Aa
anbody have any advice for me???
hello, im a little new at this, but for around 2 yrs I was taking methadone no more then 10 mgs per day. I started weening myself down (I cut the pill into 4 small pieces) & only took a small piece a day. my last dose was 16 days ago. but to help with the run down feeling I started taking vicodin at the most 3 a day (5/500) & only for 2 weeks. my last dose of the v's was 3 days ago (only took 2) & overall I feel pretty good. just a little tired/run down, some sneezing, some yawning, & some light stomach issues here & there. I was expecting to feel the full effects by now, or has it just not hit me yet? thanks for reading this. will somebody please tell me what you think? it would mean a lot. thanks again..
Best Answer
Yeah, I didn't have cravings during the first stage (the 'acutes' -- I mean you have physical cravings, obviously..) but the devious stuff tends to come down the line in PAWS, That's when the real work begins: To live in our own skins, no matter the stressor without reaching for something. These kinds of cravings tend to come out of the clear blue and blindside us. I've really been experiencing this for the first time in just the past couple of weeks. (Got a lot of stress around me..ha!)
Anyway, it's can be quite intense and sustained but you've got to build a 'framework' around you to protect your hard-won gains. Positive steps might include: staying on the site and giving back, meetings, system of spiritual belief, Sober friends/family, journaling, staying 'witnessed' and reaching out when you're under stress and/or when you slip, healthy hobbies and passions.
Anyway, it's can be quite intense and sustained but you've got to build a 'framework' around you to protect your hard-won gains. Positive steps might include: staying on the site and giving back, meetings, system of spiritual belief, Sober friends/family, journaling, staying 'witnessed' and reaching out when you're under stress and/or when you slip, healthy hobbies and passions.
what exactally is PAWS? I plan to stay on this site for as long as possible. I only have sober ppl around me, but none of them knew I was on anything. so being around them will help. I did start to make a journal on day 1. & I try my best to keep myself busy. im sure I have a long road ahead of me, & im willing to do what it takes to stay on the right path.
Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome..It's what happens after you're over 'the hump' or 'acute' withdrawal. Depending on the drug, age, dosage, medical history and whether or not you've had other habits, PAWS, in the early stages usually includes: sweating, some tearing, heightened sensitivity to light & smell, heightened libido, sneezing and sleeplessness.
After these symptoms abate, PAWS is all 'mental/emotional' and that's the real trial for most people.
After these symptoms abate, PAWS is all 'mental/emotional' and that's the real trial for most people.
thank you for telling me, & thank you for replying back to me each time. I havnt had any other habits. I know that it probabally depends on the person, but about how long after do the paws kick in? today I actually felt great, I got out of the house for a little & had more strength & energy than I did. hopefully tonight is a good night. I havnt had rls yet. & I thought that was odd. should I be expecting that to come? thanks again this really helps me..
If you're feeling great and your sleeping, then it's pretty likely that you've entered PAWS.
Hi You got some great advise from my Buds up above..From my 12 years on a way Higher dose on the Methadone with a benzo and 1 other med, I feel you are going to be just fine..You where on only 10mg and not for long..I jumped the boat off of 3 meds and my done was down to 30mg..I am no young chic so it did take me into many stages..I would be more worried about the benzo..Do make sure if you want off of that one you do a nice and easy slow taper..I have been in w/d before from the other opiates but the benzo I am sure is what caused alot of different issues this time..You are like a walking miracle to me because you only took 10mg for 2 years and never got so out of control with this med..Great Job on that part and my hats off to you!! You sound very positive and got your self set up..I know you will just ride this out in no time at all..Let us know when you decide to get off the benzo..Make sure you do talk to the DR about this one too..OK
Best of luck and I am proud of you..
Best of luck and I am proud of you..
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Do you have the items from the Thomas Recipe in the lower right of this page. If not, pick those items up and follow the directions. Sleep will be at a premium so use hot baths w/Epsome Salts to help you relax. Pick up some natural supplements for sleep and anxiety, like Valerian root, Hyland's Calms Forte and Alteril for sleep.
Begin to look into aftercare. Getting clean is the physical part, staying clean is the mental part. In recovery we work on the thinking that got us deep into our addictions. I go to NA.
I wish you the best of luck. From what I've seen from you so far, I know you're going to do this. You have what it takes: Willingness!