Shoreline

Hi Derme, I can certainly understand being sick of being dependent on meds, docs and pharmacies.

I would think that part of the problem is living in 4 hour incriments. Wait 45 minutes for the meds to work, and then try to cram as much as you can in during the next 2and 1/2 hours before it wears off. HAve you ever tried the long acting meds? The fact that vidodin is still working 8 years later shows you that when taking meds for pain, it doesn't mean your tolerance will continue to increase and increase.

A low dose of a 24 hour med or a patch would certainly free you from the clock watching and never being able to go more than 4 hours without taking a pill. That's a big part of why most PM docs prefer the LA meds, is the freedom once a day or twice a day dosing can bring without the constant reminders of being dependent. By not being able to go more than 4 hours without having to redose you can never put the thoughts of pain or the return of pain out of your mind.

Hydrocodone is really no stronger than morphine mg to mg but the dose of hydro is limited by the apap. You don't have to worry about liver damage from pure long actng opiates and it really makes a difference not waiting for the next dose and clock watching and knowing you have to have the meds with you or be home in time and all the other negative factors of 4 hour meds.

I wish you luck, tapering off Vicodin is just like any other opiate, It doesn't have to be fast and furious leaving you sick for weeks. If done properly, using adjunct meds like clonodine, you can still withdrawal safely and comfortably at your own pace. Good luck, Dave