Hello Everyone

[Graeme1974]

Hi everyone.

If i may I'd like to introduce myself.

I'm from England and have been a pain patient for nearly 20 years. My pain has recently improved and I'm doing a methadone taper to get off opiates for good.

I'm also training to be a paramedic so things are very hectic. I'd like to just stop dead cold turkey but after being on opiates foe so long its tough. I've tapered sown from 180mg of methadone down to 100mg but haven't taken anything for three days now just to if a cold turkey is even possible. I'm also prescribed lyrica and clonidone and diazepam which are helping a bit.

Well that's me. Pleases to meet everyone and I hope I can contribute to the forum with my considerable experience with opiate pain meds.

Thank you. :)

[Graeme1974]

Edit.  Should have said my Doctor has just retired.....stupid phone!!!

[Graeme1974]

Yes you right it is an enormous dose. My problems are compounded by the fact my so for has just retired and cut me off. All my protests of "you cant do that.. My methadone was started by the pain clinic you cant just stop me" were in vain.

If i want to keep going I've for to find a new doctor that will keep up the scripts. That or turn to a drug and alcohol service who,h due to my job I cant. I just feel like crying...today is day 4.

[vicki595]

Graeme-  I'm worried for you. 100mg is A LOT to abruptly stop. Maybe the meds you're on will help but it's just an enormous dose to quit. Stay in touch here so we know how you are and how we can help.

[Graeme1974]

Sorry for the typos....im on my phone lol!! Xx

[Graeme1974]

I feel ok actually.

I'm prescribed pregabalin, clonidine and diazepam (small amount of that on) and they help t a bit.
You're right the long halflife makes the withdrawals very protracted. The usually start on about day 2...peak at about day 7or 8 and last about a month whereas with other opiates the withdrawals ars usually over within a week.

A taper would be the best bet but I just want off. Whether being in serious. Withdrawal will be possible while doing my paramedic training is another matter as its very demanding.....ahh well I can buy try xx

[jenny06xx]

Well done making it this far :-)
From my little knowledge of methadone it has a long half life so I'm not quite sure when your withdrawals would actually start but I'd say about now
Fingers crossed for you Hun I'm on night 3 of dihydrocodeine withdrawal plus a lot of other meds an I'm doing surprisingly well so far .
How are you actually feeling now on day 3 ?
Xx

[nvvicaddict]

Hi and welcome! Good decision to quit especially since you want to be paramedic. Good luck and keep on posting - this is a great forum of support