Long term Opiate use....

Use this section to discuss your experiences with prescription drugs, iron injections, and other medical interventions that involve the introduction of a drug or medicine into the body. Discuss side effects, successes, failures, published research, information about drug trials, and information about new medications being developed.

Important: Posts and information in this section are based on personal experiences and recommendations; they should not be considered a substitute for the advice of a healthcare provider.
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runkrun
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Long term Opiate use....

Post by runkrun »

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.

SquirmingSusan
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Post by SquirmingSusan »

I don't get too concerned about it anymore. I don't like the hassle of picking up the prescription every month, but it's better than the alternative of out of control RLS.
Susan

Neco
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Post by Neco »

I'm sure many of us here feel that opiates have saved our lives.. Although in my case Methadone in particular probably saved my life from extremely self destructive behavior.

Polar Bear
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Post by Polar Bear »

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.
Betty
https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/a ... 0/fulltext
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badnights
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Post by badnights »

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.

emmettdigger
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Post by emmettdigger »

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...

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kickyknees
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Post by kickyknees »

I worry more about running out of meds than long-term addictions, although augmentation is on my short list. :evil:

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

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kickyknees
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Post by kickyknees »

"running out of meds":
meaning replacing doctor if ever needed, or natural disaster.

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

Neco
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Post by Neco »

Both, in my book.

I already went through the replacing doctor thing.. Not by choice, still a little unsure how the new one will pan out. But no indication of problems - yet.

runkrun
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Post by runkrun »

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.

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kickyknees
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Post by kickyknees »

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.

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

Neco
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Post by Neco »

Just make sure you make it last as long as possible.

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