How to Beat Hydrocodone Addiction

I happen to work in a drug rehab center so I see an awful lot of Hydrocodone addiction. To be quite honest I believe the number of opiate users we treat is now exceeding the number of alcoholics that come in, if you can believe that. Prescription painkillers seem to be the new drug of choice these days. Is Hydrocodone addictive? You bet it is.

Hydrocodone is a synthetic opiate that is slightly more powerful than Codeine (as measured by the opiate molecules strength in binding to opiate receptors in the human brain). Some of the common brand names for Hydrocodone are Vicodin, Lorcet, Lortab, and Norco. Doctors prescribe it for all sorts of different issues and it tends to work really well for most types of pain. Too well in fact, because many people can and do get addicted to it. This makes for a complicated situation because now you have a drug addiction that is actually there for a specific reason: to medicate a person’s physical pain.

So one of the major questions becomes: if you are trying to overcome Hydrocodone addiction, how are you going to manage your pain? What are you going to do when your body is suffering and in pain?

Managing pain without opiates

It is important to understand the difference between opiate based painkillers and other medications. When you take a medicine such as Ibuprofen, the medicine actually works to help reduce the pain right at the source of the pain. It does this by reducing inflammation and swelling in the body. So it literally goes to the source of your physical pain and makes it smaller.

With an opiate drug (such as Hydrocodone), there is no such reduction in pain. In fact, the medicine does not really reduce pain at all. What it does is it simply dopes the human brain so that it does not care about the pain as much. The pain is still there. But if you are taking Hydrocodone, the effect that the drug has is that it makes it so that you don’t pay as much attention to the pain.

If your pain is a ringing alarm clock with bells, then taking an opiate is like sticking a rag in between the bells. It simply dulls the ringing. It does not reduce the pain itself though.

So if you understand this then you can see how any condition that results in chronic pain should really be treated with something other than an opiate drug. If the physical pain you are experiencing is temporary (or very short term), then taking an opiate might work out pretty well. But if your pain is chronic (or longer lasting), then taking an opiate is not going to help you in the long run.

So if you are trying to get off of an opiate drug, then you need to have a plan for how you are going to manage your pain without using addictive painkillers. You might start experimenting with alternative ways of treating your pain before you even try to get off the opiates, so that you are more prepared in how you will deal with the pain. For example, you might look into some of these ideas for managing pain without addictive drugs:

1) TENS units.

2) Using non-narcotic painkillers (ask your doctor for details).

3) Meditation and relaxation techniques

4) Massage.

5) Acupuncture.

And so on. If you start experimenting right now with these sorts of ideas, your chances at staying clean and sober will increase because you will be better able to handle the pain when you are no longer using opiates. If you are struggling to make progress in this area, you might consider going to a pain clinic or finding a different doctor who is more accommodating.

hydrocodone addiction
Photo by Veeliam

Options for dealing with Vicodin addiction

There are a few different ways that you might treat Vicodin addiction. One thing that you might do is to simply check into a residential rehab center that has a medical detox. This is usually expensive but it might be the best option for most people.

Another form of treatment is to use drug therapy. So an addict might switch to a medication such as Suboxone in order to treat their addiction to Vicodin. Some would argue that this is not much better, as you are still ingesting an opiate based drug. However, the abuse potential of Suboxone is much lower than that of hydrocodone, so this is still a decent option for some people. Most people who have a short term addiction to hydrocodone will not need drug therapy like this, however. But it can be useful for some people who suffer from severe chronic pain issues, as the Suboxone will help treat their chronic pain as well.

Obviously, Vicodin addicts who are dealing with these types of questions will want to speak with a doctor at great length and carefully weigh their options before making any decisions.

Hydrocodone dosage

Typical hydrocodone doses range from taking one per day as needed, all the way up to taking 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours, usually not to exceed 8 tablets in a 24 hour period. Most hydrocodone addicts eventually start consuming more of the drug than these recommended dosages, however. This can become dangerous, too, for people with liver problems, because of the potential for taking too much Acetaminophen as well.

Of course you will want to check with your doctor as to what dose you should be taking in the first place, and you would not want to exceed their recommendation. Anyone who deliberately does so runs the risk of developing dependence from abusing the drug by taking a higher dosage.

Hydrocodone detox

Detoxing from hydrocodone will produce typical opiate withdrawal symptoms, that normally resemble a case of the flu. Sweats and chills, upset stomach (including possible cramps, nausea, or diarrhea), anxiety, tremors, and dilated pupils may all be present during detox. These symptoms can best be treated in a drug rehab center with a synthetic opiate drug called Suboxone. The person can then be tapered off of the Suboxone in a matter of days and experience very little discomfort throughout the entire process.

Some people seeking detox from opiates may look to a newer method called ultra rapid detox. This is where they put you under and then flush your body from all opiates, detoxing you in a matter of hours rather than days. It sounds nice but there are a lot of problems with it at this early stage, and it is prohibitively expensive in many cases. Plus there is no guarantee that the person will stay clean.

Typical hydrocodone addiction symptoms

The symptoms of hydrocodone addiction may include:

1) Abusing the drug, taking more quantity than what is prescribed.

2) Hiding, stealing, or hoarding supply. Keeping amounts taken a secret. Stashing pills.

3) Buying pills off the street or manipulating doctors to get more.

4) Inventing injuries or illnesses to get more supply, deliberately hurting oneself to get more pills.

There are other symptoms as well but basically if you cannot stop taking the drug on your own (and you want to) then that is a strong sign of dependence.

Some signs of hydrocodone addiction

If you suspect someone in your life of being addicted to hydrocodone, then watch for the above symptoms, and also:

1) Lying about how much they have taken or how many pills they have left.

2) Hiding pills or sneaking them around, protecting supply.

3) Nodding off from taking way to much of the drug.

4) Withdrawal symptoms when they don’t have pills left.

5) Obsession on getting more pills, especially when running low on supply.

Hydrocodone withdrawal

As mentioned above, the withdrawal symptoms of hydrocodone will typically resemble the flu. This will generally last from about 3 to 5 days, and sometimes it will stretch out a bit longer than this, depending on the person and also on how much they have been taking and how long they have been abusing opiates. Detox in a drug rehab center can really help the addict to get through the discomfort, because they can treat the withdrawal using medication without allowing the addict to become addicted to the medicine. People who fear becoming addicted to another medication are just using an excuse to avoid getting clean and sober. Drug rehabs do not resort to drug therapy and get addicts hooked on new medicines. This is a bunch of crap. Instead, they taper you down and when you walk out of the door, you do it completely clean and sober, not addicted to anything.

Hydrocodone overdose

It is possible to overdose on Hydrocodone, especially since it is usually (but not always) packaged with Acetaminophen. Of course the opiate itself is a going to depress the nervous system and at some point just the opiate alone would become lethal if enough of it were taken. All opiates carry some risk of overdose and hydrocodone is no different in this regard. Those who are abusing the drug and dependent on it obviously run a greater risk of having this happen.

Hydrocodone side effects

Anyone can experience any number of different side effects when taking just about any medication, but most people who use hydrocodone at normal dosages do not experience any major problems. If you do, obviously, you should talk with your doctor. If you happen to be taking more than the prescribed dosage and are abusing hydrocdone, then the obvious answer is to get some help and stop abusing the drug so that undesired side effects will no longer occur.

Some of these side effects might include:

1) Being nervous or anxious.
2) Getting dizzy.
3) Dry mouth.
4) Heart burn.
5) Sweats.
6) Trouble sleeping.
7) Not eating as much.
8) Feeling weak.

Obviously if you have any adverse effects that are really bothersome, consult your doctor.

Getting through withdrawal

Depending on how much your body is addicted to the Hydrocodone, you may want to go to a treatment center in order to get fully detoxed from the drug. Most drug rehabs that have a medical detox unit will be able to treat your withdrawal symptoms from the Hydrocodone with their own medications. In other words, they will help to make the withdrawal process a lot more comfortable than if you simply went off of the medication cold turkey.

The best way to get through any withdrawal is to sleep through it. Depending on how severe your symptoms are, this may or may not be possible. Also, if you suffer from a great deal of physical pain, this will make it more difficult to sleep when you are going through withdrawal from Hydrocodone. These are the types of factors you will need to consider when deciding if you need to actually go to a drug rehab in order to get off the drug.

Basically, if you have easy access to opiates, and you are going through very heavy withdrawals, then it is going to be almost impossible for you to get off the drug without getting some sort of help. If you try to do so and fail several times, you might want to look into the possibility of going to treatment for it. There is no shame in going to drug rehab. They can help you get through the withdrawals and possibly even help you learn how to start managing your pain.

If you’ve been using narcotics to manage your pain for a long time, or if you just use opiate based drugs for fund and recreation in your life, then it’s going to take quite a large effort in order to become clean and sober and to really make it stick. Like with any addiction, there are at least 2 distinct stages to overcoming Hydrocodone addiction: early recovery and long term recovery.

In early recovery, you are basically focusing on the immediate problem of getting off the pills and learning how to live a life without narcotics again. This stage of recovery can last anywhere from a few months to several months, depending on the person. If you ask for help, get professional treatment of some sort, and start interacting with a strong support system on a regular basis, then you might very well be entering the second phase of your recovery in less than a year. Of course, this is all about action. You have to initiate these positive changes in your life and actually follow through with them in order to establish a successful recovery.

Long term recovery from Hydrocodone addiction

Moving into long term recovery happens naturally as your life gets “back on track.” By now you will have found alternative ways to handle any physical pain, and you will no longer struggle to make it through each day without using drugs. But this does not mean that there is no threat of relapse. There will always be the possibility there to tempt you. The key, therefore, becomes constant vigilance in your life when it comes to putting drugs into your body. You have to adopt a zero tolerance policy when it comes to narcotics and addictive drugs.

Anyone who has successfully kicked an opiate addiction but ends up relapsing over and over again needs to find a new way to live. This is the cycle of addiction and the only way to defeat it is to get clean and sober (physically detox from the drugs) and then find a way to live drug free so that you are satisfied with your life. If you are restless, irritable, discontent, bored, or uninspired then chances are you will end up relapsing eventually. In this case the opiate addict can either follow a program of recovery (such as the 12 step program) or design their own program of recovery and create a new life for themselves. Either way, they need to take action and start living a drug free live of passion and purpose if they want to remain clean in the long run.

If you or someone you know is suffering from Hydrocodone addiction then I would recommend professional help. If you cannot quit on your own and make it last then you need to ask for help. Inpatient treatment or professional counseling are both good starting points. Go into either with an open mind and you can find a new way to live.

Comments (182)

182 comments to “How to Beat Hydrocodone Addiction”

On June 23rd, 2009 at 10:51 am ,
T Grissom Says:

Hi,

My wife has a hydrocodone problem. I have chronic back pain that I occasionally take pain killers for. She has always had a weak spot when it comes to pain killers. The problem has gotten worse a few months ago when she injured her knee. The dr wanted her to go to physical therapy to see if that would help. It hasnt. He recommended surgery, but we found out she is pregnant. Now she cannot get the surgery until after the baby is born, and the knee pain is and will continue to get worse as the pregnancy continues. I have been giving her a couple of pills a day to help the pain. Dr. said the possible side affects of hydrocodone is better than the stress or high blood pressure from the pain. Yesterday, I noticed she had found my pills and had at least 10-20 missing. She cant control herself. Im concerned about the health of the unborn child as much as I am about her. I lost my job 3 months ago so money is a serious issue now also. I’m at a loss…..
On June 23rd, 2009 at 2:48 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi there T. Grisom

That sounds like a real problem, especially with the pregnancy. If I were you I would strongly encourage her to get to a drug rehab center. There they can get her detoxed from the hydrocodone, and they can also possibly direct her to some alternative techniques to help with the pain. Some rehabs will have more information regarding this than others.

I am not a doctor but I am pretty sure Hyrdocodone is not good for the baby……
On July 7th, 2009 at 1:52 am ,
Jim J Says:

My withdrawal log 11 AM June 24:
I am on the 2nd day of one every eight hours. I went ten hours prior to this mornings first pill. Some imodium issue, not bad though.

June 26

Went 9 hours. Very tense this morning. Subsided now after dose.
Also sneezing. About 6 times then light headed.

June 29 tough night sleeping. Every eight hours now. 1PM then bed time tonight. then we go to every 12 hours.

July 1 Went 14 hrs then had one. Next in five hours. General tension, some sneezing, coughing, hot flash on occasion.
July 2nd and 3rd down to last pills
July 4th Had last pill at 1100 hrs walked for 45 mins on unl campus
July 5th slept ok it has been 24 hrs and some sweats and general tension and thats about all. Two slices bread, peanut butter sandwich and salad and no appetite. At 8AM I was frantic to get my last refill. I called doctor and Doctor said wait and exercise. Brenda says why take another when you have gone this far. Indeed God has used her to send me the message and answer my question. Walked 45 min at nature center. Walking is helping slightly.
July 6th
Last night I slept zero hours. I have never been so tense and restless I feel like my body is going to explode from the inside out. Finally I sleep from 1045hrs to about 1415hrs (3.5 hours) the diarrhea is starting. So I rush and buy immodium A-D
I contact the doctor and tell them I have 48 hours behind me and I do not want the last pills filled, which would have been for one a day. I may have offended him by doing it my way. I decided to gain a week. Why take one pill now after going this far to have to just start over. I suggest valium and the nurse asks and P-A Tony, doctor is not comfortable with that. He says to take benadryl. I already started that. It is the allergy med that is the same ingredient as sleep easy pills and I already have those. Again one step ahead.
It is now 3PM my ears ring and I have the loose stools, took two immodium A-D with one bottle of water. I feel mentally alert but tired. I wish I could just sleep all this off. I am going to go lay back down.Watched TV then took another Imodium AD after another bout.
Hour 56 at 7PM tired but not sleepy. Dont feel like doing things, like vacuuming and such even covering the grill sounds like a chore. Some light aches and pains.
Hour 57 hot flash is back intermittent hot to cold. Had bowl of chick noodle soup and took another sleep easey(benadryl)
10:30PM No sleeping, very awake but tired. Making Hot CoCO
Near 1 AM and only 3 hours sleep in two days
On July 7th, 2009 at 8:10 am ,
Patrick Says:

Jim J, hang in there, you are almost out of the woods. Take 50mg of Benadryl every 4 hours if it seems to help you. Use Motrin and Tylenol alternating every 4 hours if you have body aches and pains. You are almost there and it sounds to me like you are just about through the worst of it. If you make it to the next night and can actually sleep through most of it then you will be well out of the woods tomorrow.

If this fails then consider going to detox next time. They can eliminate about 90 percent of the discomfort that you are going through, but of course it is expensive.

Good luck. Thank you for your comment, I am sure it will be useful to many people.
On July 8th, 2009 at 11:37 am ,
Jim J Says:

Update
Hour 57 hot flash is back intermittent hot to cold. Had bowl of chick noodle soup and took another sleep easey(benadryl)
10:30PM No sleeping, very awake but tired. Making Hot CoCO Up till 5:33 AM
July 7th it is 10:33 AM I slept 5 Hours. At 6:50 I herd Brenda’s alarm go off, but must have went back too sleep. No symptoms right mow. Am I out the woods? I mowed the back yard and vacuumed. Why did that seem like such a chore.
July 8th This is day 4 and it is just after midnight. I can not sleep again. I close my eyes and I am tense. So i get up and then I am tired. I guess it is time for late night TV. I never watch TV but read about news on the net.
2:15 AM going to try sleep again.
July 8 I woke up at 8:24 AM very rested. I have no more need for Imodiun AD at this time. It is hour 95 one short of 4 days.
On July 8th, 2009 at 11:43 am ,
Patrick Says:

Jim I think you are out of the woods. Take a long, long walk today and you will sleep good tonight.

Tomorrow you will feel very good indeed. This is so exciting! I am so glad you are clean now……awesome stuff.

Thank you so much for your detailed documentation here. This is seriously useful stuff for anyone who might find it in the future.
On July 8th, 2009 at 2:07 pm ,
Jim J Says:

Thank you. I took everyones advice. I am so happy now. I am going to take the long walk advice and head out on a walk in just a few mins. It is hot out, but a good swet will be good. I posted this here because I know it will be a help to others who have an issue with opiates. My use reached a point where I was taking norco to feel normal, I went to my doctor and told him, and I said I wanted to taper off. I was not able to ever get 7 days on the final 14 pills. So when I quit I was at three pills a day of 10mg. To those of you who are trying, keep trying and you will make it. I did not have any vomiting. I think the benadryl helped with it. I spent hours on the internet looking for information. Some of it was good. This page had the best of them all. Thank you!
On July 10th, 2009 at 8:07 am ,
Jim J Says:

Sleep update:
July 8 I woke up at 8:24 AM very rested. I have no more need for Imodiun AD at this time. It is hour 95 10 AM, one short of 4 days. I went for a 3.5 mile walk we will see if sleep is better tonight.
July 9 minor sleep problem had to take hot bath and it helped relaxing, up numerous times. I would say I had a 4 hour sleep or so but feel rested and energetic. Today I Moved items in 90 degree heat for 5 hours and then had turkey for supper. Hope it helps sleep.
July 10 fell asleep for 15 min at 10:30 PM. Then up three times and 4 hours sleep from 1:30 to 5:30 AM Hours away now from day six and no problems except the sleep!
On July 10th, 2009 at 7:34 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Thanks for another update, Jim….been thinking about you and your experiment. Sounds like things are looking pretty good for you.

Sleep might be an issue for a while. I can remember when I got clean and sober and moved into long term treatment, my sleeping pattern really did not straighten out for a couple of months. I did get sleep here and there, but it was never as consistent as I wanted it to be. These days I sleep very well indeed with no meds at all, mostly due to the fact that:

1) I get up a the same time every single day no matter what.

2) I exercise hard at least 4 days a week (running 6 miles).

3) I quit all caffeine intake completely.

These have proven to be good sleep hygiene habits for me in the long term. I know you are in a more acute stage of recovery though and you just need to get some zzz’s where you can.

At any rate keep us posted and I will be interested to see how long it takes for your sleep to get to a level that you are comfortable with.

Great work so far Jim. Keep it up.
On July 13th, 2009 at 7:04 pm ,
patrick Says:

I was only taking three a day 10/500 when i stoped i felt bad so i cut back to two a day this is my therd day at one and a half can you get addicted with such a low amont patrick
On July 13th, 2009 at 7:11 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi there Patrick

That is strange that you are experiencing withdrawal from what is really a therapeutic dose, but I guess it is possible. I am not a doctor. Maybe you could ask the doctor who prescribed them to you about something non-addictive that might work for you? Good luck….
On July 14th, 2009 at 8:59 am ,
patrick Says:

The last time i got off hydrocodine i was so depreesd that i did not try it again for a year is that normal so this is my 3 day down to one and a quarter last night i could not stop sweating
On July 14th, 2009 at 9:06 am ,
Patrick Says:

Yep that sounds normal Patrick, sweats and chills is a common withdrawal symptom, as is restlessness which will make it harder to sleep. I think you are on the right path, good luck…..
On July 15th, 2009 at 5:00 pm ,
patrick Says:

I have been taken Ambien at night for two years and hydrocadine day time could it be a bad combination i am down to one pain pill a day feeling light headid is that normal
On July 15th, 2009 at 5:14 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Well I am no doctor, but I work in a drug rehab and I’ve never heard anything bad about that particular drug combination. The light headed feeling is not necessarily normal either, but it could be due to typical symptoms of opiate withdrawal too. If you get too out of sorts with the light headed feeling I would either call your doc and see what he thinks or maybe just lie down for a while and take it easy. Did you stop the Ambien too or are you still taking that? I know it can be hard to sleep when you are detoxing from the opiates…..
On July 15th, 2009 at 9:16 pm ,
patrick Says:

No i am still taking Ambien for sleep next will be getting off that
On July 17th, 2009 at 11:09 am ,
patrick Says:

This is my fourth day at one a day i still have flu feelings and so tired is there some thing i could take
On July 17th, 2009 at 9:51 pm ,
Patrick Says:

If you are tired you should sleep, as much as possible. If you can’t sleep here are some meds that you can take for various symptoms:

Tylenol/Ibuprofen for pain. Alternate these every 4 hours. 1000mg of Tylenol, then 4 hours later 800mg of Ibu, and so on.

Benadryl 50mg every 4 hours for anxiety as needed. This might also help out with sleep a bit if that is your goal.

Immodium of you have diarrhea.

Make sure you drink lots of fluids, try to eat 3 squares per day. Try to sleep through what you can. Lots of rest. I would not try to use caffeine or anything else to treat the fatigue, it will just irritate your condition further. Rest up.

These meds are all OTC so follow the labels, consult your doc, etc. No miracles here with this advice I know, but it will help if you follow all of it and just take it real easy.
On July 18th, 2009 at 9:59 am ,
Jim J Says:

Wow what a week. I had sleep, it was with ambian. Caution, you can take too much and not remember. I looked in the bottle of 30 Ambian and it was clear I took more than I should have. I did not remember taking extra. I did have my first good night of sleep last night with no pills. So it was 13 days and sleep has returned. With support I am returning to a “normal” life.
On July 18th, 2009 at 2:07 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi Jim

Yeah you have to be extra careful with a medication like that, I have heard of people having similar issues with Ambien. Good that you are finally leveling off and starting to feel decent again. Good luck with your recovery.
On July 27th, 2009 at 10:46 am ,
patrick Says:

hi Jim
I have been down to one a day for 12 days days do you think i shoud stop taking today patrick
On July 27th, 2009 at 12:14 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Well if you still have a supply then I suppose you could always drop down to half a pill first. Your call. I am no expert but I have seen people cut down to a half and even a quarter pill when coming off of some other opiate medications such as Suboxone for example.

But maybe it is sort of like pulling off a band aid too. Maybe you should just pull the plug on it today and be done with it. Good luck either way Jim, and please let us know how it all turns out.
On July 28th, 2009 at 5:37 pm ,
patrick Says:

taking suboxone is that like cutting down on hydrocodien i have taking nothing today i fill very light headed is that normal do you have a nother hot line for help Patreick
On July 28th, 2009 at 8:36 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi there Patrick

No I don’t have a hotline handy.

Not sure about the light headedness, you might want to call a doc and ask him. If you are simply cutting down on Hydrocodone you may very well get some withdrawal symptoms. Of course the symptoms can vary quite a bit between different people. Hang in there and try to just get rest, if you can. Lay on the couch and watch TV. Or, go take a walk. Distract yourself as best you can.

My favorite strategy has always been to sleep through withdrawal. This is the approach that finally go me through quitting smoking. Now I realize this is not the same as opiate withdrawal, but many would argue that they are both VERY intense.

If you stay up all night, do lots of extra walking, and don’t take any naps, then you can probably sleep a good 14 to 16 hours straight the next night. I am talking about staying awake for a full 36 hours straight with lots of light exercise. This works great if you can fit it into your schedule. Sounds crazy but it works.
On August 2nd, 2009 at 7:59 pm ,
Max Says:

Hi. I stumbled on this page today. Not sure if anybody is still posting, but I thought I would give my story.

I’ve always had an addictive personality ( I am 42 years old now). My parents put me into rehab when I was 17 for marijuana use and hearing that I had tried LSD. I was the youngest person they had ever had at the time in that facility. I felt out of sorts, 1) because I was so young, and 2) all the other patients were alcoholics or coke addicts. I was you and didn’t really relate to their problems. Long story short, I was diagnosed with “Chronic Marijuana Use”. I find this diagnosis laughable now, but again, this was back in 1983.

I stayed clean for about 2 years after that. Funny thing about being an addict, no matter your drug of choice, it will talk to you after you have been so successful so long without it. I remember clearly as yesterday – I was riding my bike a few miles and all of the sudden my brain goes, “its been 2 years – you can surely smoke and control it”. Within a week I was back partying more than I was before. I tried all sorts of pills, coke, binge drinking, ecstacy, LSD, Shrooms…you get the picture. Fast forward a decade and I was drinking daily, smoking daily and taking the occasional pill when I would run across one.

Fast forward to 2003 – I worked with a woman who go the 5/500 Vikes. She would give me one in the morning and I would take it with my coffee. I felt so productive. This lead to me wanting more and seeking out different people to see if they “had a few”. Driving across town to pick up 4 5/500′s??? Crazy! Plus I felt ashamed.

I found how to order on the internet an started with Lortab 7.5. I remember clearly for at least 6 months only taking 1.5 pills every night with a beer or two. I felt relaxed and didn’t feel the need to up the dose. I would get 50, 60, 90 or 120 a month…whatever I could afford at the time. I look back on that and WISH I had all of the money I have spent on this sh*t! I would be rich! After the internet started to dry up I went sporadically without pills for periods and one day they would just pop in my head, and off to the urgent clinic for feigned back pain to get a script.

After I used up all local clinics I started asking friends….and friends of friends. I was ASTONISHED how many people are on this stuff!! My move to NORCO had arrived. Surely I could be happy with 2 pills a night with a drink….and I was for a while. Tolerance grew at that time but never took over 4 10/325′s a night.

2006 I had a bad jet skiing accident and thought I tore my rotator cuff. It hurt BAD for a year. My doctor gave me 7.5/500′s regularly. Her prescription was for no more than 8 a day. I stuck to this.

In 2007 was in a bad accident and it seemed to re aggravate my shoulder and now NECK. Had CT Scans etc…saw a neurologist…and was refereed to a Sports Medicine Dr. He wanted to do surgery immediately. I opted for the Cortisone shot in the arm. This work amazingly for about a month then the pain returned. At this point he was giving me 200 10/325 a month. I scheduled surgery MAINLY to get off these pills! I thought if I had no more pain, I would easily quit those pills. After surgery he gave me 200 more NORCO and 80 PERCOCETS. That month was a blur. I was depressed. I lost my job. I found myself drinking in the morning, noon and night WITH pills. I finally said enough is enough. People who know me either see me as deopressed or crabby. I feel like my personality has changed.

Sidenote: I decided to go cold turkey in 2006. I was up to 7 a days mostly. I was scared of the detox so told my doctor. She offered a tapering schedule lasting 36 days! I didn’t have the discipline, so she gave me Clonidine, Darvocet N and Valium. The first 3 days were hell! Very restless body. Always fidgeting. Not sleeping. A heightened sense of smell. Goose flesh. Burning skin and chills.And of course insomnia! I stoped on a Thursday – went to my doctor to get some comfort meds on Friday and felt crappy on SAT/SUN. I stopped taking the Clonidine after 2 days. It made it impossible to move off the couch. Never so lethargic in my life. By Sunday it was pretty much the same symptoms. Monday was a little better and Tuesday I had a good dinner and felt more nomal than I had in years!!!! I went for a good walk and it felt great. I noticed over the weekend while watching TV when something made me laugh it was almost manic! Not sure if this is normal or not. I spent nights watching bad TV and the sun coming up. This detox lasted 14 days and then I thought I would reward myself with a couple of Vike ES’s. My tollerence was low and I enjoyed the feeling. It took no time to spiral out of control again. I havent been clean more than 30 hours since then.

So, I had surgery May of 2009 and my shoulder has recovered well enough to stop. I was up to 10 – 12 a day at the time. I tried weaning and again I dont have it in me. It seems like it makes you have withdrawals longer as opposed to the “rip the bandaid off” theory.

If people are still reading this I will post my story of going through this. I went from 12 a day to 4 a day for 3 days. Yes, it was a little uncomfy. Today I just said I am going CT and get it over with. I’m on hour 30 with no pills. I just took some immodium and @ klonopin to take the edge off a bit. Sleep is not available yet and that is truly the worst symptom AND the reason I caved before. Before when I went CT – after 2 weeks of sobriety AND no sleep I talked my self into taking a couple to help me sleep….again, out of control it got again.

So, here I am…30 hours into this. Dont feel dreadful, but I dont feel great. I hope my detox is the same length as my last one and by day 4 I will be feeling better. This drug is a death sentence.
On August 2nd, 2009 at 8:11 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi there Max

Thank you for your story and for your detailed account. Yes, people are reading this page still….about 15 to 20 new people every single day. That number will continue to go up as well so you can be sure that your experience has not been in vain, you are helping LOTS of other people by sharing. I do appreciate it.

Now as far as your situation goes, it sounds like you are really giving this thing your all. I doubt I can give you much wisdom. Why not go to treatment though? Maybe that is not available to you, but there they can use Suboxone to get you through the worst of your withdrawal symptoms. They can also give you meds to help you sleep. I know this because I work in a detox unit as a nurse aid and take care of sick opiate patients.

So I guess that is my big question for you: can you possibly go to a rehab? If not, can you research ways to get access or funding to rehab in some way? I think it would really help for someone in your situation…..
On August 2nd, 2009 at 8:32 pm ,
Max Says:

Patrick, thanks for the speedy reply :) Treatment isn’t available to me for several reasons (let me know if you think I am BS’ng myself :)

* I lost my job 2 weeks before my surgery. My COBRA is in jeopardy of not being active. I will find out tomorrow.

* I have a possible job this month and can’t turn down the money.

* I have read about Sub and again think at this point it is better to just rip the bandage off! I really don’t want to prolong this anymore.

Now, what I would be willing to do is try to find a counselor to talk over what makes me choose to ‘space out’ rather than deal with real life!! THAT would be helpful; just having someone to talk to! I know 4-5 days of withdrawal and a couplde of weeks of sleep are only the beginning to slay this monster. The real work comes after the W/D’s are gone. I feel like so much life and money has been wasted. I want to salvage what is left.

I hope another 48 hours will be the worst of it. I have 10 pills let but NO desire to even take one because I am so determined. You might ask why I don’t flush them – well I want to know I made it through even having a backup! I have Ultram that I NEVER take but read that it helps w/d’s. Is this true, or does it just delay them?

Sorry for any typos, but I’m mobile :)
On August 2nd, 2009 at 8:38 pm ,
Patrick Says:

My understanding is that the Ultram would not suffice as a detox drug like Suboxone, but would instead send you off to the races more likely.

Hmmm….I think you should flush the pills. Just my 2 cents, based on failed attempts at quitting smoking. When I finally quit for good, I really tossed all lighters, ashtrays, etc. Fully committed.

So I do not think the Ultram will help. I don’t know if you are BSing about treatment, it sounds like a tough situation to me though. I know it is expensive. We all need money.

No wisdom from me here….if you can’t make it through this, will the new job really fly? Maybe eventually you will need to make a choice, and put your life on hold and get some real help.

Maybe you can find a free help line which would serve your need to chat with someone as well. I have looked online before and I think they still exist…..
On August 2nd, 2009 at 11:35 pm ,
Max Says:

Patrick,

I will look into it. Instead of flushing them, I had a friend call me and is “out” and not feeling so hot. He doesnt want to quit, so I gave them to him. I really could care less if I see another one at this point.

38 hours into. Not feeling great, but I am feeling great about letting this habit go!
On August 3rd, 2009 at 6:35 am ,
Patrick Says:

Sounds like a good solution you got there Max with getting rid of them. Keep us posted on your progress. It sounds to me like you are going to make it.
On August 3rd, 2009 at 10:38 am ,
Max Says:

Thanks for the support Patrick. I made it to hour 42. Funny how that seems like such a short time, but feels like a monumental task! I’ve only slept 4 hours in the last two days – which I hate. I even took some Ambien with no luck. Maybe I can try to squeeze a nap in. I don’t feel too horrible. Not great, but not horrible. I think a lot of this detox is mental and if you go into it unsure about quitting, or thinking how painful it might be, you will make it harder on yourself. I want to feel somewhat crappy to remind me of how I got here and how I do not want to return. Hopefully another couple of days and the clouds will start to part ….although I know sleep will be an issue for a while. I am going to run some errands and try to do some light exercise today. Maybe that will produce a cat nap.

Max
On August 3rd, 2009 at 11:55 am ,
Patrick Says:

Sounds like a solid plan there Max. I appreciate you keeping us updated here so that others can benefit from your experience. Keep it up, I like the idea of you doing some light exercise as I think that will help your body to sleep later on.

I would not suggest reading in bed, but you might read for a while before you go to bed. Combined with the exercise that might help a lot. Wear out the body, then wear out the mind.

Good luck….
On August 4th, 2009 at 4:24 pm ,
Max Says:

74 hours and although I am feeling tired, I am MAKING myself do moderate exercise. I feel so much better afterwords! I slept a solid 4 hours last night and it was long overdue. I must say that is probably the worst of it all; insomnia. I am a true believer now that you cannot quit this stuff until you make up your mind to do so. Every day is getting better.

Patrick – thanks for this forum. I cant tell you how much typing my initial post and having your support helped. I’ve learned to take this minute by minute. You can feel distraught, desperate, depressed etc and it can be overwhelming. Give yourself a minute or two to let it pass….because it does. Live in the moment!
On August 4th, 2009 at 6:28 pm ,
Max Says:

BTW..music is really helping me through this. Thought I would share a song that really hit home yesterday.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDq36YD1ESM
On August 4th, 2009 at 8:28 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Ha! Great song there Max, very interesting for someone going through what you are right now.

Yup, every day gets better and better. Once you are at that point, the trend continues indefinitely. I can honestly say that today is better than yesterday. New stuff, new ideas, creating new connections, things just keep growing in recovery.

Keep on going Max, and keep us posted as to your progress. Sounds like you are really doing pretty good now…..very excited for you.
On August 25th, 2009 at 1:01 pm ,
Amy Says:

i take one maybe two hydrocodone aday, pluse xnax for panic attacks and anxiety, this has been going on for 3 years, i have stoped taking the pain pills before but started back .I can only stop for about two weeks, how do i stop? i need help!
Amy
On August 25th, 2009 at 4:58 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi there Amy

If you can stop for 2 weeks then you are well past the physical withdrawals. Of course if you are still taking the Xanax then that can complicate things too. Be careful of stopping the Xanax cold turkey. That is not recommended.

If you need help getting off either pill then consider going to rehab. You could always try weening yourself down off them by taking smaller and smaller amounts but addicts are generally not real great at doing that successfully. Also, doing so might be dangerous and unreliable with the Xanax. Best to go to rehab. Good luck!
On August 28th, 2009 at 3:14 pm ,
anna Says:

hello all, this is a great site. ive been detoxing for one week. i was taking 15 vics a day! my body still crawls @ times. I can’t sleep lucky to be able to sleep one hour(maybe) I do make myself go walking 2 times a day.. but i still can’t sleep. I’ve taken all the hot showers…music..tried watching tv..i just wannt and need some sleep
On August 28th, 2009 at 6:19 pm ,
andrea Says:

HI,
I have been on lorcet for 10 yers plus soma and ambien I hve decided to quit cold turkey ,I am having withdrawals is there anything that will help me
On August 31st, 2009 at 9:01 pm ,
Stephanie Says:

Hi, I am so ashamed of my self and just need to talk to someone. I am addicted to Oxycodone I take probably at least 3 aday. I am PREGNANT and need someones help to get me off this medication! I am due in about 7 weeks and NO ONE around me knows that I am addicted to this medication. My boyfriend that I love So much has no idea that I have been taking the Oxycodone and Vicodin. And I dont want to tell him I know he would up and leave me!I am really scared and I dont want to loose my baby to a foster family or anything like that I just dont know what to do! Its the hardest thing ! I will take my last pill and say there Im never going to go and buy them again! And what do you know a few hours later I am on the phone calling my “friend” and buying more! who knows how much money I have spent on these things! I need help and dont want to tell my doctor about this as in fear that I will get my baby girl taken away! I am scared of the withdrawal, I dont know what it will mean for my unborn daughter as I will put my self through it if it will not cause any harm to the baby! Please will some one just help me! I cant take it anymore! I just want to stop taking the pills! Im sick of my life on these Pills! I am only 22 and have been taking pills since I was 16! Its like everywhere I go and I am there are people on vicodin and its like everyone is addicted! Its scary and I dont know what to do any more! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE help me!!! I just want it to STOP!!
On August 31st, 2009 at 9:06 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Stephanie – I would bite the bullet and go to rehab. Do anything and everything you can to get yourself some help in rehab.

I don’t know how it is everywhere else, but the experience I have seen with treatment centers is that they go out of their way to try to get a pregnant female the treatment that they need. They put a higher priority on it then on other clients. Take that as a major hint and go get yourself into rehab. It is double important that you do so.
On September 6th, 2009 at 12:42 am ,
MJ Says:

I just wanna offer my support to those of you out there that are making a go for it to get clean. My situation is a 3yr addiction that came upon me by accident during heavy workouts in the gym. Now I know all the withdrawals and how hard they can be. Let me say this though, it does get better. If youre about to kick it, let me just give you some advice as to what to expect and a way to make it easier. After the first 24 hrs you will get the diareeha. Immodium is the key here. Your body and especially your lower half has been in a slow digest mode for a long time. All your senses are going to be extreme for the first 10-14 days. Imagine(in my opinion only) if you will, having a blanket over all your senses and your brain sending extra nerve impulses to them attempting to equalize your body, then all of a sudden you stop and those extra impulses keep coming until your body settles down, and it will. I experienced restless legs(so many times), and believe me, the best thing you can do is to get some kind of sleep aid. The better the sleep aid, the more rest you will get. For me, the worst is the almost uncontrollable sweating and the aches and pains as well as the bloated gaseous and diareeha. Its hell, I know. But let me tell you something. Ive always been a person that had always prided myself on the fact that I didnt do ANY drugs, worked out religiously, and never thought I would fall the way I did for three years. Yes, I know the money you spent. I spent it too. Its a shame, and you feel bad, as do I. But you know, the money didnt bother me as much as the lies I told and the shenigans I pulled on my wife. Im not talking about cheating, Im talking about doing whatever I could to get those dam pills and hurting us financially. So, I made a committment to myself that since I did whatever I could do to get them, now I will do whatever I have to do to repay our selves. Thats just me. One more thing, cause I dont want to seem like Im preaching to ya. Those people or “friends” that supplied you with them knowing your addiction, arent your friends. Friends wouldnt suck you dry and watch you fall and deteriorate. Anyone need to talk, send me an email. Remember, sleep aids, immodium, and as Patrick said fluids and as much rest and all. You will feel like shit for the first 7 days. Once you get to 14 you got it made. These drugs show no mercy. They hurt your kidneys and liver and I sometimes still wakeup with pain there. Dont put it off. Do it now. Take off from work for 3 days minimum. You can do it. Im here on the other side for ya and I promise you it is worth it. ….Mark
On September 7th, 2009 at 7:57 pm ,
Sarah Says:

So here I am trying my best to taper off hydro. It all started when I went through a break up a year and a half ago. I was with the guy for 8 years and he was basically my life. Its ridiculous because I wasn’t really in any “physical” pain, but I was an emotional wreck and unable to cope. I had tried vicodin in the past (but only a few times and didn’t realize how addicting it was) and I recalled how great it made me feel. So I faked a back injury and headed to the doctor. I had no problem getting a script.

The addiction started off slow. I wasn’t even addicted at first. I had a 10 day perscription (40 pills of 5/500 hydros) and that lasted me a few months. I would only take one when I felt extremely sad and that wasn’t everyday. I did notice how incredibly productive I was when I had one. It was almost like whatever I wanted to do at the time I could do it 10 times better on hydrocodone. Looking back, I’m amazed that it took me a few months to finish a bottle of 40 pills. Flash forward to 6 months later and I could finish 40 pills in 5 days…

No I didn’t go back to the Dr to see if I could get a refill. I ended up meeting a guy who became my boyfriend very quickly. I didn’t know it at first, but he had an extremely bad addiction to hydrocodone. He told me he took them recreationally (Liar, he took about 10-12 a day) He made it seem like it was perfectly fine and told me that so many people we know do the same thing. (Turns out it’s actually an epidemic in my town and so many people are hooked its sick) He started giving them to me and soon I was hooked and wanted them all the time. I loved everything about them and was convinced they made my life so much easier and way more enjoyable. I loved taking them at work, I was so productive and it made my work day so much more fun. Then I started taking them for school too. I was so much more focused and motivated on the hydros. I actually got a 4.0 my last semester in college (typically I am 3.0 – 3.5 student). I also felt much more confident in social situations while on the hydros. I could talk to anyone and never get nervous or intimidated like I used to.

Even though my new boyfriend was nothing compared to my ex, and deep down I knew he was going no where in life and was pretty much a scumbag, I didnt mind because I was on the hydros. The first time he ran out and couldnt give me any, I got the flu really bad (or so I thought). I had no idea it was withdrawal until I did research online. I then became completely disgusted with myself and with him for feeding me the pills and acting like everything was cool. Once he got more, I continued taking them because I wasnt able to function without them. Soon I got up to 7 or 8 pills 10/367 per day. I started buying them on my own since I knew about 12 different people in my town that I could get them from consistently.

So after being on the pills everyday for over a year, I finally realized I have a horrible addiction and as much as I’m in love with these pills I know I need to stop. I bought my last 100 pills a month ago and have been tapering off ever since. I broke up with the scumbag boyfriend and deleted all of the drug dealers I know out of my phone. I am now down to 2 and a half pills of 10/367 per day. It hasnt been easy but tapering is working for me. Amazingly, I have the self control to have come this far. My muscles ache, and I have insomnia but I’m going to keep tapering. I am officially breaking up with these pills and ending my love affair. I am scared as hell but I know I can do it. I am disgusted with myself for getting addicted to these in the first place and even more disgusted that I didnt have a valid reason to start taking them.

Any advice will help!
On September 7th, 2009 at 8:32 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Wow Sarah that is a valuable story you just told there. Appreciate the info.

As for advice, it sounds like you are dragging it out a bit longer than necessary with your taper idea, but I might be wrong. It just sounds like you are tapering too slowly and are miserable anyway….so why not rip the band-aid off for real? It sounds like you are down to a point where you can do that now, though I am no expert.

If you find that you cannot get off them completely, I would urge you to go into a drug rehab, as they can help you through the worst part. I know you probably hesitate to do that but it might be what is eventually needed to get you over this last hump. Good luck and thank you so much for sharing with us….
On September 21st, 2009 at 4:29 pm ,
Marie Says:

Hi…wow where to begin…Let’s see I’m an addict, there I said it…I’ve been taking at least 7-10 Lortab 7.5 for almost 3 yrs now b/c of hip surgery…I’ve always had this in my head that I was “beginning” to get addicted, but just didn’t want to admit to it…Now I’ve admitted it…actually I admitted it on 9-19-09 about 11am (or that’s when I took the last that I had)…I’ve had all the “typical” w/d, no vomiting, and so far I’m making thru this without any help…well, I take restoril at night to help me sleep, so I really don’t have issues there, what is bothering me is this absolute lathargic feeling that I have and the feeling like I can’t breath…from what I’ve read this is all normal and the worst of it should be over in about a day or so…..myquestion is am I correct on this? or am I just telling myself the worst is almost over b/c that’s what I wanna hear???
On September 21st, 2009 at 4:52 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi Marie

Yeah you should have a withdrawal that lasts for about 2 to 5 days maybe. Usually the third day is the worst for most people coming off Vicodin, but that is an average. So if you are average, you should start feeling a bit better on the fourth day, and quite a bit better on the fifth day, and so on.

Good luck, hang in there. Anything beats going back to the cycle of madness…..
On September 22nd, 2009 at 7:21 pm ,
Marie Says:

Just wanted to say thanks to EVERYONE who’s posted on this page, It has not only been very informational, but it has also helped, just knowing that their are others out there who’s beat this, and it HAS helped me so much! I’m not by any means thinking that I’m over it all, I KNOW that I have a LONG way to go, but I am well into day 3 and I’m beginning to feel much better!

I’ll be honest, I didn’t think I could do this. I had honestly thought about ways I could get more, but then I come to this page and I thought–ya know, there are others out there who’s went through the same thing and beat it, and I once was a strong, independent woman–so thanks to all of you and your posts because without them I would have never made it through these past few days. So again a HUGE THANK YOU!!!!! And keep up the good work on here and keep me in your prayers I’ve got a long road ahead, but I’m ready for it!!!!
On September 22nd, 2009 at 7:38 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Well that is awesome, Marie! Thanks for coming back and sharing your success with us. Sounds like you are well on your way to recovery.

Stay strong!
On September 23rd, 2009 at 12:56 pm ,
Sweethuntercat Says:

I am trying to quit for the third time this year….. I have had one in the past 15 days….. Have had sleepless nights, hot flashes, cold flashes, and an upset stomach for the past two weeks….. I also get sudden jolts of uneasyness and panic…. how long does this last and can I really do this alone?

Any thoughts anyone….. is this all normal?
On September 23rd, 2009 at 1:03 pm ,
Patrick Says:

@ Sweethuntercat – two weeks is a bit long. Most can detox within 3 to 5 days and be through the worst of it. Maybe a bit off after that but you should be feeling 90 percent better at the end of one week for sure.

2 weeks is not right. I would either go to rehab or talk to a doctor. Usually the 3rd day is the worst and then after that it gets better each day.
On September 24th, 2009 at 3:03 pm ,
Wanna Be Free Says:

Hello Patrick and Everyone,
I have been reading the postings on this site and Patrick and all of you have convinced me to go into rehab. I have been living with this Hydro addiction since 2003 or 04 it’s been so long ive forgotten how many years. I too, have spent all the money, time and lies with, what i call, an accidental addictio to 750mg. hydro and now just use as a “normal” everyday function. My ex would get a script of 90 or I’d buy 90 and it would be gone in 3-4 days. That’s crazy, but I can’t make it without the scary withdrawals. So today is Thursday, Sept. 24, 2009, and I’m proud to say I leave Tues, the 29th, to go into inpatient detox and that is mostly due to the fact that not only am I tired of this lie but in part due to this site and the postings. I have learned that there is life after detox and although I’m just a bit afraid of the unknown and being away from my family for 14 plus days I know I will survive just like all of you did. I want freedom from this drug and all the false hopes and hidden agendas it comes with.
Yes, I’m about to go out and grab a few more to make it until Tuesday morning, not because I want to but because I’m too chicken of the withdrawal symptoms and pain. BUT, I do see the light at the end of the tunnel and Tuesday, Sept 29, 2009, shines brightly for me. I will take all of you with me in my heart, mind, soul and spirit and I will keep a journal of my daily life and post it so maybe someone will be able to get free too.
Thank You All and God Bless
Lisa
On September 24th, 2009 at 3:43 pm ,
Patrick Says:

@ Wanna be free – That sounds exciting, and it sounds like a great plan. Make sure you follow through after leaving treatment. Do what you gotta do. That is a bit different for everyone and it is largely what I explore on this website. But I am excited for you because it all starts with detox, and residential treatment. Such an opportunity for you. Awesome.

God bless Lisa…..anyone else who is struggling, try following her lead and see what an awesome life you can have if you are willing to check into rehab….
On September 27th, 2009 at 3:29 am ,
Wanna Be Free Says:

Hi Patrick and Thank YOU!!!
I was in a rush when I left my last comment, which happens to be the first one I posted here.
Please allow me to add a little background on my situation.
I fell at work and injured my ankle, not broken, but fractured, which the docs in the e.r. informed me fracturing my ankle is worse because had I broken it there would be a better chance of healing properly. So, after several weeks of taking my meds (vicodin 7.5 and ibuprofen 800 mg) as prescribed, I ran out of refills and thought nothing of it. A short couple days later, while at work (customer service rep for “ma bell”, aka phone co.) I noticed I felt HIGHLY STRESSED, more than usual. Now working in a call center for the phone company is a very good paying job, BUT, the stress factor to meet your hourly sales goals isn’t worth the pay.
While on a short 15 min. break one afternoon I had a throbbing migraine and asked one of my co-workers if she had anything for a headache, she gave me two 500 mg. vikes. Once again, I thought nothing of it. Oooohhhh, the thrill I got, plus, I was able to work until lunch without wanting to scream back at a customer. Calm, Cool and Collected, at lunch I ran to the nearest phone and made an appointment with my primary. All of a sudden my “ankle” hurt really bad. Yeah right!!!

Now here I am several years and thousands of dollars later, I AM AN ADDICT. Lucky enough to be a part of the trend that seems to be socially accepted by being “addicted to pain killers”, I am disgusted by my actions and docs that prescribe these pills without an INFORMATIVE AND CAUTIOUS WARNING, I mean afterall, “we” as patients are supposed to trust our doctors decisions. I almost wish there were some sort of class-action lawsuit that could be filed against these doctors, similar to the lawsuits filed against tobacco companies.

As I said in my first posting, I base part of the decision to go into rehab on this website and the postings I’ve read. I’ve done a ton of research and one day I read a posting (from another site) where a lady had gone to her primary physician and confessed she needed help getting off of hydro. The only problem I saw with her story was that the doc prescribed her Xanax and other meds to help her detox at home………Now she needs to detox from the Xanax.

Anyway, I went to my primary and he gave me a phone number to a local substance abuse agency and now here I am, just a couple short days from going to an inpatient rehab facility. Yes, at first, I chose outpatient and the intake worker suggested I reconsider, which I did.

I’m tired of this addiction!!!! I need my money to do more positive things with and although it didn’t take anything tragic like jail-time or something of the sort to force my decision, this drug Vicodin, is very powerful and quickly addictive.

I was an addict before I knew it, I was buying them off the street before I knew it, I was making false doctor appts before I knew it.

I also know something else and that is, I didn’t acknowledge I was an addict until a couple months ago and that’s after years of being stuck in my own, which I thought was a secretive, little world. More of my friends and family noticed I “popped pills” than I paid attention to. I even have one friend who is 67 years young and I admire her so and to the point that once I found out she too was stuck in the (what I call the Vicodin Abyss) I actually felt validated.

Yes, I was afraid to admit to my addiction out loud. I was embarrassed and felt alone. After a couple days of research, I was astonished at the numbers and precentages of those of “us” addicted to vikes, oxy, morphine and just plain opiates in general.

I now have the confidence to face my addiction head-on and no longer feet first. I can now say “we” and “us” instead of “I” and “me”. Yes, being an addict of any kind is dangerous, scary and unhealthy, but once one of us sees that light at the end of the tunnel we must believe and know in our hearts there ARE better days ahead. Whatever your light may be in this life don’t be afraid to let it shine ever so brightly.

Well, thanks once again to Patrick and all of you.

I hope and pray that my story too will be a Blessing to someone out there as many of yours was to me.

Oh yeah, one more thing, I highly suggest to all of you to go out and purchase, rent or download the movie 28 Days, starring Sandra Bullock. I promise that this movie should be an athem of some sort to those of us that are addicts.

Looking forward to being free,
Lisa
On September 28th, 2009 at 6:10 pm ,
Patrick Says:

That is great Lisa….glad you claim your addiction now and know that you are an addict. Making progress….keep us posted on how you are doing. God bless….
On September 28th, 2009 at 10:49 pm ,
Wanna Be Free Says:

Hey Patrick and All of You,

Just a quick update, it’s 10:40 pm, and I check into inpatient rehab tomo morn at 10 am. Well, of course, the night before jitters but that is only because I have only half a pill to wake up with in the morning. Yes, I’m moody as hell and really feel like screaming at the top of my lungs, instead I decided to post and hopefully afterwards be able to force myself to sleep. I’m anxious about checking in tomorrow morning but not in an an anxiety attack type way just more of can’t wait to get there and the night isn’t rolling fast enough for me.

If I remember, I’ll try to post again before I leave in the morning. If not, just know I did go and things will be ok and because of that very optimism and the fact I look too forward to ALL that darn money I’ll be saving and can travel away from home for the holidays WITHOUT having to stock up for a few days.

Chat with you all later and Patrick, THANK YOU!!!!

Lisa
On September 29th, 2009 at 8:07 am ,
Patrick Says:

OK Lisa….good luck. Let us know how it all turns out. Very excited for you!
On October 13th, 2009 at 7:30 am ,
jesse Says:

hey peeps kinda new to this not the painkillers though just the admittin i have a problem trying to detox myself be almost 36 hrs i feel really bad sneezing and running to bath room alot im 21 and already addicted to something sorry if some of this doesnt make any sense havent really slept maybe 2hr of sleep tonight very like sleep sound normal to yall i want to quit my mom and dad call me pill head but guess i deserve that cause i blow alot of money on the dum stuff that now really does not work it just gets me through a day not to mention loss of the perfect girl i wish i could have her back but no i wanted the drugs sorry for the non sense im puttin on here but please if you could post back thank you greatly your post are helpin cause now i know im not the only one who is and was goin through it
On October 13th, 2009 at 8:08 am ,
Patrick Says:

Hi Jesse, that makes perfect sense what you said, we have all been there I think. If you stick it out your sleep will get better and you will also have good relationships in the future too. Hang in there, don’t use no matter what.
On October 13th, 2009 at 8:11 am ,
jesse Says:

thanks patrick it means alot long do the shakes and chills last it feels like i have the flu
On October 13th, 2009 at 8:14 am ,
Patrick Says:

Yes, the flu like symptoms will generally last from 3 to 5 days. Usually day 3 is the worst and it gets better each day from there.

By day 6 you are out of the woods usually. This is just based on what I see in detox where I work…..
On October 13th, 2009 at 8:50 am ,
dubinchauvin Says:

i am on day 3 of cold-turkey it is verry hard especially when i think about the oh so wonderfull pills, no there not wonderfull they will destroy you. well i dunno what to really do anymore i am bord nothing to do dont feel good shits and sneezeing verry irratater but will powered woke up this morning feeling better than i have felt the last 2 days though its only day 3 so things r looking up i also put sleep ait in hydro bottle to try to fool the old thinker seems to have worked a little at a constant war in my head but im gunna win you hear that brain im gunna win
On October 13th, 2009 at 12:05 pm ,
jesse Says:

well im makin it ok tryin to im goin to beat this stupid stuff i just cant stand it i cant sleep try to play games but still think about the small yellow norco dumb pill how can it do such things to our body its just crazy but there are good things that will come from this ill be clean and have money sweet right oh yea mind over matter as they say
On October 14th, 2009 at 3:41 am ,
Anonymous Says:

How can yo help the leg cramps at night ??
On October 14th, 2009 at 12:37 pm ,
Patrick Says:

@Anonymous – if you are having leg cramps, you can’t get much better advice than this page right here. They have a ton of solutions for you, check it out:

http://answers.google.com/answers/threadview/id/707090.html
On October 15th, 2009 at 1:48 am ,
dubinchauvin Says:

patrick pls help ive been over the withdrawls quit oct 10 today is the 15 but i have no entergy what so ever what can i do
On October 15th, 2009 at 1:50 am ,
dubinchauvin Says:

forums and ppl tell me suboxone will restore the entergy but im past the wds and i dont wanna get hooked again
On October 15th, 2009 at 6:45 am ,
Patrick Says:

@ dubinchauvin – if you are past the worst of it then stick it out. No need to get put on Suboxone if you can do without. If you are tired, sleep! You will feel better soon.

Hang in there…..
On October 15th, 2009 at 10:54 am ,
Anonymous Says:

No im trying to quit taking the pills an at night i get really bad leg cramps that wake me up at night with the cold and hot sweats .. The leg cramps have been the worse tho if i could find a way to get over that i would be ok and i was wondering is there something that everyone take for that ?/
On October 19th, 2009 at 3:28 am ,
Wanna Be Free Says:

Hey Patrick,
OK gang, I made it through detox successfully and I am so very excited about not having to take any more vikes…..But Patrick, guess what??? After going through detox and feeling so wonderful I ended up going to the e.r. Friday night….I have an inflammed colon and I have to take tests next week so the docs can see how bad it is. I ended up with an iv drip of morphine and a script for Ultram and antibiotics…LOL, I’m still happy though and I don’t anticipate going back to the vikes in the interim I will stick to the “baby vikes”……Always Lisa
On October 19th, 2009 at 7:59 am ,
Patrick Says:

@ Wanna Be Free – Life always throws a curve ball….be careful with the Ultram, as that is some people’s drug of choice….it is still an opiate even thought it is a synthetic one. Some doctors do not believe it is addictive. They are wrong. So just be careful and good luck to you…..
On October 22nd, 2009 at 3:55 pm ,
Haley Says:

Well hello too all! I have taken 5 vicodins a day for 11 months. I put them down on Sunday so as of now it has been 96 hours since my last pill. The first 2 days were the worst. Leg cramps. insomnia, dirhea, the chills, and no energy. All I can say is today I am still a little groggy but I feel a little better. I have taken Tylenol for aches and pains. Ativan for anxiety, and phenigrin for nausea…I went to the doc on day 2 for iv fluids. Make sure u drink alot to or you will dehydrate. I hope by the end of this week I feel normal. I have suffered a little depresssion but in the situation I am in you would too. Does anyone know when its all flushed a gone?
On October 22nd, 2009 at 8:34 pm ,
Patrick Says:

@ Haley – Well the opiates will generally take about 3 to 5 days…but be careful with that Ativan, that is powerful medication and very addictive as well. But it sounds like you are doing well, hang in there!
On November 3rd, 2009 at 12:13 pm ,
Chris Says:

I have always had an addictive pesonality. Something inside me can’t stand the thought of going through live without a quick fix. Like I’m not comfortable in my own skin. Pain pills have always been my favorite high. At least since my first memory of that high. It was in 1990. I was 21 yrs. old and loved alcohol. So after getting all my wisdom teeth pulled, I stopped to get a six pack and get my prescription of hydrocodone filled. I really didn’t even know that you could get high from them at the time. But the pharmacist asked who the beer was for because he said I couldn’t drink on this medication. If I remember right, back then the warning on the pill bottle said ” Alcohol may intensify the effect of the pills”. That’s the last thing you want to tell an addict! So I went home and took 2 pills and washed them down with a beer. 20 min. later I was on cloud nine and the roller coaster ride began.
Because I could only get them from doctors when I was hurt. I didn’t get very often at all. But when I did get hurt I would always say the pain was worse than it was to get as many as I could, and of course take them with alcohol. I remember using the bathroom at my wife’s cousin’s house several years ago and seeing an almost full bottle of vicodin on the vanity. The date on the bottle was 7 mo. old so oviously they didn’t need them. So I stole them. From then on any time we were at a friend or relitive’s house I looked for left over pills.
About 2 years ago a guy at work gave me 2 tramadol and I was high as hell for about 8 hours. It was great. So I found out how to buy them over the internet and have been using them everyday since until about June of this year when I finally found a “street source” for hydrocodone because I went from 2 tramadol a day to 10 a day. So since then I have worked my way up to a $300 a week habit. I can’t afford it anymore but I work about 27 days a mo. with only 1 or 2 days off at a time. Not enough time to withdrawl. But because it is early in the mo. and the company is making us take next Monday off as a furlow day, if I take this Friday off, I will have 4 days off. It is my only for seeable oppotunity to withdrawl myself. I have been chewing up nine 7.5/750′s every morning and four more after noon.
Today is Tuesday. It is 10:00 a.m. and I am at work. I only chewed up 7 this morning and have about 18 left. I have to work Wed. & Thurs. and have Fri.-Mon. off. Four days. Should I continue to take 7-9 pills aday or start to wean now? Should I save a few to take if my withdrawl gets to bad? I also have around 30 Tylenol 3′s. Will they help when I have aches and pains durning this process? Or will codine just make the process longer? Can someone give me some advice on how to make this as painles as possible and what to expect? Thanks Chris
On November 3rd, 2009 at 3:10 pm ,
Chris Says:

I just re-read my post and I don’t think I sounded like I really want to quit. The truth is I do. I tired of the game. And so is my wife. It is killing us financially, emotionally, and me physically. So I have four days to to do this. Any advice?
On November 3rd, 2009 at 3:18 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi Chris

That is gonna be a tough detox. Taking Tylenol 3 during the process completely negates the process, because they contain another opiate. If you want to get off of opiates then you have to stop putting them in your body. That includes Ceodine.

4 Days is gonna be tough. If I were you I would take absolutely nothing on Thursday. No opiates at all. If you do that then it will get worse on Friday and then peak on Saturday. Sunday will still be tough.

I would take half of what you normally take on Wednesday. Just cut it all in half. Then cold turkey on Thursday. That is the best way to do it with your days off. Gonna be a tough withdrawal though, sounds like. Might be easier than you think though, it all depends.

Anyway good luck. You might consider treatment too, if you can swing it. 3 days in detox would be helpful…..
On November 4th, 2009 at 11:04 am ,
Chris Says:

Thanks Patrick, I took your advice today. I only took half my usual dose. my brain is kind of craving more but I know I can’t give in. Do you think I should buy some imodium AD ahead of time? I have ambien. Is that safe to take? Also, in an earlier post you recomended using Motrin and Tylenol alternating every 4 hours for aches and pains. What doseages? Since I want to do this at home, what else can you tell me about food and water intake, and anything else you think will help? Like a daily schedule…
On November 4th, 2009 at 11:50 am ,
Patrick Says:

I am not sure on the Ambien, but if you do use it make sure to follow your prescription and NOT exceed the dosage.

Motrin is 800mg every 8 hours. But, after 4 hours, you can take a 1,000mg of Tylenol. So you can alternate the 2 every 4 hours. Again, check with your doctor first, and do not exceed the dosages on the bottles.

As for diet, eat normal, stay hydrated. Sip ice water frequently. Sleep as much as possible.
On November 6th, 2009 at 3:24 pm ,
chris Says:

Hi everyone, it is exactly 48 hrs. now and the backs of my legs are aching. The dierrea hasn’t really started yet. Right now I’m sweating. Five min. ago I was freezing. I slept fine last night with ambien. Hope I sleep as well tonight. I’m bored and tired of watching tv. I’v been eating chips and candy. I might regret that. I’ll write more later.
On November 6th, 2009 at 4:04 pm ,
Allie Says:

I have enjoyed so much reading everyone’s post. I am a nurse and have never had an addiction problem. However, my fiance’ does. From my experience in nursing and from what my fiance’ went through–everything ya’ll mentioned in the posts describing the withdrawal process is dead on. It does differ from person to person, but in general, you will experience many of the same symptoms. Thankfully, my fiance’ has been clean for over 6 weeks now. He even quit smoking during the same time he came off the lortabs! He looks great, feels great & is a different person altogether. He’s back to the sweet, wonderful man I feel in love with. He’s in good shape physically–built, works out, but the other night he said something so profound. He told me he finally realized that oblong pill was much, much bigger and stronger than he ever was. How sad and true that statement is! God bless each and every one of you! Good luck!!
On November 6th, 2009 at 9:15 pm ,
Patrick Says:

@ Chris – Don’t count on having all of these symptoms you read about here….different people will experience different symptoms. Don’t over do the Ambien. Keep us posted. I think you can make it.

@ Allie – Thanks for your comments and sharing your experience here. Sounds like your fiance is doing well now.
On November 7th, 2009 at 10:46 am ,
chris Says:

@Allie- Thanks for that sharing your fiance’s story. The relationship between my wife and I has been almost non-exsistant for a long time now. I hope as I learn to live without drugs I can become the sweat, wonderful man that my wife also fell in love with.
Your post brought a few tears to my eyes, but is encouaging. I think I’m just extra emotional right now.

@ Patrick- Thanks for that last post. You are right. I may not experience all the same symtoms I read about. I’m actually feeling much better than I thought I would. I must be honest though. Last night about 5:0clock My leg pain was pretty bad and I was cold and sweaty so I searched all my old hiding spots, found 2 500′s and chewed them up. My symptoms diminshed somewhat. But now I feel like I’m starting all over. And as you know, it’s back to work Tues. I should have just flushed them.
On November 7th, 2009 at 10:52 am ,
Patrick Says:

@ Chris – yes, you are starting all over now. You probably knew that intuitively but now you are going to really learn it on a deep level. Might be part of what had to happen for you to “get” this in the future. Good luck.
On November 8th, 2009 at 6:35 pm ,
chris Says:

Hello,
Well it’s about 4:15 p.m. Sun. Seems like the worst is over. Slept O.K. last night. Woke up around 7:00 this morning. Went out for breakfast and then to church with family. We go to a great church but I’ve been high on something every time for a long time so it really didn’t mater if I went or not. But today was differnt. It felt good to not be high.
Went for a walk with my dog. And now I going to read a bit. I got one more day off work. That’s a great feeling.
On November 8th, 2009 at 6:41 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Sounds good…hang in there Chris. Hopefully you are through the worst of it.
On November 14th, 2009 at 1:56 pm ,
Ellen Says:

I’m not sure if this is the right place to post this but I’m seeking advice on how to approach my husband’s usage. He’s currently out of town and just told me he took some Xanax that was prescribed to me. I didn’t think too much of it until I went to get something out of the bathroom and noticed an empty bottle of hydrocodone that was prescribed to me after my shoulder surgery 6 months ago (which was fairly full since I didn’t take it for too long). He had taken some from this bottle right after my surgery when he had a sore throat and I told him I wasn’t comfortable him doing this. He obviously didn’t concern himself with this too much since the bottle is now empty. I’m not sure if this is an addiction since I don’t know for sure if he is getting some elsewhere and how long ago he finished my prescription. (I know he was prescribed some from his doctor at that same time because of his sore throat and I can’t find that bottle now.) I’m sure he would deny there being a problem anyhow. He has occasional recreational drug use in his past that I know of. I guess I’m just seeking advice on what to say to him, if I should be concerned, and what I should be looking for if anything else. I definitely don’t like knowing he was hiding some things from me and now not feeling I can trust him.
Thank you so much for any help you may have!!
On November 14th, 2009 at 2:02 pm ,
Patrick Says:

I would tread lightly in a situation like this, Ellen. The wrong approach is to jump into a big argument about it where he gets all defensive, don’t you think?

On the other hand, I would keep an eye on things, and be prepared to confront him and ask him about it if you keep seeing more signs. I think if you do eventually confront him, you should do it in a very caring and non-threatening way. Express genuine concern instead of hurling accusations.

It is a tough situation if it continues to escalate, and there may not be much you can do to confront him without him getting defensive. But it might come to that eventually anyway. Good luck and if you need help or support, go to an Al-Anon meeting.
On November 14th, 2009 at 11:27 pm ,
Ellen Says:

Thanks Patrick. I’ll keep my eyes open for more signs. I was also rembering just after my last comment that he does use benadryl daily. He says it’s to help him sleep. I don’t know if this information means anything and if I’m just being suspicious or actually seeing something.

I really appreciate your help.
(and congrats to you on your wonderful blog!)
On November 19th, 2009 at 4:03 am ,
Steve Says:

Hello Everyone,

I have been on hydrocodone 7.5 and 10/500 ( 3 pills a day)for several years. When I run out I have many days where I can’t sleep. My body is anxious to the point I Can’t stay still enough to go to sleep. Sleeping pills just make me sleepy and I’m up miserable. I pace the floors, I go to Walmart at odd hours. It feels hopeless some days and I’m not sure what to do. I am trying other methods to stop taking this medicine but nothing else has worked.
On November 29th, 2009 at 12:50 pm ,
Joe Says:

What can I say except reading everyone’s story is riveting because it is my story. I am hooked on hydro again. I have gone back and forth many times, and each time I go back, it makes getting off that much harder… but I cannot surrender to this disease. I am scared and feel trapped right now. Every time I refill my script, I tell myself it is the last time. It is primarily 7.5/500 I get 60 at a time… and have no need for them. So I have a day off… to myself, and planned on working on some projects. Instead I woke up and decided to address this nagging voice that is telling me nothing is going to get better until I quit this habit. I have lost so much. I began taking recreational drugs in HS. Most pot, but I tried and did anything. LSD, Coke, Meth, Alcohol, Robitussin. I would have these moments of clarity and tell myself I had to quit. I would sometimes be able to stop for a while on sheer will power. I also tried 12 step, but I always came back to it. Then in college, I began having panic attacks. That slowed me down considerably. By this time I was primarily just a pot smoker, but I could no longer enjoy getting high. I began associating the panic attacks to getting high. After College I landed my first real job in the field I wanted to be in, doing what I wanted to do. One day, I had such a serious panic attack at work, I almost went to the ER. Still it wasn’t enough. I very stupidly took LSD on the 4th of July with a friend. It had been years since I took it. I had a panic attack that lasted for hours. I managed to hold on… wait it out. The last straw came one day a few eeks later. I had stopped…. But still had paraphenalia. I for some ridiculous reason thought I would scrape my pipes and smoke the resin. I got another big time panic attack from that high. FINALLY, I threw all of it away and got sober. For the next 5 years I would not touch anything that remotely altered my state in anyway. Including caffiene, cold medicine etc. I still struggled with panic attacks. I rediscovered my faith during this time. I got married. My wife got pregnant, and I had my worst bout of panic attakcs ever. It was like a continuous panic attack that lasted days and days at a time with only brief reprieves. I knew what they were because my doctor had diagnosed me years earlier and put me on an SSRI. At this point I was deathly afraid of taking an SSRI, let alone anything that would change my state. It was a living hell. On top of that I began having toothaches, the result of a car accident I was in as a kid. I needed serious work done on my mouth… but again, was too afraid to go through with it. I went to see cognitive behavioral counselors for my anxiety disorder, and that didn’t work for me. Finally, I very reluctanly began taking SSRI’s again. I also had a prescription for Xanax, which I never touched. After a few weeks, the panic attacks miraculously went away! AND after five years, I took something to alter my state. I took a quater of a xanax. I had re-enrolled in school, contemplating a career change. I didn’t think I would make it, because the panic attacks would hit me at anytime. That day, I felt wonderful. The Xanax allowed me to enjoy the class. I took them all eventually. My Doc, very wisely, would not refill it. Now taking just the SSRI, I was living a pretty “normal” life. I finally enjoyed coffee and Pepsi and all the things I had deprived myself of for so long. I had began eating ibuprofen to deal with my mouth pain. After being free from the anxiety for a while, I finally went in to get surgery on my mouth. There were a series of procedures that needed to get done. Thats when I began taking Vicoden, percocet, Darvocet etc. I didn’t get hooked after the first couple of procedures… I had half full bottles of narcotic pain pills in my medicine cabinet for months and months. It was the last couple that I started taking them and for more than pain. On top of the many other problems I have had all my life, I had been struggling with ADHD. I was disorganized, always losing and forgetting things. Overcommitting myself, and then getting overwhelmed. Everytihing around me was a mess. My office, my house, my car… I could never keep things clean. The pain pills, helped me get my stuff together! I cleaned, Organized and enjoyed doing it! It was such a rewarding feeling… to be high ion these pills, and see how productive and organized I was also. I finished my second round of school with straight A’s. I switched careers. I switched careers, and we had a second child. Over the next few years, I wouod go on and off the pills. I knew I had a problem and was able to kick them a few times. My bouts of sobriety would last months at a time. I bounced in and out of 12 step programs. I help others get sober. I had success at my new job, I was promoted a couple of times. The last time I got sober, I went to my doc to tell on myself about my pain pill addiction. I told him about how they helped me to stay in top of things, and be organized. He was not at all happy with me, and had little tolerance for my addiction. He wrote me a script with instructions to taper, and referred me to a specialist with ADHD. I did taper according to his plan. After trying a ton of medications and different approaches, the doc I was refered to for my ADHD, prescribed adderall. My doc retired, and the specialist quit accepting my insurance, and sent me off with information to find another doctor to work with. Adderall requires one refill at a time, to be written out by a doctor. Somewhere along the way I got hooked up with Tramadol/Ultram. A couple of injuries later, I ended up back on Hydro. My marriage fell apart; I had an affair. There were a lot of circumstances that I don’t want to make excuses for. The fact was and still remains, that everything that has been going wrong the past few years is related to my drug use either directly or indirectly. Even those things that I had no control over… I used Hydro to numb myself from it. Now I am a part time dad of two young boys. My job is intact for now, but it is steadily getting more difficult to deal with. There is a lot to me and my personality, and my flaws… which are too numerous to account for. Nothing has worked for me in the past. My “rock bottom” was panic attacks, which got me sober for 5 years, but ruined my life in ways that I would rather be addicted than to go back to. I am weak in many ways, I am ashamed, I have this secret very few people know about. My divorce is not complete, and I can’t check into a rehab because I can’t afford it.. and I would risk losing my kids. I am still there for them now, and they need me. I am not the best dad in the world, but I take good care of them, cook and clean, do homework with them, do other things with them, take them to school and pick them up. I have half custody for now… I fear if I go into rehab, they will be with their mother all the time, and I don’t think that is the best thing for them. It all goes back to feeling stuck. I get up every day and take 45 mg of adderall (Should only take 30), 20 mg of hydro, and half an SSRI before getting out of bed. I lay in bed for an hour until the drugs kick in and I feel good. Then every 4 hours I take 15 more mgs of hydro up to 4 times a day. I average about 65 mg of hydro per day… and more APAP than I want to think about. I hate myself for being in this position. I can’t figure out a way out. I am thinking one more hard push to quit CT or an extremely aggressive tapering process… and cutting the adderall way down or completely out. I have no idea if it helps with my ADHD or not, because Hydro is in the mix. There is actually a lot more to my story, but I have written pages and pages here, and I doubt it is interesting enough for anyone to read. but if anyone has any adivce, I would love to listen. I am going to post my process here if I attempt to quit. Reading so many other people’s “Logs” has been very inspirational. I am considering the medical option (suboxone?), or Rapid Detox? But think I will most likely try to quit cold turkey again, or self taper. This sucks.
On December 6th, 2009 at 9:32 pm ,
Chris p LV Says:

I searched,”..how to beat hyrocodone addiction and came across this page. I’m sick and tired of being a slave to this pill. It controlls my life. I work lots of hours for a large delivery company, so this is a very buisy month for us. I want to try and do it myself. I have a week vacation in January. I have been taking hydrocodone for abouth 10 years off and on but for the last 2yrs ever day anywhere form 5 to 10 pills a day 10mg. I am every afraid of the withdrawls. I’m going to taper off to 3 pills then to 2 pills then one.Then I’m going to take that week of vaca I got in January and go for it. If I can’t do it then i will look for professional help. I heard of this rapid detox in Florida, gonna look into that and see if I can afford it. I feel it will be my last hope. Wish me luck!!
On December 8th, 2009 at 8:16 am ,
Patrick Says:

@ Joe – thank you for sharing your story, very helpful for many people I am sure. My best advice is to seek help at a traditional drug rehab….I really think that will serve you better than rapid detox or trying to do it yourself.

If you try to self taper and fail, consider treatment. Just my 2 cents.

@ Chris – good luck with the rapid detox. It is very expensive. Look into traditional rehabs first….they are cheaper in most cases and more likely to be covered by insurance. Plus they will help get you off the meds and help you feel fairly comfortable.

No one is totally miserable in detox. It is not that bad, really. Ultra rapid detox is overkill, in my opinion…..
On December 12th, 2009 at 8:36 am ,
beth Says:

hi! The testamonials on this site are great. Real normal people feeling and struggling what they are going through with hydrocodone. We are really wanting more! HUNGRY FOR IT!! The encouragement and the tales of continuing even without complete succsess is help full. Do you have any more? Even old ones? We have T. Grissom June 23, 2009 and forward. I havent found a site that compares to yours and would realy like everything you can give us. Maybe support help to the friends and family of ours who care too. ? Thank you.
On December 29th, 2009 at 4:06 pm ,
J Says:

great website here, makes me feel like I am not alone…I have been on 10/325 mg norco since May of this year. I was prescribed it for back pain, which turned out to be a degenerative disc and a torn/herniated disc in my lower back. At first, the medicine worked great, felt really good and it made the constant pain go away. I kept refilling it and refilling it and refilling it, and never really noticed a problem til about july, thats when I knew this was a problem, I ran out of the medicine and decided to just stop taking it, HUGE MISTAKE! the w/d were so bad, i was taking about 8-10 a day at that time, so bad that I couldn’t eat or sleep, was in constant pain, worse than even before, one minute I was sweating, the next min I was cold as ice, vomiting, cramps everywhere, and the time went by so slow, worst day in my life without a doubt, thats when I opened my eyes and knew I had todo something about it, it was casuing all kinds of problems with my fiancee and myself, i finally had to tell her I needed help and that made me feel a whole lot better, i had been hiding how much i was taking..so i decided to call my doctor and tell him what was going on, here are the signs you know you are addicted, you constantly count how many you have left in the bottle, you cant wake up without taking a pill or two immediately, you start getting moody, you get defensive when asked about them, you start going online for other ways to get it, and you have withdrawals when you are out of them and then start panicking about it, anyways, i called my doctor and started the weaning off process, took 8 a day for 3 days, 6 a day for 5 days, 5 for 3 days, 4 for 3 days, 3 for 3 days, 2 for 3 days and then 1 for 3 days, this worked, i was completely off them in 3 weeks, its slow, but its the best way to do it fairly w/d free, i gave the bottle to my former fiancee, now wife and had her ration them out to me, its best to just admit it when you have a problem, her help and understanding is how i got off them…ofcourse the pain in my back doesnt go away, I relapsed…started taking 2 a day just in the morning at first, cuz thats when the pain is the worst, that became 2 in the am and them 2 in the pm, and you know the rest, i was backk at full force, worst than last time, i was taking about 12 a day again and hating myself for it, wondering how the hell this happened….again…i am weaning off again as we speak and I will never go back, its not worth it, the negatives far outweight the postiives, i was getting back side-effets too the second time, the worst being impotent, i was about to get married and I couldnt even think about sex, it was the last thing on my mind, thats when I had my moment of clarity, and now I know I will never touch them again…i guess the point of my story is that you can stop, weaning off is the best way to do it..and do it slowly, trust me, your body will adapt to the lower dosages, the first week was rough, i would get w/d symptoms every 2 hours, and was trying to space them out at least 4 hours, i expected it though, going from 12 a day to 8 a day was really hard, but I got thourgh it and am down to 5.5 aday, taking a half off every 3 days…if you are alone or hiding your addiction, it will be very difficult to quit, you need a support group and luckily my wife was there for me and she understands how awful these things are, i wonder why i was prescribed the 10mg right away though, why not 5mg, why the strongest? this is prescribed way too loosely, i have a very addictive personality and it think if i was asked anythihg, they may have not prescribed these to me, they hand these out like candy and its wrong…good luck to everybody getting off these, i can see the light at the end of the tunnel and cant wait to be free of their demonic hold!
On January 3rd, 2010 at 7:48 am ,
Tony Says:

I have been on 10mg Norco for 8 years. In Dec 2006 I finally had back surgery. L5/S1 fusion and L4/L5 artificial disc replacement. Big time surgery I know. Anyway I have let the pills get way out of hand. Taking probably 7-10 per day. That may or may not be a lot but it is ruining my life. They are all I think about. I wish every day away just wanting the time for my next pill to come. They are the only thing that makes me feel fantastic and that everything is going to be fine. I know that is the euphoric feeling that traps us all but it is nice. With my wife’s help I have reduced to 4 per day. I have also promised not to doc shop anymore and I won’t. It is tough at 4 per day because all I think about is the next one. It’s like a frog trying to get across an acidic pond with only 4 lilly pads.

So I am at 4 and I don’t know when I can get to 3 or 2. The problem is that my back and feet pain is significant and I can’t find anything else that will address it. I had a caudal epidural injection last month and nothing.

I am glad I found this site. The good is that I can see that I am not alone. The bad is that the levels I am seeing here, I had convinced myself that they were nominal and that I was not taking that many. But reading here I am taking more that most.
On January 6th, 2010 at 11:58 am ,
Patrick Says:

Hi Patrick
I was on this website a few months ago ,I was taking 10,500 hydrocodien about three a day i got off for six weeks then i had some pain problems and my doctor gave me the pills , i am now off on my 4th day but the depression is pretty bad how long dose it take to get out of my body I did not think that taking three a day was that bad Patrick
On January 6th, 2010 at 6:00 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi Patrick

Well if you are on 3 a day that is not bad necessarily, but if you are an addict who used to be hooked on them then even 1 per day will mess you up good. Once you put a little bit of the drug back into your body, then your addiction sort of turns back on. Even a small amount will send you “off to the races.”

This is the nature of addiction. “One is too many, and a thousand is never enough,” etc.

3 to 5 days for all the opiates to clear your body, generally (at which point withdrawal will peak).
On January 10th, 2010 at 5:43 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi Patrick
I am on my 8th day I just do not feel well I thought after six days i would feel better, when you said withdrawell will pick after five days what do you mean thanks Patrick
On January 10th, 2010 at 9:02 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi there Patrick

Yes, generally withdrawal will peak at about the 3 to 5 day mark, but that is only counting from after you took your last opiate. If you have had any opiates at all since then, even just one pill, then you have to start all over.

So it generally takes about 3 to 5 days for most opiates to completely leave your body. At the point when they are all gone, your symptoms will peak (be at their worst, or most intense). Following that, things will slowly get better.

Some opiates take longer to metabolize (like Methadone). Others are faster (like Mexican Brown heroin). There is a range of different half-lives for different opiates.

Plus, individual metabolisms can vary this process too.

Good luck. Hang in there. Sounds like you are through the worst of it.
On January 13th, 2010 at 12:21 pm ,
Chris LV Says:

Back for an update, the last time I was on Dec.8 I believe. Well………… I did it, cold turkey, I’m om day 5 with no serious withdrawals. I did go through the first night of arm and leg pain along with diarrhea and insomnia for the first few days. I have been keeping my mind occupied as well and that seems to be helping. With the support of my wife and family is also a big help. Im goin to start working out to help rid my looks body of the toxins. My future looks brighter and so far 2010 is off to a good start.
Thanks for listening and good luck to all of you who are in the battle… believe in yourself and you will prevail but you really have to want it.
On January 13th, 2010 at 1:00 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Right on, Chris. Sounds to me like you are doing quite well now. Hang in there, don’t slip up now. Start on with the exercise thing, slow but steady. It will help a lot, and kick your endorphins into gear and produce real dopamine in your brain. This has helped me tremendously…..
On January 16th, 2010 at 8:35 am ,
Patrick Says:

Hi Chris
I am on day 13 and you are right you have to really want it to kick it
good luck you are doing well, I am going to a 12 step program it really helps me patrick B
On January 21st, 2010 at 5:09 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Hi Patick
I have been off the pain pills for 20 days but i am always tird is that normal I work out and eat healthy do you have a nother web where people send in there comments thanks Patrick
On January 28th, 2010 at 6:16 pm ,
ChitoXL Says:

My Story goes… Never did Nerco before I broke my leg. I have been on Narco for about 8 month now and I feel like I cant stop. This pain in my leg just won’t go away. But When I’m on one I feel so good. I have stop drinking and Smoking Weed and now I just pop pills. After reading these storys I guess I might have to try to get off these.. Resort back to Drinking… What are the downfalls of taking Narcos? Why are they so bad for you? I’m trying to understand Why..
On January 28th, 2010 at 6:25 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Chito….Norco is an opiate and they are an addictive medication, with all the dangerous and problems that come with any opiate addiction. You can develop tolerance and have other problems that come along with any addiction.

I would take a hard look at trying to quit all drugs and alcohol too. Might need treatment to help you do it…..
On January 28th, 2010 at 6:52 pm ,
ChitoXL Says:

Thanks Patrick, My doctor has already cut me off Norco so it looks like once this bottle I got is done I’m going to be done.. Got like 15 left.. I’m going to try really hard to stop taking them..
On February 24th, 2010 at 10:58 am ,
Dude Says:

I love pain killers
On February 25th, 2010 at 3:23 am ,
WindsorGirl Says:

A clinic doctor put me on Hydrocodone for a sore throat. I didn’t realize there was a problem til one time I was at a job coach session and didn’t have a spoon so I put the bottle (liquid) to my mouth and took a small swig. I felt so tired the whole day and just wanted to sleep. It was after that the problem started. It never occurred to me I had a problem until the bottle was done and I could not sleep any more. I have never had any addiction in my life except smoking and I did not realize the risks as this was just (as far as I knew) a cough suppressant.
On February 25th, 2010 at 7:04 am ,
WindsorGirl Says:

but after being awake for only 6 hrs I am ready for bed again .. and then only sleep 3 hrs and am up again and then tired after 6 hrs again. I can’t function like this! How little of this stuff gets you addicted or can you have withdrawal symptoms without being addicted? Is there any way to go through this on your own cold turkey? What helps with the constant neck and head pain when you take nothing? Is that normal too?
On March 15th, 2010 at 6:37 pm ,
W.E.K Says:

vicodin gives a very nice high, but if you have an addictive personality, with little self control, it can be a real problem. I’ll take a few here and there, but I skip days. If I feel I’m over doing it I totally slow down. You definitely build up a tolerance, and fast. So chilling out with it helps in that regard too. I don’t know why it’s so frowned upon, I know a lot of people who take antidepressants, or Xanax to get through their days, this gives me that nice, warm, happy/fuzzy feeling, without being tired and makes the day go so much smoother. Again it’s really a matter of if you can exhibit self control, because I can totally see how they can be a problem if in the hands of the wrong people. Pop responsibly my friends
On March 17th, 2010 at 5:19 pm ,
cant live like this Says:

i cant go to rehab. need home remedy
On March 17th, 2010 at 5:23 pm ,
Patrick Says:

I wrote about that once:

http://www.spiritualriver.com/how-to-detox-at-home-from-drugs/

Hope that helps!
On March 18th, 2010 at 8:29 pm ,
ginger Says:

i have been taking 80 mgs of hydrocodone for 13 months and my docyor called me in for a pill count,well we had just gotten 7 inches of snow and i couldnt get there…i recieved a letter stating that my meds were disconrinued. no tapering off or nothing..can he do that???
On May 5th, 2010 at 4:08 am ,
Jess Says:

Hi my boyfriend has been abusing hydrocodone for over 4 yrs now! He keeps trying to get off them.. methadone only helps him for about 4 days.. then he’s right back on them… He and I both can’t go on like this! And We don’t want to lose each other over it! I need some kind of advice on how i can help him! We don’t have the money for rehab or to go seek help with a doctor! The amount he takes seems to get higher…. there is not a day that has passed that he hasn’t taken them! I am worried and scared! I really need some help!
On May 5th, 2010 at 3:23 pm ,
Kell Says:

Hello…I have been on hydrocodone for about 1 year now. It started with surgery…than led to other problems such as plantar fachitis and migraines. My dr. had me on hydrocodone 10-325 and I was taking 3-4 a day. The constipation was a huge side effect for me so I took myself off it of 7 days ago. I went through the worst of the flu like symptoms the first 4 days…but I am still nauseated and feeling very depressed, and it takes a lot of effort just to get across the room (like led weights on my legs). Since I’m on day 7…am I anywhere close to feeling human again or should I expect a much longer time? Oh and I asked my family dr…she said I pretty much have to wait it out…and I certainly can’t afford a rehab.
On May 19th, 2010 at 12:21 am ,
Johnny Says:

I just started taking hydrocodones.. Well snorting them actually because it takes a lot less to get high. I would go through school feeling good but after about two hours after snorting a pill everything just irritated the living shit out of me . Ireally wasn’t sure why. I started feeling kind of shakey and sick between highs (because I could only snort between periods) and really felt like I was starting to change. I definately feel like taking them makes everything with my parents easier and that’s why I started taking them in the first place . I have only been using (constantly) for three days . I know it probably sounds sounds rediculous but I think I was starting to get addicted. I am going to go to school tomorrow sober and see how I feel . I’m really glad I read all this on this page because I had no clue what I was even getting in to. If you want me to stay posted just say so in a comment . I don’t want it to look like I’m trying to show off or anything. Thanks for all the help
On May 21st, 2010 at 5:33 pm ,
Persian jade Says:

This narcotic is the biggest mistake I’ve ever made. I have been in this prison for almost six years now and encourage anyone I can not to take this drug unless you know you can excercise self control when taking this drug. Suboxone works great when it comes to withdrawl but if your like me and using suboxone to ease the discomfort when I’m out of this drug it can get worse. I will conquer this demon but as of right now I don’t see it happening.
On May 23rd, 2010 at 5:48 pm ,
Kell Says:

If anyone would like to know (per my last comment)…it took 10 days to come off of the hydrocodone. I had severe flu symptoms, dizzy, fatigued (like weights on my ankles), horrible depression, etc etc. I did the lemon juice and water the last 5 days of feeling awful, also put myself on D vitamins…than lots of rest…than finally I woke up and it was like I never took them before. I had to take them from surgeries, migraines etc…but I had no idea my body was getting addicted to them, almost like I relied on them without realizing it. Now I don’t even think about the hydros, and life is happy again. Good luck everyone…I’m proof that there is life after hydrocodone, and the happy feelings do return!!
On May 24th, 2010 at 9:24 am ,
katiesue Says:

I’ve been taking hydrocodone for 3 years. My first doctor prescribed me a 5mg pill plus a muscle relaxer after my back gave out. I will never forget the first day I took this pill. I could walk, cook, dance and felt no pain. I changed doctors and once I explained my chronic pain my dosage was increased to 10mg six times a day. Shortly after that I took a bad fall from a platform and really injured my back. Ended up in the ER. Nothing broken but the back pain has been present ever since. Then I developed a severe leg problem and had to have surgery. Upon being released to go home my surgeon gave me the same drug KNOWING I was already taking it for chronic arthritis pain and a bad back injury. It was at that point that I truly became addicted. I took my daily dosage PLUS what the surgeon prescribed. The leg surgery was one that left me in so much pain I thought I would die and even the huge amount I was taking only took the edge off.
Now, months later….back to taking my normal dosage, I can’t just take the prescribed dose. I take more, then run out early. Then I hit withdrawl until I can refill the script. It’s an exhausting, endless cycle. Without the medication, the chronic pain I am in is undescribable. I’m not young. My body has failed me on so many levels. Arthritis in every joint. A bad back from the fall. A leg that will never fully heal. A hip eaten up with the arthritis. I’m lost and I’m addicted. My family is worried about this as am I. I never saw this coming. If I knew now what I did 3 years ago I would never have taken that first pill.
To the person who said the doctor called her in for a pill count and then cut her off. THAT doctor is no doctor. That doctor is cruel and heartless and should be reported to the medical board. You don’t get a patient addicted and then drop them. First do no harm. THAT is the oath taken, yet they do, in fact do harm when they write and re-write the scripts and they do it for the perks the pharmacutical companies give them and their office staff. They are slaves to the drug companies and get perks for writing these prescriptions, leaving us, the patients to deal with the pain and expense of withdrawl.
My taking MORE…….I own that. But not ONE of my doctors ever talked with each other. They are all linked to the same computer system and they were all told by ME what I was taking YET….out came the prescription pads for the SAME medication. Thus enhancing my probability to addiction. Now…..I’m at a loss. I think about the pill count, everyday. I run low and get anxious. I can’t sleep. I hurt all over the moment the drug wears off. The back pain alone is enough to cause one to break their teeth from clenching. I don’t want to move…….but not moving hurts also. And not just a hurt but a burning, searing, throbbing hurt like no other, as is the arthritis I have in every joint, especially my hip.
I’m simply at a loss and don’t know what to do….FEAR of not being able to have the drug keeps me from going to rehab. Yet, as long as I take it, I know I’m addicted and will be held captive to this cycle. While at the same time knowing that without this drug….my pain level will be a constant 8,9,10 every single day for the rest of my life.
On May 31st, 2010 at 2:56 am ,
Laura Says:

I ran across this website, while searching addicted to hydrocodone. And I am in shock there are so many others like ME. I have been addicted for three years. And, It is getting worse. I am prescribed almost 200 pills a month. Plus my Boyfriend gets 60 a week. We usually still have to go thru withdrawals about once a month. – He was the one who introduced them to me, As i have degenerative disc disease, Ulcerative colitis, and Herniated disc and pinched nerve. So yeah I’m in pain for sure. I realized how much of my life this little pill gave back to me.- But now years later, thousands of pills later, I am sick of this. Sick of relying on it to be well. I can’t keep appointments, Or stick to things Im supposed to do. – Its horrible now Up to about fifteen pills a day, and If I don’t take my full dosage I’m sick. – It has caused many problems between my bf and I. And I’m just disgusted with this medicine. It is definitley not something that I would suggest or encourage anyone else to get started on, Yeah It gives you this great high at first, and then BOOM, you find yourself living for the pills.- I think that hydrocodone addiction is very under estimated, And – it is such an addictive drug. I have used meth ,cocaine, weed, and I have kicked all of that, But this i just can’t kick alone.- I really reach out and pray for all of those who are in the same boat. We have been taken by this little pill that says “Watson”.
On June 4th, 2010 at 10:41 am ,
Angela Says:

You can all get through it if you just set your mind to it. Yes, you will be in pain when you quit – but you just have to accept that. Sleep it off as much as you can – take Nyquil. It does help. I was lucky enough that the first time I went off – I started feeling really bad after 24 hours but I told myself and kept telling myself I could do this and tried distracting myself as much as possible. I took Nyquil and went to sleep that night at 7 PM and slept through the night. I woke up and didn’t feel that bad. I got over it in 2 days. My boyfriend said I was lucky. I just saw it as I am not an addictive person in the slightest and yet here I was – not myself at all – addicted to this drug. I have never even been addicted to cigarettes. I do not drink. I have no idea why this drug destroys lives but it does. People should never even take one. Doctors should not even prescribe it. It’s not worth it. Unfortunately that same week I ended up in the ER. I was in extreme pain and it was unlike anything I had ever felt before. It turned out to be a ruptured ovarian cyst. The doctor prescribed me Norcos for the pain and there it was back in my hands when I had just quit a couple of days before. I wasn’t even going to take it but the pain was so bad so I took one. One was all it took to get me back in the cycle again. Granted, I only took 3-4 a day – but that is still enough to get someone hooked and go through withdrawals if they stop. My significant other also took them – about 10 or more a day. That didn’t help matters either. Then life got in the way. I couldn’t quit all over again because of work and everything going on in my life that I had to do that if I quit I would be too sick and I wouldn’t be able to manage my life. As soon as I got some time off work I decided I would quit again. Well – I just quit now for the second time. I am on Day 4! Yah me! Yes, I still feel bad. I was only taking 3 a day before I quit and yet my withdrawals this time were way worse than the first time. I am not sure if I psyched myself out this time and didn’t think as positive as I did the first time or if my stomach issues are just making everything worse. Let me tell you though – I feel like these pills changed me. I felt in a fog – tired – less energetic. I didn’t feel like myself at all. It caused fights between me and my boyfriend and I have a feeling it still will because he still takes them. Doctors need to get serious about this and ONLY prescribe them to people with ACTUAL pain. And even then – only prescribe a small amount at a time. So many people who are getting prescribed this medication are selling it to others and getting them addicted. It is a painful, endless cycle. I suggest that NO ONE and I mean NO ONE ever try this drug if they have never been on it. And for those of you who are on it now – you can get through it if you put your mind to it and tell yourself you are stronger than that pill. You have to do it – for you, for your family, and to get your life back. Good luck to everyone….if I can do it, so can you.
On June 4th, 2010 at 10:50 am ,
Angela Says:

Oh and I just wanted to add – the first time I drank a lot of water, ate a lot of fruit, took tylenol as needed, took a Vit B supplement, and took Imodium for the diarrhea. That all seemed to help a lot. Oh and I will add that going through withdrawals I would wake up with a lot of pain in my hands and legs. It felt like growing pains all over again – or like I had ran so much my muscles hurt/ached constantly. Having someone massage your legs, arms,back, etc… helps a lot. I am on Day 4 and I do feel better. My mind feels clearer. I feel more like myself. I am still having some aches here and there and at times my stomach is really hurting but I am taking Ibuprofin and that seems to help. It said to take 1 but I know after taking Vicodin that your tolerance is higher and pills like Ibuprofin and Excedrin don’t work as they used to so I took 2 Ibuprofins as it said on the bottle 2 is okay to take if 1 does not work. Hopefully this will be my last day feeling any aches or pain.
On June 11th, 2010 at 5:54 pm ,
rick Says:

Patrick and whoever runs this site – Thanks for the great site. I have to admit that I’ve been a relatively low dose (2-3 10/500) per day user of Vicodin for over 5 years and had convinced myself that it is not an addiction but something I needed to get me over the periodic depression and sadness and a sense of emptiness and “not good enough” that I feel sometimes. I had decided to stop taking it today and after the decision was scrolling around on net looking for sites and found this one!

The story about the woman who’s boyfriend took 12-15 pills per day is amazing to me – how did he have sex with her? – Vicodin is no good for one’s sex life if you have one – having to time when you are “off” of it so you can “perform.” Nobody seems to talk about it on this site from what I can see. Hey don’t be shy! It must be an issue for guys. Not a way to live. In some ways it has a reverse effect in that it makes you less horny and less motivated to pursue women and relationships – which is a sick situation to be in. And when I had a girlfriend while taking Vic, I could not quite be as spontaneous sexually if I were under the effects of Vic – and that is a drag. I had to plan sex more when I was “off” it. Anyway, I went off it for a year and a half or so sometime in 2008 – I had a relationship at the time and was feeling preety good about things in general – the first few days as you say were really difficult but after a couple of weeks I was pretty much clean. Still plenty of feelings of emptiness and alienation at times (and I’m a super social outgoing person with a real need to connect with people). Don’t know what it was but some emotional void within me made me resume about a year and a half later.

I think the tapering off idea might now be a bad idea for some, but I’m just going cold turkey, which is how I did it last time. It wasn’t a breakup per se – though we had drifted apart – my decision – but the emptiness in my life popped up again and I felt I needed a little boost.

Anyway, the immodium to control the diarrhea is a great idea – I’ll get some today, because this was an issue for me before – I was pooping all the time and my rear end started to hurt! And I’ve been a vegetarian for many years so I already poop a lot anyway with all the fiber running through my system.

Thanks for the great site and thanks to so many people for contributing their stories to it. Of course it is a commercial site with a toll free phone number that probably gives a kickback to the site – but hey that is internet commerce – the site still provides a great function with information. But why the hell they need my email address is ridiculous – so I gave a phony one. That information if none of your business. End of rant.
On June 12th, 2010 at 10:02 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Those are some interesting issues you bring up Rick but I thank you for having the honesty to do it, since no one else does!

You can rant all you like here Rick, I still appreciate your thoughts! And I am glad that you are looking to make some positive changes in your life. Good luck!
On June 14th, 2010 at 1:29 pm ,
Rick Says:

Hey Patrick –

Thanks again for the great site. I appreciate your comments. It is June 14 – Monday and the last 3 days of cold turkey withdrawal from Vicodin have been a difficult adjustment – but I have gotten through it and this morning I woke up feeling much more clear headed. I think I have gotten over the big hump.

I know it will continue to be a struggle but today I am not yearning for the V-buzz like I had been over the previous 3 days. I’m much more clear headed today. I am realizing what many say – that Vicodin must do real strange things to the brain and body that we dont’ really realize. Something gets dulled deep inside when one is taking Vicodin. It is a real trap that is insidious. One good thing that I would recommend is EXERCISE – vigorous exercise – all the time but especially when on is withdrawing from Vicodin. I’ve been doing some serious windsprints on a hill near where I live on my mountain bike – heavy cardio work – as well as some beach running. This has been real helpful. I”ve always been athletic and working out has always been part of my life and it is not like I had to create a new habit – but I would urge everybody to exercise vigorously. Even more vigorously than normal.

Another thing to help you recover is to get your life organized – clean up and organize your life and your papers and your room and your house. I spend the whole weekend doing this – even while in the “throes” of the withdrawal pangs. I’m a packrat and had let my paperwork get all out of control. This was a sign of a deeper depression and feeling of hopelessness I know. But I realized that I”ve got to get things back under control. It feels great to get a handle on my paperwork. I still have a way to go but I”m finally feeling a little more in control. Getting rid of the Vicodin is also a great indication of getting things under control and not being “victimized” by dependence on some outside drug.

Last thing – Patrick I hear that you recommend getting involved with a support group. I tend to shy away from this out of embarrassment or out of denial that I need help (though i really do) – I did a quick internet check and saw some AA stuff but no “narconon” or similar local stuff where I live. I’ll call around – but I personally can’t relate to alcoholics anonymous – or alcoholics in general – and what I perceive to be that scene – perhaps it is all related to substance abuse – but I associate alcoholics anonymous meetings with chain smokers who substitute cigarettes for alcohol addiction – and cigarettes are SO disgusting to me – I can’t relate to anybody to does that to themselves. I am fit and athletic and fanatic about my diet – lots of alcoholics abuse there bodies in so many ways it appears. Sorry but that is my perception. I know this is judgemental but so be it – that is my perception. I’ll look around. But this column so far is my only “support group” because quite frankly I haven’t discussed my Vicodin usage and withdrawal with anybody in person – which I know I should do for my own mental health and personal growth – and in order to really feel supported in my continuing struggle. I’ll make some calls and I’m sure I’ll find something that is perhaps not listed specifically on the internet because connection with others personally who are going through this would be good for me.

Anyway, that is my two cents – got to go – Best regards.
On June 15th, 2010 at 1:54 pm ,
carmen Says:

Hi there O MY GOD!!!! Iam not the only one who’s addicted to hydros iam 22 yrs old I’ve been addicted to them since I was 17 why because I got married and was having problems with my husband and my dad was getting hydros for his back and left he left them in the restroom ever since I haven’t stopped I been taking 4 a day and now iam taking 2 to stop my addiction iam just scared of dying cuz of getting scirrosis liver damage I’ve been going to church and I don’t want to go to hell because of my addiction iam scared and I got my sister addicted with me cuz she would always ask why I was always happy and I told her because of this pills now we share pills and it gives us energy to work and to clean the house and plus it gets us HaPpy but we want to get off the pills we don’t no what to do!?!?
On July 3rd, 2010 at 4:00 am ,
Kel Says:

Hey all of you that think your taking alot. Listen to this. My husband got on Hydrocodone 10/325 almost 3 years ago now. He has chronic back pain and at the time he got on them, I would only take them casually for fun and to feel buzzed. As time went on I started having trouble with my teeth. I had over 6 teeth that needed to be pulled and they hurt all the time. He would give me the pills to help with the pain. Well the more I took, the more I needed. Then I started stealing them from him. We would fight and have all sorts of problems over the pills. His pain Dr. switches him every few months from the Hydro to Oxycodone so he doesn’t build such a tolerance. Well, I would take those too.
About 6 months ago I went to a dr. to get my own script since he was sick and tired of giving me all of his and he was always running out every month because I was always taking them. I do have some joint pain, but I’m 31 years old I don’t need opiates for it. I convinced my Dr. I was in bad pain so I got them. So my Dr prescribed me 90 of the 7.5/500 to take 1 tablet 3 times daily as needed. Well, I’d been taking the 10′s all along so these were nothing. My first script of 90 was gone in about 4 days. I took an average of 20 pills a day until they were gone. I’m a wife, a mother, and also a medical professional. Luckily I’m not so bad that I don’t steal them from my job, which is good, but I’m having such a hard time getting them out of the routine of my life. I need a pill to get up, a pill to go to work, or to get ready to go anywhere!
I recently stayed at a friends house for 3 days and completely detoxed for those days. I didn’t sleep barely at all, but when I came home I felt like a new person. I was ready to get back to my old self and be motivated to live a clean life. Besides no appetite and some aches and pains, I felt really good, but my body was exhausted. My husband had the Oxycodones so my second day home I convinced him to give me just 1/2 so I could rest. Then the next day it was time for my script to be filled. I had my Dr.s office fill them and my plan was to give them to my husband so he could have sum if he needed to take them. Or if I really needed them I would have great self control and take them 1 every 8 hours like they are prescribed. That didn’t even last the day. Before the day was out I’d take almost 5 and was so mad at myself for doing that, that the next day I started taking 2 at a time. Now today I’ve taken over 15 I think…I lost count. I just threw up in the trash can while my kids are sleeping. I don’t have the money to go to rehab and I’m a very strong individual, I don’t know why this is happening to me!!
Before all of this I could take anything receationally and never got addicted. I give him my pills so I won’t eat all of them, but I still hound him or fight with him to get them. I don’t want to leave my family again or go away and I know that I can do this, but even when I’m clean and sober he will be on them for the rest of his life.
Should I just pack up and move away from him? I don’t know how I’ll ever get off of them, when he has them. I love him, but he has mood swings from them too. I’m so scared of what might happen if I keep going like this. If anyone had any advice please help!!! I really need it!
On July 5th, 2010 at 2:15 pm ,
Chris Says:

Kel,
Sounds like we both are in the same boat. Pill popping for me started a few years back when I was at work. A co-worker had given me some percocet 10/500 basically whenever I wanted. Back then it was great cuz being able to take 1 or 2 to get a buzz was great. Well for about a year my tolerance had progressed and I was buying pills from whoever I could. At this point im taking 5-6 pills at one time to get high or feel good. But as this all is going on my girlfriend has gotten into them. Now she has a lot better control than I do with these things, unlike me when I have them they will be gone a short time after. We are constantly fighting over money, the lack of it as well as not having pills. I’ve also tried doctor shopping and just found the same results with everything I would do. I have been getting 120 7.5/325 lortabs a month now for 6 months. Ill have them gone in about 5 days. Thats a joke. I will sit back and view how my life has turned out and its a joke. I can’t do this anymore, but its very hard for me because when I run out and she has them I too will ask her or sometimes just take them from her. I love her, we both need help, but I feel its time to stop the BS. I’m tired of being frantic with making sure that I have pills to entertain my addiction. Its about 24 hours since my last high and at this point I for one really dont see any other choice but to put up with it and try to beat it. I came across this site today looking for tips on managing hydrocodone withdrawels and this site has been super inspiring.
On July 15th, 2010 at 4:30 am ,
Kel Says:

Chris-
I came home over 2 weeks ago after staying at my friends house and detoxing. I actually went for about 4 days with nothing and I felt so good!! I almost felt back to my old self. I think I could have done it really, but it’s the routine I have to break. When you take a pill to do just about anything, you have to start living your life without it being in your routine. I tried so hard to stay off of them, and actually felt really good. I couldn’t really sleep though, about 8 hours total in 3 days. But that was ok, because I had energy. Then I thought I could just take 1 or 1/2 every few hours to see if I could feel anything. That shit doesn’t work! Once you start taking them again, you just start all over again. I got my script again..shouldn’t have done that!! Usually 90 would last me 4 days, but this time only lasted 9. I guess it’s a little better, but still bad!! I’ve been tapering off and doing well with it, until today. A friend had borrowed some of mine and when I ran out, they got theirs filled today and gave me back what they borrowed. Now it’s 3 am, I’m up chain smoking and took 15 10/500mg throughout the day. I’m such an ass!! I’m ganna feel so shitty tomorrow, I’m afraid I won’t wake up!! I’m ganna beat this no matter what though!! I might have a bad day like today, but I only have 5 left now to try and tape off. I’m ganna do this and get my life back! It’s all about “will power”. I used to like to ride bicycle’s when I was a kid. I think I’m going to get one to try and break some of my routine of taking pills. I’ll post stuff on here and let you know how I do. If your having a hard time, let me know. Maybe I can help you. Just knowing your there has helped me. Thanks.
On July 16th, 2010 at 2:17 am ,
Stephanie Says:

Hi,
I have read every post on this site and it has made me just want to get off my story off my chest and to stop taking pills so bad.
My Story- Sorry it’s so long and descriptive. I just have not talk to anyone about it and need to just get it out there.
I am 22 years old and I started taking Hydro’s back in 2007. I was 19, just about to graduate college and just got a good job being a front line cook in a big restaurant. A friend of mine had a few loratabs and we just split a 7.5. I could not believe at the time that there was a pill that can make you feel good by just taking half of it. A couple years before that I smoked weed here and there and one day I just decided to stop, but this led to smoking cigarettes. So I figured this pill was the coolest thing in the world. I ended up taking them for about a year on and off. I would say maybe just 10 a month. Nothing big, just when I partied. I was out of college and in my party phase.
In December 2009 I became pregnant at age 21. I was engaged and so happy. I had a really stressful and hard pregnancy. My baby cut off my right Ureter making my right kidney almost shut down. This caused me to have severe kidney infections and Hydronephrosis, this is when you have bad spasms of your kidneys. I was about 28 weeks when this all started. I started going into the hospital once week because the pain was so bad. The doctor ended up putting me on loratabs. I didn’t think anything of it at the time because I never had any problems taking them before. Well they really didn’t help with the kind of pain I was having. At this time I was sticking to the prescription to a T because I was so worried that it would hurt my baby. I ended up having a kidney stone the size of a pencil eraser. At about 32 weeks my right kidney was completely shut off and I ended up not going pee for 48 hours. The pain was so bad I ended up going into labor. I was admitted to the hospital for five days, on fluids and this drug called nubain which the baby had to be monitored because it is a strong shot that made me feel like I was floating. I was also on shots to make the labor stop that made me shake so bad. I forget the name of them now. They put a stint in my right ureter, which hurt so bad when I had to pee it spasm. I started dilating at 35 weeks. This entire time I was on loratabs 7.5′s and in and out of the hospital every other day. You should see all the hospital bracelets I saved. They ended up removing the stint and took me off the loratabs at 36 weeks so the baby would not be born addicted to them. I still kept going in and out of labor. When I was almost 38 weeks and the baby was measuring about 40 weeks, I begged them to just take her out because I could not stand the pain. They said no. I was so tired of it all. I ended up going into labor at exactly 38 weeks and they told me if it lasted more than an hour they would give me pitocin to speed it up. After only six hours of labor for a first time mom, I ended up having a 8 lbs 2 oz baby girl. I was so happy!
After all that they put me on Loratabs again. I had bad back problems from having back labor so many times when I was pregnant, I had to see a pain specialist. I still had a tone of kidney problems and had more kidney stones after words. At this time I was taking about 5-6 pills a day. I ended up slowly quitting and stayed off of them for about a year.
In September last year I started having bad pains in my right side and found out I had a bad appendix. They put me back on loratabs for about two months and I had my appendix removed. I felt so good at this point. I have a great job, where I make good money, my daughter was one and my fiancée and I were doing ok.
In February this year I was switch to a later shift, 11:30 to 8 pm. I started getting depressed and stressed out more and more at my job. I started having problems in my neck from sitting at the computer at my job and being so stressed out. I also had knots suffocating the nerves in my neck so bad every night when I went home I wanted to cry because I was in so much pain. I ended up going to physical therapy and seeing a pain manager and was once again put on loratabs.
This is when the problems started happening. I started abusing the loratabs. I started on 7.5s and was prescribed 120 for a month. I ended up taking, and sharing them and they were gone in a week. I was shocked. Then I stared trying to find them any way I can. My doctor ended up lowering my dose to 5.5’s and I was taking about 8-10 of them a day. Nothing was helping my neck pain and I became tolerant to the pills so they did not even help.
Recently I have been running out and starting to go through withdrawal and I would find a couple to just make me feel better or to get me by for a few days to stop the withdrawal feeling. I am twice as depressed and I starting to hate work and not wanting to go anymore. My daughter is going to be two next month and it is hard to chase after her feeling the way I do. My fiancée and I are always fighting because I am always stressed and on edge and worrying about work and if I am going to have a pill to calm me down. He also has diabetes and he’s starting to get worse. He hurts everyday because of his diabetic neuropathy. He stays home with the baby and nothing ever gets done in the house. This just adds to the stress even more. I am not trying to blame him though.
I have decided today I want this to stop. I called my doctor and made an appointment for tomorrow to ask for something for my depression and stress and to see if there is something they can give me for the withdrawal. The last time I had a pill was a 10/325 loratab on Tuesday. I came home from work yesterday and called in to work today. I feel so sick and don’t know what to do with myself. I can’t just sleep this feeling away I don’t have time. That’s why I hope my doctor will help me tomorrow and see this as a cry for help. If he doesn’t I’ll just have to get my next script, just so I can make this feeling go away. I am down to 2.5’s on my script and I take about 5 a day. If my regular doctor does not help, I am able to fill my loratab script tomorrow if I need to.
I want to get off of them and be able to just come home and start planning my daughter’s birthday party. Even right now I am shaking, feel light headed and nauseas. I haven’t really at a full meal the last two days because I have no appetite, and I haven’t had a chance to sleep or relax either. I would appreciate if someone could read through my story and please give me some advice if you have any. I will update tomorrow with what happens at the doctors.
Thank you so much
Stephanie
On July 16th, 2010 at 1:38 pm ,
Stephanie Says:

So I went to the doctor and she gave me zoloft but nothing for the withdrawal. She told me to call my pain specialist. So guess what she said. just take another pill if you start feeling withdrawal. I was so upset because why would I take more if I want to get off of them. She is crazy! She will not give me anything for the withdrawal. I am about to go nuts.
I called my regular doctor back and she said she will see what she could do. I know its probably nothing. I have no pills left and I took another day off of work because there is no way I can work like this. I dont know what to do. Please advise…
Stephanie
On July 16th, 2010 at 1:49 pm ,
John M Says:

I had been taking 10.5-40 mg/per day of hydrocodone for the past 2 years. My stash began to run low last week and I was SO tired of trying to make sure I had enough to function for work, after work, hangovers, dates, etc.. So I cut down to half a pill every other day starting last Monday. Wednesday night and Thursday were pure, living HELL. The diarrhea, sweats, aches and sleepless were the worst. I was completely bed ridden on Thursday, unable to even go outside. I kept drinking Gatorade, taking 800 mgs of Ibuprofen every 4 hours, drinking Pepto-Bismol.. occasionally half a xanax and a hit of pot and I feel 90% better today, which is Friday! I still feel groggy and have cravings, but I can face the day and have my energy back! I’m done with that mess, F*CK that evil little white pill. Hopefully by Monday, I’ll be back to my old self without any more dependence. I was reading all of these testimonials in bed yesterday on my phone and that’s really what got me through this. My withdrawls were relatively short, so it depends on the person. Hang in there people, you can do this.. you just have to fight every second, minute, hour and day.. then start working it out of your life completely. Good luck!
On July 16th, 2010 at 5:53 pm ,
Patrick Says:

@ Stephanie – I would try to detox in a drug rehab setting, where they can use medication to ween you down from the opiates (Suboxone).

Your doctor might prescribe this to help you but I sort of do not think they can just give you a little bit. Either you are on it for maintenance or you take it for pain, but I doubt your doc would give you 10 or 20 pills of the stuff. If he did then you could detox yourself by taking decreasing amounts of Suboxone every day. This is best done in rehab under a doctor’s orders, however, based on your specific withdrawal symptoms….

Good luck.
On July 16th, 2010 at 10:17 pm ,
Stephanie Says:

Patrick,
Thanks for the advice, but my doctor does not want to help me. I ended up just sleeping all day and took another pill a lil bit ago. Thats what she told me to do. I just don’t want this feeling or to be on them anymore. I just dont understand her, wanting me to take more when I dont want to. I guess I am going to start looking into rehab hospitals but I just dont want to lose my job if I end up being in rehab for a lil bit. I also hate feeling like this around my 2 year old.
I do feel better now but I know its just the pill talking.
Thanks
Stephanie
On July 20th, 2010 at 11:04 pm ,
Jkk Says:

Hi, I have a pain med addiction i was in denial for the past 6 months or so.. Because i take a small amount everyday i didnt believe it was a big deal or would be hard to quit, i kept telling myself i would stop soon.. My dad was very sick and me and my kids and husband moved in to take care of him, They helped me stay awake to work and take care of him.. well he passed away in april and i found out i was preg in may.. Now I cant stop i usually have a 30 mg pill and take half of it total thru out the day a little here and there.. It is the 1st think i think about when i get up i feel like i wont be able to get up and get anything done or even function if i dont take some.. Please help me im 14 weeks now and i cant imagine hurting my child, i refused to even drink caff. with my other pregnancys now look at me! My husbamd knows i take them “occasionally” like once every three weeks he thinks for my pain but he has no idea i have not gone with out something everyday for over a year and a half!! He is very against me even occasionally taking them i want to tell him but im scared.. Any advice on stoping i want to stop as soon as tomorrow!!But what will i say to my husband? What about work if im so sick?
On July 21st, 2010 at 7:57 pm ,
Patrick Says:

@ JKK – I know honesty is usually the best policy, but if I were in your shoes I think I would go cold turkey and deal as best I could, if you get sick you get sick, it will probably be mild flu-like symptoms. Take a few sick days, whatever. Get through it.

Or get honest, say you need help, you want detox in a rehab. Go check in for a few days. Five days will get you feeling good without anything. Three days will be cutting it close. Just my opinion based on what I have seen working in a detox unit for almost 5 years now and treating opiate addicts every single day…..

Good luck.
On July 23rd, 2010 at 3:35 pm ,
stephanie Says:

well after reading all your comments i know im in for a long 4 days. me and my partner have been addicted to norcos for several years now. when i got pregnant with my son i stopped cold turkey and after i had him i started again for the past 2 years. we get 120 of them a month and they are gone with in 3 days. i love taking them but im tired of taken them. i 3ant to and im going to do this i cant tapper off cuz if i have them i will just take them all so im starting tomorrow i have 3 left and im way determined this time.
On July 24th, 2010 at 7:46 pm ,
Stephanie Says:

Patrick,
I am actually on my 5th day without them. the last time I posted I had a couple left. I ended up getting one suboxone from a friend. I have made one last till today. I have been taking just little bits here and there, only when I felt like I needed a hydro bad. I feel so much better being off of them. I see my pain specialist on the 29th and not sure what she is going to say or do next since my neck pain is the worst it has been since I started seeing her. I think its only because I have stopped taking the hydro’s. Well I will let you know how it goes.
Stephanie
On July 29th, 2010 at 4:12 pm ,
J Says:

Here’s my situation, I have been taking Lortab for about 4 years now. I have had back pain since I was about 20 years old I’m 24 now. I started self medicating taking 2- 7.5 mg a day for about the first 2 years, then I ruptured 2 disks in my back and my doctor put me om 4- 10 mg a day for about 4 months before surgery and 4 months after the surgery. The biggest problem I have is I diddnt quit taking them after he quit prescribing them to me. I have not been out of pain since the surgery and continued taking them even though the pain was minor enough for advil or somthing OTC. I continued taking between 2-4 7.5 mg a day and now I have 3 ruptured disks and one degenerated bulging disk and I am in severe pain and can’t keep myself from taking the damn pills. I have applied for disability( unemployed and no insurance) I am in need of another surgery but will be at the very least 6 months from now. I am at a loss of what to do. I am tired of taking lortab but I am having problems stopping meds. My pain is outweighing my determination to quit taking the meds. Should I continue taking the meds until I get my back fixed or try and deal with the pain and withdrawal?
On August 2nd, 2010 at 12:16 pm ,
Joseph David Says:

Reply to Joe posting #89..

“How are you?”
On August 10th, 2010 at 3:44 am ,
Tego Says:

I am going to read all of these posts and I think I will be inspired to tell you my story.
On August 10th, 2010 at 4:21 am ,
Addicted Professional Says:

This may be the website that saves me from this crazy addiction and in turn saves my life and my career before they start to fall apart. I had my first experience with lortab about 10 years ago after a knee surgery and really liked the way it made me feel, enough that is scared me. I was in college at the time and never really thought about it again. After college I went immediately to my post graduate training and had a very unfortunate illness that almost took my life(…Praise God! I ended up well and back at home, healthy). I was on many medications after this lengthy hospital stay including lortab for pain. It worked great for the pain and I never noticed any euphoria, etc….that is until the pain was gone one day and I decided to take on anyway. I was hooked starting that day..this was over 8 years ago. I didn’t start using them regularly at that time, but I knew if life got to crazy…that would be the drug I would struggle with.

***This is really boring…but I want people to know that this can happen to anyone…I certainly don’t fit the mold I used to have I what I thought a drug abuser looked like. Just some background of who I am, or this is how I am seen: I am the girl next girl. I am cute, I am sweet, even into my 30′s I am still looking pretty good! I am from a small town and married my high school sweetheart. I was valedictorian, went to college, graduated top of my class, went out of state for post graduate training…4 years later finished all training, developed the job I always dreamed of, making more money than I ever thought possible for myself. I married 7 years ago to a wonderful man…my highschool sweetheart. I have two beautiful children, 1 and 2 years old. My family is amazing. I worship God and Jesus, my savior. I go to church every week. My family holds hands a prays at each meal. Get it? That is where the stereotype ends….back to the real stuff..

So after that, the real addiction started during pregnancy with my first child..migraines prompted a prescription for lortab (couldn’t use the imitrex during pregnancy). I had maybe 3 migraines the whole 9 months, but took about 30 lortabs, knowing that at that number no harm would come to my baby. This type of use continued and eventually slowed down, until my next pregnancy, same thing happened again and by the time I delivered my second baby I was taking them up to 1-4 times per week. Afraid that she would withdraw after delivery I continued to take them like that for another month or so (being excreted through my breast milk) before quiting almost completely. Then I quit nursing…for the first time in 4 years my body was my own and I started taking the lortab 5′s maybe 5-6 per week…blah blah blah….escalating to now taking Lortab 10′s up to 12-14 per day. Yikes!! This story got ugly fast. No one knows. I can’t tell ANYONE. I have even injected a few times some other opiod drugs. I finally found someone I work with that I could tell. She was SHOCKED. I told her how I wanted to get off and she agreed to help me. This was about 5 months ago. I am not making a lot of progress, obviously. She can pretty much get unlimited Rx for them, and does, and dispenses them to me…but she will give me extra most times when I ask. I could pretty much get whatever I want as well. I quit for one week about 10 months ago…it wasn’t fun, but wasn’t that bad. The addiction has gotten much worse now. I wake up with withdrawals every morning if I take the last one too early before bed. Don’t ask about my bowels, I used to go 5 times per day…now maybe once per week with laxatives. I am always tired. My job is demanding, but I think I am more tired than that. I don’t have energy to play with my precious children. I take good care of them and watch them play…I want to interact and be a fun mom. My son who is two has even made comments like, “Mom, you gotta take another bubble?” (bubble is our word for medicines.) Reading other comments I think has really motivated me to go for it. I know how to do it. I was trying to do it painfree, but there is always a stash somewhere or a relative who gives me there extras bc they know I get a migraine rarely and are just being nice…always something. Or maybe this week is going to be too stressful to do it, or some other lame excuse. I work about 80 hours per week and don’t have any time to take off to withdraw at home (plus if I am not at work, I am alone mothering two babies…which is just as demanding). I think I am going to go for it. Before I got in bed 5 hours ago I took 3 lortab 10s and 2 -8mg hydromorphones (and couldn’t go to sleep!)…I am going to do a rapid taper to be off by Thursday and make the Thursday morning my last one. Just 3 10mg lortabs on Tuesday, 2 on Wednesday and then one on Thursday. I think I am really going to go for it. I am going to alternate tylenol and motrin every three hours. I am going to enjoy my bowels moving and when it becomes a problem start on immodium. I am going to end each day with a bad of IV fluids (from a good fried who won’t ask questions). I am going to have plenty of coffee and energy drinks on hand and lunesta and ambien for sleep. Maybe this will help, posting this. I know no one will probably read to the end of this post b/c it is long and boring…but I think it will be helpful for me to think someone else is pulling for me and might ask me if I did it. I hope so. Maybe someone else out there is like me and this might help just to know you are not alone.
On August 10th, 2010 at 5:06 pm ,
Ellie Says:

You guys are incredible! I too never thought I would fall into the “addict” category but I’m starting to think I might. I’m not hoarding, and I’m not finding drugs illegally (not that you all are), but I’m not doing “classic” addict behaviors, but I’m starting to think I’ve crossed over to the addicted side. I do medicate for pain but I think it’s become more than just that. I’m still not over-the-top I think I take 4 or 5 a day at MOST but that’s a lot for someone like me who is tiny and affected pretty quickly. I can see the habits of an addict in me and so I’m trying to figure out if I’m an addict or just truly medicating for pain. But you guys give me hope. I’m so inspired by the courage you guys are all showing by making the choice, but quitting and battling it for you. Congrats to you guys!

As for you Addicted Professional, I read the entire post, I’m pulling for you! I wish I had people pulling for me, but I’m not there yet. I haven’t decided to make the change, and that’s the first step. I’m not on as much as you and while I have a prescription that can be refilled, that’s about the amount of access I have, no extra benefits or people helping give me drugs. I would love to see you succeed because it gives me hope that I’d be able to when I made that choice. I really want you to get clean, for you and for your kids. I know I wish I had a reason to quit. Someone who I needed to take care of, or someone who loved me (who I could tell) who wouldn’t be disappointed that I’d gotten addicted, but for me I don’t have enough self-worth right now to fix myself. I don’t have enough people “pulling” for me to whom I can admit what I’ve become. So I’m pulling for you because I can’t for myself (at least not right now). Please keep us updated. I wish the best for you! I admire your courage and strength to try. You can do it!

Have any of you heard of or read “Pill Head” by Joshua Lyon? It’s about a pill addict. It’s really interesting. To me it’s interesting because it’s maybe my small wake up call that I’m more an addict that I thought I was. Maybe that’ll help me stop before it’s too late. Anyway, I’m amazed by those of you who are fighting the addiction and I admire you all for it!

All the best to everyone
On August 11th, 2010 at 7:41 am ,
Addicted Professional Says:

Thanks Ellie! I appreciate the support. I am a tiny little thing also, 5’2″, 100 pounds! Can you believe how much I can tolerate! I can take 50mg of hydrocodone at one time and feel nothing other than normal! Monday night I took some before bed and went until noon yesterday without, I felt pretty crumby with headache and chills and took one at noon and immediately felt normal when it kicked in. I took one last night. So…only two for yesterday and I am going to do the same today!

Ellie…you should try changing your meds around if you really need it for pain, don’t get into the situation I am in…it is so tough…I wish I would have quit before it escalated to where I am now. Do it for yourself. You sound like a strong intelligent woman..you don’t need to do it for anyone but yourself! We could go for it together!!
On August 11th, 2010 at 4:19 pm ,
andie Says:

Well, I have read through all of these sotries. It’s encoraging to me to know I am not the only one who has had these issues. I went to a program for 20 mos. didn’t even smoke. About 3 weeks ago, i got an oxy from an old friend…not really. I have been taking 20-40 mgs. since. I have 14 left andwork full time, go to school fulltime and have 3 teens. I am so disappointed and I know that if I don’t stop now…it’ll get worse. I have had w/d’s so many times. It’s horrible pain and I can’t miss school or work. I know that I have to start going to NA or a support group for addicts. It’s hard to believe that after all the withdrawls, pain, hurting others, and 20 mos. clean I’d ever touch a pill again. Please pray for me. I need to do this and move on. I pray for you all and hope we never touch another pill. It only starts with 1. God bless you all.
On August 11th, 2010 at 6:36 pm ,
Ellie Says:

Addicted Professional,

Wow, you are tiny! You make me seem HUGE! I can’t BELIEVE how much you’ve tolerated! Good for you for yesterday!! That’s incredible!

I know I need to figure something else out for my pain but (like I need to tell anyone this), it happens to work. Without I’m taking Motrin IB ALL day long, or any other otc drug and I haven’t figured out what’s worse, tons of OTC or Vicodin. My life is so out of whack right now, it’s hard to find the courage to quit. I’m tapering off or trying or finishing my fill or whatever, and convincing myself I won’t refill my prescription, but when things get so hard and I want to disappear into the fog (constantly), it’s hard to not refill the script.

Andie, finish your 14 oxy and do what you can to walk away. Hang in there!
On August 11th, 2010 at 10:32 pm ,
Addicted Professional Says:

You can do it Ellie!! Have you been on any other prescription meds? Do you think you might have some underlying depression (some depression meds REALLY work for pain)? Just curious…I want you to have the courage to try to quit I didn’t do as well today, biut I had 2 pills today and plan to take one around midnight….then one in the morning and I am done (i am thinking about have one and really breaking it up to take over the weekend…maybe fullfil the habit of always popping a pill and maybe be enough to have a slightly more gentle withdraw. I AM SO SCARED!! I think I am probably going to fail. I am so weak. I will let yall know how I do tomorrow. Will text from work when the withdrawal starts. Good Luck to all!!
On August 11th, 2010 at 11:01 pm ,
Ellie Says:

Hey AD,

I actually have done depression meds for pain well and depression, they didn’t really work. Here’s what’s wrong with the system, the good pain killers that work but don’t cause addiction cost nearly a hundred dollars, the vicodin, 10. Anyway, small rant. Now it turns out I’m bi-polar. So I’m working with new meds. I’m hoping that maybe part of the addiction will go away when the bi-polar meds start working the right way though I know that’s not what’s causing the addiction. Right now the list of meds I’m on is slightly terrifying, at least for me when I sit down and really think about it. I never expected I’d turn into an addict, mild or otherwise… I really want to stop, I know I need to, but saying it is easier, well you guys know that. I think I just need to get through this period in my life… then again don’t we all say that?

Enough about me though. I’m hoping your weekend goes well. Keep us updated. I really hope it’s painless for you as much as possible. Again, let us know it’s going.

All the best,

Ellie
On August 12th, 2010 at 12:56 am ,
jake Says:

Came across this site, trying to beat my hydro addiction. Since this past saturday, I have been taking suboxen. Just a little crumb! I feel terrible, sweating like crazy, not eating. Light headed a little, stomach was upset, but I took something for that. Today Wed and its been 4 days off terrible flu and sleeping alot. Thinking now just not taking the suboxen, since it was such a little piece. Any comments will help!! Thank You!! Oh yea, working during this as well. Just couple hours a day though!
On August 12th, 2010 at 4:26 pm ,
sarah Says:

Great site and comments. I am currently on day 4 of no Norco.

I’ve had 2 knee surgeries in the past 3 months, second one being open knee for a bone graft. Right after that surgery, I was in so much pain that I am not really sure how much I was taking. Did a combo of Percocet and Norco. Now that I’m walking I’ve cut back from 6 Norco a day in April, to 2 a day last week. Monday was day 1.

No withdrawal symptoms until about 3PM. There was a great comment above that said it felt like your body is going to explode from the inside out. Very cranky and feeling physically drained. Drank a lot of wine just trying to forget about the withdrawal. Restless, nearly sleepless night. Day 2, more of the same. Took some Motrin PM to fall asleep. Day 3 (yesterday), I felt like it was finally starting to pass. Around 11PM, had feelings like hot flashes and became extremely nauseated. No vomiting, but I forced down 2 Motrin PMs and slept. This morning, was actually able to get up at 8AM (typically on Norco, I would wake up around 10). Exploding from the inside out is gone, no hot flashes, but am feeling creepy-crawlie type skin and some body aches.

All in all, I’m glad I didn’t ask for any more from my doctor. I have done Vicodin withdrawals before, but those times I was only on it for a week max. After every detox is over, I feel immensely better and return to being myself. I think everyone who kicks it should be proud of themselves (I know I am) because getting off opiates is hard. Good luck to everyone.

And thanks again for the site.
On August 12th, 2010 at 6:24 pm ,
Izz Says:

I’m not addicted but I have a problem with tabs/ opiates.
My boyfriend is an addict and tries to hide it, he denies taking them if confronted, but buys 20 or so every other day.
I don’t know how to help him. I don’t know how to bring it up or wat to say/do when he clearly won’t admit he had a problem and doesn’t want help.

It’s making me hate him because he’s keeping it from me. But anybody with a set of work g eyes cab see he has a problem. He never has mmoney to do anything and lately he’s always sick.

How do you help someone who doesn’t want help?
On August 16th, 2010 at 2:59 pm ,
Ellie Says:

AP, How was your weekend?

I have been so sick, so I stopped taking anything and everything, except for OTC things to help with being sick. But now that I’m somewhat better, I can’t help but fight the urge to go back to my “normal” pain management things. Since I’ve been throwing up and laying in one spot for about a week, everything hurts. Of course this all sounds like withdrawals but I really was sick and if couldn’t have been withdrawal sick because taking things was making it worse when I was sick. It’s so tough! And so not fair! I want to just take something and be pain-free like I am when I take a vicodin and a soma. But I feel like if I am on “the mend” if I do take something, even though it will take me out of the excruciating pain, I know I won’t be doing myself any favors. Why can’t regular OTC things work like the stupid addictive drugs?? :(

Anyway enough about me. How is everyone else?
On August 19th, 2010 at 11:44 am ,
Michelle Says:

Hi everyone,I know i have A big problem with painkillers I have been taken them since about 2004.I want these things everyday when I open my eyes in the mornings A pain pill is the first thing I’m thinking of.And if I’ve got one or two I’m the happiest person you could ever meet,but if I don’t have any it is hell on my whole family.I am 38 yrs. old I am a wife,And A mother of two wonderful daughters,I stay ashamed of myself all the time but at the same time I’m going to get these damn pills no matter what.I will spend my last dime on these pills and at that time I don’t even care what we may need at home.But,I also have A bigger problem my husband,He actually gave me the first ones I ever took.Until eventually guess what, I take way more than he does.I don’t go to the doctor for them I buy them off of the streets.My god everyone has them and are taken them.I have A big problem and I don’t know what to do about it.My husband takes them as well.If we don’t have any or haven’t had any for A day or so,I’ll get in my head and say I’m not going to take anymore,And by this time I’m usually pretty sick and in really bad shape.And instead of my husband supporting me he will call me such things as an addict.When all in all he takes as many as I do just not as fast.He will ask me whats the problem can’t you live life without A pill But,yet hes doing basically the same thing.If we are without and I don’t say anything about looking for any he will ask me where we can get some pain pills.And of course if I know I’m not going to have to fight to get them,i will go and find them and then when I do,my husband gets mad because I found some.So,please tell me what I should are can do to get over A problem like this.Because if I don’t have them I’m crying and angry with everyone.And then when my children ask me mother,what is wrong my husband will wait for me to leave the room and tell them your mother don’t have any Medication.Which this really hurts my feelings because,I am so ashamed of my girls knowing something like that about their mom it really is disgusting.My children hate all of my friends are so called friends and I don’t blame them.I can be sitting here without on my second day and my phone will ring off the hook.And it will be people wanting pills or selling them,so know matter how hard you try to keep pills off your mind it is impossible.When I don’t have them I say i want to quit but,then I will find some and I’m so happy.and then to top it all off i lost my best friend to pill overdose on Memorial weekend and she left behind three children the youngest only ten.I am so scared of this happening to me and most importantly putting my babies through something like that it’s horrible because,i see first hand of what it has done to my friends children.I have to see this everyday and her youngest son is the one that found his mother.And you would think after going through something like that with your best friends kids and family you would open your eyes and live right.But,I can’t seem to do this.I’ve never had any kind of A addiction and said i never would i used to be the type of person that could do something and never go back to it again.But,I see now that I was wrong.I only wish i knew how to stop taking pain killers.I’m not and never have been in any kind of pain so,it truly is just an addiction with me right.But,I do not have any insurance and honestly I don’t know if I can do this by myself I don’t even know where to begin to start trying other than knowing I’m tired of feeling this way.PLEASE HELP any suggestions.Hydrocodone is the worst thing I’ve ever seen in my entire life.
On August 19th, 2010 at 4:45 pm ,
Michelle Says:

OMG!!!What do I do it has been 4 hours since i wrote and it has been almost 33hrs. since I have taken a pain pill.I feel horrible,I feel like I am going to jump out of my skin,and I can’t even speak clearly.It feels like it is only getting worse by the minute.The craving right now is so strong,I don’t know what to do.I can’t eat I don’t even want to,I feel like I am going to loose control and I don’t even know how to help myself.I could go and get some so,thats why i keep writing because for what ever weird reason it does help somewhat to talk about it.When I start thinking about going to get some my body just trembles because I want to but i know it is not best for me & my family.But,I do only wish I knew how to control it better than what I’m doing.This is going to be one HELL of a long rough journey.HOPE I CAN DO THIS!!!!!!!!
On August 19th, 2010 at 7:58 pm ,
Patrick Says:

@ Michelle – I would suggest the following:

1) If you can, get to rehab, a professional detox is best if you can get it. I realize not everyone has access to this. But it is the best way, in my opinion.

2) Try to sleep through all of it, if possible. I realize many people cannot do so. If not, then just stay up. Go grocery shopping at 4 in the morning. Do whatever you have to do so that you don’t use, and then stay up all day long, and then hopefully you will be able to sleep the next night. Physical activity generally helps most people rather than making it worse. So taking a long walk when you are crawling out of your skin is probably a good thing.

3) Don’t use opiates no matter what. You have come this far, you are through the worst of it, just a little further until you are free from drugs. Call a supportive friend, go take a long walk, but don’t use no matter what.
On August 20th, 2010 at 9:34 am ,
Wayne Says:

Hey All,

I might be able to help some of those people that have a Hydrocodone addiction of 100-150mg a day. I am just starting to feel myself again and after an 8 year long abuse cycle I am confident it is behind me now.
I have somehow been able to hide my problem from my family and friends although I ‘fessed-up’ about 5 years ago to my wife when I lost a dealer contact and would go from euphoria to flu like symptoms every month when my supply would run out. Her reaction was not a good situation. At that point of my life while taking percs I was anything but intoxicated. I was taking them purely not to get sick. I am sure alot of you know where I am coming from. Her thoughts of my addiction was that I was driving around with the kids hallucinating and nodding off at the wheel. For two years after that I was under the microscope to say the least. But as an addict it becomes a primary function to be very crafty and tell an elaborate amount of lies to stay out of trouble.

On to some help… (that worked for me anyways)

Cut ties with doctors and dealers. Fill your last prescription and then tell your doctor the truth. They won’t be filling any more for you and tell your dealer that you are under investigation or being audited. Come up with an excuse that will make them fear calling you. They could care a less about your problem. Your problem is their solution to cash flow issues.
Weaning is a long drawn out process. It may be different for everyone but a cycle of -5mg every three days worked for me. The key to weaning (for me) was to keep a log of when to ingest. I used the timer function on my iphone to set an alarm on when to medicate. It becomes a bit of a psychological process that at some point in the process, and I can’t say when exactly, it wasn’t a problem anymore. It is very important to stick to the schedule and not extend periods and then ‘reward’ yourself with extra meds.
Coming down to the end you will be looking forward to not medicating anymore. No more constipation, no more patting your pocket to check your pills. NO MORE WASTING MONEY. Find something in your life that you can concentrate on that will substitute the natural high you have been shutting out all these years.
When you finally stop taking the meds I think some sort of withdrawl is inevitable. You have some ‘hot restless feet’ loose stool, cramps, sweats and some other nicities to look forward to but try and keep in mind….

TOMORROW WILL BE BETTER THAN YESTERDAY

Each day flies by and before you know it your free and clear. Think of how fast time flew throughout your addiction and remember how fast it will fly through the healing.
Every pill you don’t take will extend your life by an hour. I know I have shortened mine and I hope I have enough time to heal and extend it again. Acetaminophen is a buffer added to most pills on the market. Its there to accentuate pain medication and make sure you don’t overdose on an opiate. But don’t get a false sense of security. Acetaminophen is kicking the ever loving shit out of your LIVER, STOMACH LINING and GI tract. If you are taking more than 5 grams a day over a long period of time you are killing yourself. Good luck to all. If you want some help or someone to converse via email me at dirkdaring@hotmail.com.

Best of Luck
On August 20th, 2010 at 9:42 am ,
michelle Says:

I don’t even know what to say really,I’m really at loss for words anymore.All’s I do know is that this has been the hardest thing I have ever been through in my life.It has almost been 50hrs. for me and it doesn’t seem to be getting any easier at all.I am an emotional wreck and angry with everyone.When does this get any easier,I can barely see to type for crying I’m normally not the type to be feeling sorry for myself,this is just so horrible.I sit and wonder how I ever let myself get here in this shape.And there is no answer for it.I can only Pray that I get through this.I’ve had to do a lot of hard things in my life but this has been by far the hardest thing that I have ever done.I hope and pray to GOD that I Win this battle,And maybe I can help someone else because,I have been there and it is crazy to feel like this over a damn pill.Thanks for your support Patrick,I don’t think I could this if I had not have found this web site.It really has helped me.
On August 20th, 2010 at 2:32 pm ,
michelle Says:

Well,I am almost 55hrs. into this I am feeling much better than I was this morning.I actually got up and have gotten my house spot less.I still have not been able to eat anything,I have not eaten a single bite of food in 2 days.I am starving but,I can’t even stand the thought of putting any food in my mouth.I just have no appetite.I’m still a real jumpy and my speech is not good.But all in all I am feeling some what better.I just hope it last.This is Friday night and the weekend is always harder for me because,everyone that comes around has hydro’s.Talking helps me so much that’s why i am on here,so i don’t know about this because if my husband sees me talking about it he tells me that I’m crazy that there is no way that helps so,i probably won’t be able to get on here much this weekend unless it’s when my husband leaves for something.I do really hope I pull through this weekend I will be so proud of myself because,I know if I can make it this whole weekend then I’ve got this beat.I’ve got A horrible migraine I have taken some Tylenol hasn’t seemed to help but I refuse to go and get anything stronger.I am going to try to get back on here before my family gets home just for little bit of sanity.It really helps to communicate with people that are going through the same thing and that is not judging you.THANKS to every one that is listening,I only hope that I can be A great help to someone one day. I can’t wait till I feel normal sober again.I don’t even know what that feels like anymore but,I can’t wait to find out.My oldest daughter will be leaving for college next year she will be graduating this year and I want nothing more but, to especially be sober for that.I can not wait to able to say I have recovered,And feeling better by myself without A hydro.I truly do wish everyone going through this the best of luck and i will be praying for everyone including myself….
On August 20th, 2010 at 4:00 pm ,
Patrick Says:

@ Michelle – awesome progress….you are definitely through the worst of it now! Now hold on to your sobriety with all your might….treat Hydro like the poison that it is. Just one pill will send you back to the races. You have come too far now to go back to that.

Keep us posted….
On August 20th, 2010 at 5:20 pm ,
Wayne Says:

@Michelle

You are at the worst part. Everything you are going through is the hydro trying to draw you back in to that vicious cycle. Keep your nose to the grindstone and bear these few painful days and then reap the fruit of your hard work. If you think you might cave or just need some relief go for a walk and remember that one pill will make the suffering you have endured a complete waste. Sobriety is your new life and once this is over the pride you will have inside by accomplishing what seemed such a monumental task will beam through and you will become the person you used to be.
This morning in my truck on the way to work I think it hit me that I can do this. I screamed YES in elation inam no longer under control. It is me that is IN control and tomorrow will be better than yesterday. Good luck and you can do it.
On August 20th, 2010 at 5:26 pm ,
michelle Says:

I’m doing okay not as good as earlier.I’m a little emotional again and I really hate that feeling.i only hope it ends soon.Although i am no where near the shape I was this morning…Thank god i hate that feeling,Hey but,i did finally eat a little.But i am going to go maybe I can come back later..Thanks Patrick For listening to all of our horrible problems…Surely it’s gonna get better.i will continue to keep fighting.
On August 20th, 2010 at 6:20 pm ,
michelle Says:

Thanks Wayne,for being a good listener I just hope I keep making it even this well as hard as it is.But,thanks for listening.i’ll talk to you later.
On August 21st, 2010 at 2:41 am ,
Addicted Professional Says:

I haven’t written in a while. My plan was to stop last Thursday and as has become my habit, I didn’t make it. My girl who has been giving me my pills only when it is time to take them went on vacation and left me what was left of our current supply…of course I took all 20 in about 4 days, I had been only on about 2-3 per day getting ready to quit. I had 1/2 pill left on Thursday morning at 7am so I am about 42 hours out. I didn’t start to feel bad until about noon that day, but I was busy busy at work and just pushed through. I got home to my darling babies and husband and was so out of it I slept through dinner but was able to bathe and rock my babies to sleep. I had been taking motrin and tylenol around the clock. Today was much worse. I was again very busy at work and could hardly muster up the strength to make it around my business…on my feet about 10 hours plus per day. I had about 4 shots of toradol and it didn’t even touch my pounding headache. I have had a low grade temp up to 100 and chills all day. I feel like my skin is crawling. It hurts to take a drink or bite of anything b/c it feels like my salivary glands are secreting acid. I have had 2 crackers and a drink of chocolate milk in the past two days. I just woke up from laying on the bathroom floor for the past 4 hours and crawled in bed but couldn’t go to sleep. Last night I took an Ambien and slept, tonight it is so late and my kids get up early so I can’t really take much. I did take 1/2 a benadryl and waiting for it to kick in. I feel quite a bit better right now…I doubt it will be this way in the morning. I have wanted some all day…if there was anyway I could have gotten some…I probably would have. Okay…I am going back to bed to try to sleep. I think I am going to pretend to have a stomach bug this weekend and see if my mom will help with my kids b/c my husband is leaving town. I don’t think I will have the energy to be a good mom…that makes me feel like such a loser. Tonight I developed a migraine and wanted so bad to go see the doctor and get a shot of demerol, etc. I didn’t, I pray I won’t tomorrow…I know it might get better after this. I need to be a better mom for my babies. Wishing everyone luck.
On August 21st, 2010 at 2:47 am ,
Addicted Professional Says:

Ellie….how are you doing??? I am pulling for you.
On August 21st, 2010 at 11:17 am ,
Wayne Says:

@ addicted professional

There is an easy way to justify your valid concerns of what you claim to be poor mother habits. Try and look at it this way. A week or two of being short and miserable is a pretty small price to pay for being a sober and clean mom that can finally enjoy life as how it should be.
I am on day eight clean and sober. It did not come without pain and sacrifice. My addiction at it’s height over eight years was roughly 100-120mg a day of hydrocodone. At certain times I could get it as low as 50mg but the cycle would eventually get me back up to 120. I am almost back to normal. Each day gets better then the last and I am looking forward milestones of a month, a year, 5 years and more. My biggest worry at this point is getting Sick as a result of damage I have already done. I can’t really do anything about it now but at the very least I will have the satisfaction I beat this under my own free will.
8 days and the sweats and chills are completely gone other than a hot flash now and again. I am still very low on energy but I am getting bursts of it here and there. I even went on a bike ride last night with my 9 year old.
Its somewhat rewarding to be able to tell the truth on this forum. I am more truthful to complete strangers then to my immediate family. With a huge relief I can now bury those lies in the past. There is always going to be guilt about the money I spent (at least the value of a used cesna) and time I have cut short of my life but I have to look forward to what I hve extended and now can start accumulating again. I am fortunate enough to be self employed but taking the first few days off and some early afternoons came a small cost to my employees and clients.
I still get hot feet at night. I could have went for a cold pack last night it got so bad. Lol.
On August 21st, 2010 at 4:55 pm ,
Michelle Says:

hey everyone I hope everyone is doing okay today.I seem to be doing a whole lot better today,when I first got up i had to fight back the depression of it but,I did and I’m okay for now.I still want them but, nothing like I did just knowing what i went through the past couple of days is enough to know I will never go through that again.That is pure HELL…I’m still a little jumpy but,that’s getting better also.My speech is a lot better,not being able to talk is really embarrassing.To you mothers out there I really know what your going through because,i have felt like such a failure in that prospective to.My daughters are older i have one that is 17yrs.and one 15yrs. old and they have watched me go through everything for the past few days and that really makes you feel worse.But,I can now only apologize and move forward,from all of the horrible things that I have done.With my kids being older it’s really hard but,there school is full of drugs.So,I look at it like this if I had to be the one to make the mistakes instead of them and they learned something by watching me I’m good with that.And,I truly believe that my children will never touch A pill.They absolutely hate the word.I do believe that my girls watching me go through everything I have been through was the most humiliating thing about this whole ordeal.But,hey it can only get better now I can’t change the past I can only promise A much brighter future.and that is my Goal,I could just scream I did not know being sober felt as good as i do today.I am so HAPPY!!!!!!I will be pulling for all of you,I know if i can do it anyone can,I am the type of person with NO will power But,I have managed to do this so far,it can only get easier now.I wish all the moms and dads out there the very best of luck and I will be praying for all of you and myself.For everyone out there that thinks you can’t do it just remember YOU CAN DO ANYTHING YOU WANT TO DO..We may have to work extra hard at it but,we can do it.Remember we have to have faith in ourselves.Just remember that what we have going through no pill is worth all that.WE CAN DO IT!!!!Talk to you all later.
On August 21st, 2010 at 4:59 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Awesome update, Michelle….this is what we were all hoping to hear!

Stay strong….
On August 22nd, 2010 at 2:07 am ,
michelle Says:

Hey,hope everyone is doing well.i was actually in a room full of people tonight and the most of them were talking about taking or wanting pills.And I was very proud to be able to tell them i never wanted another pill as long as i live.It felt so good to be able to say that because,honestly I did not know if I was gonna be able to do that are not but,I was so proud of myself when I did.My cravings are almost gone i still find myself thinking of Hydros from time to time but,I just find something to occupy myself and it soon goes away.I really don’t think I could have done this without reading every ones story on this page.It has really helped just being able to talk to people that are going through the same thing as I am.Thanks Patrick and also thanks to everyone on here wish you all the BEST OF LUCK.I’m probably gonna keep writing because,it has been A great help.The whole out come of all of this feels so wonderful.
On August 22nd, 2010 at 3:02 pm ,
michelle Says:

Having A wonderful day!!!!This feels GREAT,Awesome feeling being sober!Hope everyone is doing well…..
On August 22nd, 2010 at 11:08 pm ,
michelle Says:

Goodnight to everyone!!!Hope everyone has A good night,I promise it does get easier just hang in there.There could not be anyone that loves pain pills more than me,I know it is hard but,life sure fills better without it.I even stayed outside all day today and enjoyed the beautiful sunshine and even done yard work,and actually enjoyed it.I sure hope I continue to feel this good.Going to bed now talk to everyone tomorrow.wising everyone the best of LUCK….
On August 23rd, 2010 at 9:20 am ,
michelle Says:

Well i got my kids off to school,I’m having a slight craving this morning I think I’m fixing to go back to bed.Hopefully I get through this.Talk to everyone later!!!!!
On August 23rd, 2010 at 5:30 pm ,
Patrick Says:

Thanks for the updates Michelle….keep up the good work and keep us posted.

Nothing wrong with sleep during this difficult time!
On August 23rd, 2010 at 8:06 pm ,
michelle Says:

Having some pretty strong cravings today but,so far i have been controlling them.hope to continue to be in control.Just ate supper now I’m going back to bed.
On August 24th, 2010 at 7:59 am ,
mary Says:

I have been on 60 mg of norco a day.my dr. is not trying to wean me off of the norco it has been four years i am ready. I really am terrified do to the fact it has been four years plus and i am in my late 40s.worried about my health no dr. or insurance for a regular dr.pain management is by a letter of protection.has anybody out there been on norco four years plus and concord on thier own.how long will this take.i want to start off by taking 4 a day 1 week 2nd week 3 per day and so on untill i get to one. then go from thier.
On August 24th, 2010 at 9:25 am ,
michelle Says:

I had a really rough night,someone called me late last night before I went to bed and had some cheap hydros for sale,I wanted to go and get them so bad,thank god for my husband he would not hear of it.So,I went on to bed I tossed and turned all night.Every time I opened my eyes I thought about them damn hydros.I hope I pull through this day,my husband took off work today i know he only done this where I couldn’t go and get those hydros .hopefully it will be A better day than night…
On August 24th, 2010 at 4:43 pm ,
michelle Says:

Mary,The Dr.is not ever going to wean you off of the damn things it brings in to much money for them.As long as they have everybody addicted to these things people are going to continue going their asses.I think that it is the Dr.s fault they have everyone strung out on pills if they wouldn’t be so quick to write all these narcotics people would not be so addicted.These Dr.s know what they are doing.I’m going through A hard time right now with hydros and it is NO fun at all.I find it easier to go cold turkey but,that’s just me.If I am still taking I can’t control that.But,I do wish you the very best of luck,keep in touch I’m on here everyday.I could not do it without it,just being on here has helped me a lot.GOOD LUCK!!!!!
On August 25th, 2010 at 9:52 pm ,
Michelle Says:

Well,I haven’t been doing very well.I have sick to my stomach for two days.I think it is a virus,is it possible to be still withdrawing it has been a week if so when does this ever end?i feel okay in every other way except stomach cramps and having a upset stomach.well,I’m going to bed now talk to everyone later…..
On August 25th, 2010 at 9:56 pm ,
Patrick Says:

@ Michelle – Well hang in there anyway….it is common, at times, for a recovering addict or an alcoholic to get sick shortly after getting clean and sober. Sort of a rebound thing.

Pull through it though and don’t give up. You are almost out of the woods with this thing….
On August 26th, 2010 at 8:22 am ,
Michelle Says:

Patrick ,I am trying hard to keep it together it is hard sometimes.But,I am determined to win this ugly battle.The only thing making me hold together is that I hate to fail at anything,I just never realized it could possibly last this long.I feel a lot better this morning hope I continue to feel good the rest of the day….
On August 26th, 2010 at 4:23 pm ,
Addicted Professional Says:

I DID IT!!! Today is almost been one full week and I did it!!!! I feel much better. Better than I have in a long time. I laughed with my husband at a funny commercial…I ran around the backyard with my kids last night! It was horrible and I think I will continue to feel better….but wow! this is awesome! My kids are getting up from nap…I’ve called in sick to work all week!!..so I gotta go get them! Good job to everyone else and keep up the good work!
On August 26th, 2010 at 10:11 pm ,
Addicted Professional Says:

Wayne! Way to go! I just had time to read your post…were you referring to a plane? A cessna? He he. I am a pilot also and just noticed that part of your post. I am feeling pretty good tonight..I did mess up and just took about 10mg of hydrocodone that fell out of a pair of jeans. My God…I have no control. Given what I just went through this past weekend I cannot believe I didn’t curse and burn those darn pills. Anyway…I don’t think it will be much of a set back. This has been real eye opener for me. I don’t ever want to go through this again and I hope I can help other people by not even giving them the option of becoming addicted…I am in the healthcare profession if no one has gathered that yet. My husband and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary this month and are going on vacation soon to celebrate…I am so excited to be going clean and not having to worry about having an adequate supply to take with me. It is so refreshing to wake up in the mornings and feel good…not in the early stages of w/d. I wish everyone so much luck. I will probably continue to come onto this site just to remind myself of all of the misery this addiction can cause. Love you all.
On September 2nd, 2010 at 12:44 am ,
FassFeat Says:

I too would like to thank Patrick, as it seeems he is the adminastrator of this site. I have been taking Lorcet 10/650 for close to 3 yrs. I honestly don’t know how I am still alive. I was scared of W/D and like most everyone else here, all alone with my evil little secret. They last 8 months or so really got bad. I had been taking up to 30-40 per day. I had built such a tolerance , that I still could not get the desired buzz. I have been so ashamed of myself for so long, but too scared to take action. Nov will be my 25th anniversary with my wife, have a soph in college and sophin high school. I work with a high level group of people, what would they think. It is amazing that you can function at that rate.
It finally happened, I got demoted at work a few months ago, then got demoted again this past Saturday 8/29. I have been with the same company for 20 yrs.
A few months ago my wife picked up on something wasn’t right and marriage has been bad too. Hydro, the devil.
Monday 8/30 I had only had about 12 on Sun and 10 on Mon (took the last couple at 3pm) I was driving around and seriously comptemplated taking my life. Then I started thinking about I didnt want to do that to my wife and kids.But just the fact that I considered it an option. I decided to quit, regardless of the misery.
I came home, took somethiing to make me sleep, and pretty much slept for the next 8-10 hrs. The next day I fessed up to my wife, she already knew. She just wanted me to admit it. I started reading the posts, I got her to read some so she would know what I would be going through as well.
It is Weds 9/1 at 11:30pm, so going on 54 hrs. I also went to my family Dr. (the one that delivered my children and told him what was going on. I chose not to use Suboxan, as I have had friend to stay on it for over a yr, and it is just as hard to get of off. I got Gatorade, Immodium, my Dr perscribed Clondon (lowers blood pressure and eases some of hot flashs, etc.) and have been taking Motrin and other OTC pain relievers. It is hard to believe that I am already feeling almost normal again. I have never even heard of anyone taking as many a day as I was, so I thought it would be worse than it actually has been. I made a decision that I didnt care if I loose my job, have to start over with everything, that I am not going to spend anymore time looking for pills. My son and I took a short trip to California a few months ago, the hardest part for me was scraping up enough drugs to last the whole trip.
My wife is supportive, and I know that the hardest part is yet to come, the pyscological desire over the next weeks and months. I will also stay on this forum until I have it under control, it does feel good to talk about it.
One last thing, I turned off the ringer on my phone during this time, but earlier today, I had two different connections contact me to let me know there was ample supply. I told them what I was doing, and they wished me luck. I am sure they hope I will fail, as I was a very good customer. Thanks again, I have been inspired be this forum, and If I can do it, anyone can. I had 2 1/2 really bad days, and already getting better.
On September 2nd, 2010 at 12:49 am ,
FassFeat Says:

I apologize for all the misspelled word and typo errors. It just felt so good to let it out. Thanks to all on board.