Off methadone after 30 years-

[Birdlover1957]

I am very happy to say that I am finally off Methadone after using it for 30 years. I did a slow detox and when I jumped off at 4 mg it was still not easy. All of my family have known the entire time that I needed to be on this and I finally decided last March that I was sick of going to the clinic, ( even though I only had to go once every three weeks), and being a slave to this drug. Unfortunately, I have a herniated disc that I receive occasional epidurals. The problem is that I have been needing to take 3 hydrocodone daily. They are the 5/325 mg. I have been having to take these daily for the past few months. Tomorrow I have another appt at the pain center and I need to ask for a refill. I haven't been to pain center in 6 months due to only being able to receive 3 epidurals during that time.my PCP has been prescribing the Hydrocodone but is now turning it over to the pain management doctor. I am proud of myself for only taking 3 pills a day because in the past I would have taken a lot more. I am not sure how long I am going to need these pills, but I am really worried about being physically dependent on them. Can anyone tell me how they stopped taking the hydrocodone pills? I just do not want to go through with the horrible withdrawal symptoms. Thanks so much.

[BlondeChick10]

Congrats on getting off methadone.. 30 years I am proud of you!  As far as the Hydro when you and your MD decide you don't need it I am sure he can work a taper plan for you.. Again I am proud after 30 years you took the plunge.
Best wishes-
Ann

[Birdlover1957]

Thanks so much. I really thought I would be on the Methadone for the rest of my life. It is strange getting out of the habit of waking up and automatically going to get my dose out of my dresser for the day. I still walk over to the dresser and then stop, put a smile on my face and realize I am free. I truly appreciate everyone's kind words and would hope I can benefit someone else by knowing that it is possible to get off Methadone, even after using for 30 years straight. I forgot to mention on my initial post that I took my last dose on Dec 7th,2012- and am just now starting to get some energy back. So sweetness - it will get better. Don't worry about the house cleaning, etc. you also need to be very proud of yourself for what you have accomplished. Bless you all.

[weaver71]

If you have made it through the methadone madness, especially after 30 yrs, I wouldn't worry about 30mgs of hydros. You are doing awesome, just do what you have to for now. You're doing great, just stick to your guns. You can make it through this, one day at a time. I think you are on your way to a new life, stay focused on how far you have come. Nice work. You're an inspiration.

[Sweetness91]

Wow Birdie! It's amazing you worked thru your methadone withdrawal!! I'm 25 days off methadone and still don't have the energy to even clean my house the way I like it to be done! Amazing job!!! You go girl!!

[Bkitty]

Don't deny yourself of the support that is needed to maintain sobriety. Its amazing~everyone is different and some work other kinds of programs what ever they need. Find something that fits for you!! When you get a chance-LOL. It will be the BEST present you ever give yourself besides getting sober!! Again awesome awesome awesome job getting off that methadone!! That's a hard one! You did!! I just want to see you keep succeeding! ((hugs))

[Birdlover1957]

Thanks for the comments. I am not presently in any program to maiintain my sobriety, I know this is important. My energy level is still not there and I work full time. ( I did not miss any work while detoxing off methadone).dont know how I did it. I do pray daily for strength and help because I never want to feel so awful again. Thanks for your support.

[Bkitty]

Hi and Welcome! Awsome job getting off the methadone!! Congrats!! Just because you are an addict does not mean that you have to suffer in pain!! It sounds like you have been very successful controlling the hydrocodone-you've been responsible. I don't think you will suffer too much withdrawal coming off the 3 pills. It may be uncomfortable for a few days but nothing compared to the withdrawal off the methadone! We are not allowed to give taper advice here on the forum but a slow taper off the 3 pills would prob be doable. I hope your pain doctor can help you find some non narcotic alterantives to treat your pain.Its kinda trial and error finding what works the best for you, I wish you all the best! I think you will be OK. Are you working the program or a program to maintain your sobriety? That can also be helpful here too. Congrats!! ((hugs))