The person to ask about dosages and interactions is your Physician or, if that is uncomfortable for you, your Pharmacist. The interaction can also vary from person to person.

I think all of your questions and threads should be best addressed by one medical professional who is familiar with you and your need for pain control.

My husband had a multitude of medical problems and the only way he could be treated adequately and safely was to have one Physician aware of all of his problems and prescribed medications in charge of his treatment.

Well, it was mostly idle curiosity, nothing I'd really want to waste my Dr's time with, but asking the pharmacist is a good idea. Duh, why didn't I think of that?! ;)

Remember that addiction is a very fine line. Having to take "something" for the pain is different than having to take "oxycontin" for the pain and having to take "oxycontin" even if the pain isn't there.

"Rebound" is a odd thing as well. You body can manufacture pain because it wants the medication.

So, what I am saying is that if you can substitute something else, your not addicted. You may however, be dependent.

Always take narcotic medications when pain is present and you should be fine.

Here is an interesting reaction to the drug Fiorinal (Aspirin/Cafeine and a barbituate sedative) from three people:

Person #1. Ate it like candy
Person #2: Slept for 12 hrs
Person #3: Aspirin-like

Person #1 can't have it (addiction potential). Person #2: Can't have due to side effects. Person #3 has taken it over 25 years.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by passmeby

Well, it was mostly idle curiosity, nothing I'd really want to waste my Dr's time with, but asking the pharmacist is a good idea. Duh, why didn't I think of that??!! ;)

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Mu husband was a Doctor of Pharmacy - they are also busy professionals. If this is a matter of "idle curiosity" I would conduct my own search on the Internet.

Of course, some pharmacies are busier than others.

Well, the pharmacy I use is not very busy at most times and they've never had trouble answering any previous questions I've had (that's why I go there). I tried to look the info up at first before I asked the question, but I couldn't find what I was looking for. I did however ask my Dr about the muscle relaxer.

Anyway, I don't even care about the question anymore, I was most interested in getting my other question answered, but unfortunately that didn't happen.

The PDR - Nurse's Drug Handbook - is invaluable if you want to do your own research.

I have it in the house just for when I have a question - it's most informative, easy to read, easy to cross reference.

I believe it's even available in paperback.

I don't think I'd use the book enough to warrant the expense! Thanks for mentioning it though, next time I am looking at books I will look it up!

Sometimes books like these are open at Borders, so you can browse.

I've been hooked to all of the drugs you've mentioned. Hydrocodone, Oxycodone,and Fentanyl.
I've learned to live without taking anything stronger than Ibuprophen. With the help of Suboxone, I am narcotic free. I hurt like hell sometimes, but I am no longer a slave to pills. The pain I am experiencing is not as bad as being an addict, on the roller coaster that I am sure that you're on. Limp in the doctor's office, get your script, skip out. You're never as happy as when you come out of the drug store, then when you have two pills left, 10 days BEFORE it's time to get more... and guess what? The withdrawals you're having will get worse, your addiction will get worse, your life will become a constant search for more. Then what? What is your exit plan?
Your doctor knows the answers to your questions. Why aren't you asking him? Just be careful with what you're doing.

I never said I wasn't looking into alternatives, in fact I have a appt on the 5th to see a Dr about a neuro-stimulator. But for the time being, opioids are my only option. I don't know what the outcome of the appt will be, if my insurance will cover this device, or what. This appt is just a consult, to give me an idea about what this Dr offers and to see about coverage if I am a candidate. It's going gto be months at least before I'd even be able to proceed with implanting the device, should everything work out favorably. So I am still going to need the meds for a while, so why not be on the meds that I prefer? I have NEVER run out of meds before I could renew my script, in fact besides the muscle relaxer, I generally renew scripts well after I actually could. The Fentanyl, of course, I always had to renew on a regular basis as there is no way around that. The patches are worn (in my case) for 72 hrs, so I would be prescribed enough to last 30 days, no more.

But you are correct, I am a slave to pills. I have medical issues that are beyond what motrin could help. There's no way I could lead a productive life without the meds. I have too much responsibility.

You might try accupuncture too.
Sometimes that is best for people that nothing else works

Well, just to let you guys know, I called the Dr's office and once again they didn't listen. I will be finding a new Dr, which stinks because I really liked him :(

Whoever said he was more worried about what the DEA thought vs what the patient thinks got it right on. I'm so upset about this, I hate to lose this Dr.

Well, I have some good news! I was able to work out a solution with my GP regarding the pain meds. He referred me to a pain management specialist so hopefully something good will come of this situation! Bad thing is, I have to go through another MRI :( But at least I get to keep my Dr for basic check-ups and stuff.

I didn't think of pain management.
With pain management they will make you sign a paper saying you agree not to get any pain prescriptions from any doctors other than them and I do believe they drug test you to make sure you aren't taking anything they don't allow on their program.

That's fine with me! I can pass any drug/alcohol test and I don't have a problem adhering to the rules! I'm just so happy that I'm getting to see a specialist, it's a real relief!