Opiate Dependant

[mattstrat]

In 2011, I was hospitallized and diagnosed with Guillian Barre Syndrome. My doctor put me on Percocet and I became dependant on it. I still get it but now he is getting iffy about it. I've been taking 120 Percocets a month because he placed me on them. Should he have to wean me off them or continue to prescribe them to me even though he is unwilling?  The problem is, that I am in severe pain and my dosage needs to be increased but I am afraid to ask for an increase in dosage because he may just shut me off. What are my rights and my doctor's resposibilities?

[ricart70]

Do the pills make you feel good mentally??   or do you just take them strictly for the physical pain?

[mattstrat]

He is getting iffy because I take more than I am prescribed and I will call in for the script too early and I think he may think I am selling them or something, but I am not. He prescribes me to take them every 6 hours but I take them every 4 hours and then I run out too early. thanks.

[vicki595]

Why do you think he's getting iffy?  Have you told him about the pain you're in?  Yes, he has an obligation to care for you to the best of his ability and that may include getting you off the Percocet.  The thing to do is to have a nice, long talk with him.  If he is reluctant to continue prescribing, ask him to work with you on a taper plan.   Your pain level needs to be addressed though...

[marycarmel]

What are you having severe pain from.  If your initial issue has resolved the right thing would be for the doctor to taper you down, though not all do.  Is he aware of the pain you're having?