BRC

I have been active and in sports all my life. Not a drinker, smoker, and didn't use drugs. In September 2007, my shoulder needed a MRI for surgery. My doctor prescribed me Norco (Vicodin) 10/325 3x a day (90 per month) after they put the needle in my joint and he said it would control the pain until surgery. I was scared to take pain meds, but I filled the prescription and took that first pill. It did help with the pain, and I didn't like the way it made me feel at first. Then, after several days, I felt great with no pain. In fact, I seemed to get more accomplished and had a higher level of energy. I had the surgery and about 9 months later, I decided to stop taking the medication. I felt sick because my body was used to it. I asked the doctor if this was withdrawal and if it would affect my epilepsy. He said no. After two weeks, I felt better physically, but was very sad and depressed. The pharmacy called and told me I had a refill ready for pick up...I thought, oh, wow, I will pick it up and feel better. Well, 5 years later and also getting medication from my pain doctor, I am tired of it! I am scared to tell my pain doctor and I am scared of withdrawal and my job. However, I do work from home. I took a vicodin last night at midnight and thought it would be my last. But I started to feel so bad, I caved and took one about four hours ago. I take about 5 per day. My prescription is 150 per month. Sometimes I run out a few days early. I am just ready to be norco free. Should I flush everything I have and tell the doctor? I thought I could just cold turkey this, but my epilepsy scares me. Can withdrawals cause seizures? How long until I feel normal. Thank you to anyone who reads this long post. BRC

FredG

Consult your Doctor first. Tell him the same story you just told us. Ask him the same questions.

Anna

Hi and Welcome,

You really need to talk to your dr. He's been prescribing this medication for 5 years? If so, you need to tell him you want to stop taking the medication and follow his advice.

Know for sure that you can do this and we are here to offer support.

Dee74

Hi BRC - welcome

I agree with the others - it's always a good idea to get professional medical advice - but especially if you have other health issues as well.

If you don't wish to see your current Dr, at least get a second opinion?

D

BRC

Thank you so much. I am going to have a talk with my pain specialist. Do you think the withdrawal symptoms will be just as bad coming off 5 or 6 as someone who takes 15 or more? Or does it matter? Is weaning really worth it? Would you still have the same "POW" withdrawal coming off "half" per day as coming off 10 per day cold turkey?

ACT10Npack

I would go see a different doctor for this pain medication. Seem to me that the pain doctor should have gotten you off or at least switch to wicker pain medication because 5 years is a long time being on pain meds. Don't know anything about medication withdrawals but seeing a different doctor should be your next step.