee under General Anesthetic.
1mg ropinirole 4x/day
7.5mg hydrocodone 4x/day
- kickyknees
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kickyknees, Yes running out of meds can be a problem if your physician has an emergency, is on vacation, etc. However, I think most of us keep a "stash" just in case. Also, as opiate users, if were taking them properly we should'nt run out. Zach is right about replacing a doctor. If your physician is not following the Mayo Algo., then find one who does, and willing to write for your opiates monthly.
- kickyknees
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After his negativity toward the Mayo Alg. and continued opioid treatment in conjunction with my ropinirole, I was curious what my PCP would do when I needed refill on hydrocodone--but he wrote me another script yesterday for 30 days. Also have my first neuro appt Thursday due to a cancellation, so if I don't like the outcome of him, I'll wait for the other guy in august
and keep my fingers crossed my PCP will continue prescribing 30-day bottles.
![Sad :(](./images/smilies/icon_sad.gif)
Beware Nerve Blocks! Given at rotator cuff surgery brought on WED/RLS. Since then have had TJR in each shoulder and one knee under General Anesthetic.
1mg ropinirole 4x/day
7.5mg hydrocodone 4x/day