View Single Post
Old 01-21-2010, 05:44 AM
  # 18 (permalink)  
eddie z.
No expectations!
 
eddie z.'s Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2004
Posts: 8,732
I like to make a distinction between "addiction" and simple physical dependence which just means one has physical withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped. If I can control my intake of a drug without trouble, then I don't consider myself "addicted." I recently tapered off an antidepressant, though, which if I had just stopped taking all at once, would have probably been a disaster because of withdrawal symptoms.

I suggest you discuss a tapering schedule with the prescriber(s). Better safe than sorry. I have had withdrawals after taking fairly small doses of narcotics such as oxy for even short periods of time, like less than a week. It's very individual. I believe it's best to work with your healthcare providers and be up front about your concerns. Just my 2 cents.

Best wishes to you and WELCOME TO SR!!
Love and hugs,
Eddie Z.
eddie z. is offline