question about respritory depression?

[Dukeee]

I am so so so worried about dying in my sleep.I am on 50mgs of methadone 59 years old my health is good my physical condition is good my diet is good. What signs should my wife and myself be looking for? Snoring, breaths per min. while asleep?

[Dukeee]

No other drugs, vitamins omega3 I was abusing pain meds, anything I could find,no more than 40-60mgs for 8yrs. about 3 months ago I started on a methadone program through a clinic,I guess I am finding my right dose.Been reading alot of info on methadone  and nutrition. My plan is to start to taper,or lower my dose.

[Dukeee]

Last nite I was not overly tired,I work fulltime "management" no physical work,a sleep study is something I will do,I just worry about tonite, anything I could do? besides stay up all nite?

[VICourageous]

Hi.
I was prescribed methadone for around 12yrs. I do remember the days when I would take to high of a dose and my breathing would be short. I sure would highly encourage you to start dropping now before you really get to far into this drug. It is one of the hardest one to detox off of.
As far as sleep??I would talk to the Dr..Methadone will affect the respiratory and sleep. I would try to prop a pillow up and sleep upwards a bit so you can breath better..BUT YES DO Talk to a DR..I also remember I used to rub Vicks around my nose and chest because of this breathing thing. SO I sure hope you get off soon.
Bless

[newoutlook12]

I know its a little better on your respirations to not lay flat, like maybe try a couple pillows to prop up your head and neck.  Or u could try to sleep in a recliner or something like that's.  Also sleeping on your left side is supposed to be easier on your heart it might also help your breathing. Sorry hope that helps you some!

[clean_in_ks]

Hi and welcome to the forum.  After reading thru your thread here, I would like to offer an opinion....and it's only MY opinion, ok?

If I'm not mistaken, the approximate ratio of methadone to hydrocodone is 2:1.....so if you were taking 40-60 mg of hydro for the past 8 yrs, your current dose of 50 mg of methadone is too high for what your body is used to.  All opiates really suppress our respiratory function (and out central nervous systems).

You also said last night, you added 15 mg of hydro to the 50 mg dose of methadone which would further suppress your respiratory function.
Is there some reason you are still taking hydros while on the methadone?

I personally believe if you are in good health, taking the nutritional supplements you mentioned, and say you eat a good diet that your breathing issues are related to the amount of opiates you are taking.

I'd reduce your methadone dose to get it more in line with your previous hydro habit and stop adding additional hydros to the methadone.  

[Dukeee]

Thank you all for taking time, I hope someday to be in a position to help others. I will use the information and I feel much better. I have a plan, and with Gods help and with nice and caring people like you all helping
Me I know now It will work. I plan to start a slow taper,keep up my health,nutrition and read a lot about what I am up against.