Fentanyl 75mcg/hr trying to get off of it

[kimber8548]

Two days ago I had the hardware removed from my spinal fusion on August 1st. I have been on fentanyl since my first failed fusion 8 years ago. My primary care dr said I would realistically never get off of it. I want to now that my back has fused. I have a lot of pain at present after the hardware removal. My pain has not been controlled because of the fentanyl. I was warned but there was nothing I could do to prepare for it. I feel like someone was digging for hours in my flesh! I want to get off the patch as soon as I heal from surgery. How should I start?

[marycarmel]

You can get off the patch.  The key is to taper very slowly.  Follow the suggestions in the Thomas recipe.  I was depemdent and came off too quickly and was miserable.  When you get low enough you can switchi to an oral narcotic and continue the taper from there.  Femtamyl is a drug that, imo, should only be used when you kmow you'll never be cominfg off.  PM me if you want.  Drink lots'of fluids ... that's important.  You can do this.  Fentanyl- wreaked havoc on, y body.  I wish I had known.  The key is go very slowly and you'll be ok-

[On2better]

It doesn't sound like you are abusing the patches (not chewing them, right?) so I think a taper would be your best option unless you are worried you might abuse them. You can taper down to 50, then 25, then 12.5 mcg patches. Slowwwwly is the key. And with your doctors guidance. He will have a better idea on how long to keep you at each dose. Good luck, I hear those are pretty difficult withdrawals. You can use this community for support if you need us!

[atthebeach]

so glad the fusion worked for you this time. that is good news.
you are on the upswing now. you should talk to your doctor about getting off the patch. you will  need  to taper off, these patches are very, very strong. the next lowest dose is a 50mcg patch.
how long do you keep a patch on now?