New to Board....Need advice/help

[Squelchie]

Hey everyone! For 6 years a pain management doctor prescribed Methadone for pain related to Fibromyalgia...he also prescribed Dilaudid (hydromorphone) for any additional pain that the Methadone didn't take care of.
Over the past 4 months, thru a new doctor, I've been able to wean off of the Methadone...in fact, I took my last dose on Friday, 4/25. However, my new doctor has still been prescribing Dilaudid as needed.

I'm having a lot of problems with what I think are withdrawal symptoms:
1. Severe sleepiness
2. My legs ache and feel a bit restless..like I need to continually stretch.
3. Depression and at times crying.

Basically, I just feel like crap.

Right now, I'm feeling okay because I took a dose of Dilaudid...that's the only thing that seems to help all of my symptoms. I realize that both Methadone and Dilaudid are both opiate-type medications and when I take the Dilaudid it's taking care of my body's dependance.

I really don't know where to go from here....up until recently I never took Dilaudid on a daily basis...only as needed.
I was so excited to finally wean myself off of Methadone but it seems like I've got another vicious monkey that I need to get off my back.

If anyone has any advice or can help me...I'd really appreciate it. I'm married, have 2 kids and need to get back to normal (whatever that is..lol) as soon as is reasonably possible.

Thank you!!
Cara

[Yossarian22]

hi squelchie, sorry to hear of your predicament.

The symptoms you described are classic withdrawal syptoms. The thing with withdrawals is that it affects everyone differently. It took me a month to feel 'normal-ish' after tapering off 60ml of methadone (the taper was a slow gradual one). There are a number of things you can do to alleviate some of these symptoms.

1. Drink plenty of water (tonic water also contains Quinine which is said to help with cramps.
2. Bananas are a good source of potassium which is also apparently good for the leg cramps
3. Hot Baths - esp before bed (if you have any lavender oil - add it to the bath as it is said to aid sleep)
4. Hot water bottles for the aching leg cramps.
5. Light exercise will tire your legs out & release endorphins which will help with the pain relief (i think)

It does get easier tho - its a day by day process. I appreciate your situation too, its tough trying to be the 'family man/woman' when you feel like you've been hit by a truck load of wrenches.
How much methadone were you on btw?

i hope this helps

keep us posted

yoss

keep on keepin on

[Friend999]

Cara,

There are so many people on this forum that can help you. Some know about your particular situation, and some don;t but both types will give you caring and tremendous support.

Please keep reading and posting. You will truly be glad you did!

Friend999

[Lindsabins]

Squelchie, I amso have severe fibro and went to my first pain doctor and he said he will not prescribe meds for fibro. I was so mad and upset I just leftthe office. I have an appointment with a new DR tomorrow but I am not getting my hopes up. I almost just think I will have to learn to live with it which is so hard. Lindsay

[vickyc]

I am sorry Cara to hear that both you and Lindsay has Fibro ! It does sound like w/d's. Listen to the advice Yoss gives..I happen to think he is brilliant For the leg bends (as I call them) If your doctor can prescribe Clonidine for you, it will help greatly. It is a blood pressure medication, but does help the bends as well as the all over aches. My doc was dilaudid, and had two rough attempts at going CT, but this week went to the Dr. and started Suboxone, very expensive, but to "me" I feel as though I am still using..just legally. That is another story.... But I do wish you well, stick to these boards, the people here are a wealth of knowledge and the best supporters..ever! Love and Peace..Vicky