quitting hydrocodone

[alittlecozy2]

I've been prescribed 10/325 hydrocodone 2x's a day for extreme pain in my knee. I've been taking them for close to a year, and sometimes have taken 4 or 5 in a day, thus running out of my prescription too soon. That's the case now, I cant get a refill for another 9 days, and the anxiety I feel makes me realize I'm addicted to them.  Yes, the withdrawal symptoms have started - chills, sweating, can't sleep. The last pill I took was 48 hours ago.
Any advice on how to cope? I don't have any insurance, so I need to detox at home. I live alone, with adult children living nearby. Thanks!

[Scaredbrokengirl]

I am so sorry that you are going through this!   Try watching TV to pass the time, listen to music, stay in bed if you are weak.   Stay strong and we are here for you!!    Keep posting and we will hold your hand!!  
sb girl

[kyle505]

I'd suggest talking to your doctor; let him/her know that you want to take over-the-counter meds and stop the hydros. How bad is your pain, really? Do you need the meds anymore? If you don't, and you really want to stop, then cancel the refill and get in to see your doctor. Right now you are just looking for support until the refill is ready - or do you really want to quit?
K

[Jinx_777]

i used to do that every month.  at the bottom of the page there is something called the Thomas Recipe.  I have not personally used it, but many people have.  
the most important thing is staying hydrated and long soaks in the bath with epsom salt will help the restless legs..
the good news is that since hydrocodone has such a short life your physical wd symptoms should not last longer than a week.  the mental wd's will last longer.
are you planning on stopping for good or will you get a refill in 9 days?

I used to take pain meds for DDD and spinal stenosis as well as scar tissue built up around my tailbone.  I thought that pain was HORRIBLE.  
then i fell off the roof and broke my back, hip and pelvis and it is then that I knew severe pain.  I would give anything to have my old pain back.  
i had built up such a tolerance to opiate medication taking it for nat least 15 yrs and now this pain is VERY hard to control.  I would highly suggest if there is anyway possible you could live with the pain in your knee with motrin and tylenol and not have to take opiates, that is what i would do.  you just never know.
it is not worth having to go 9 days every month without medication and going into wd's every month.  just wouldn't be worth it to me.  

now I have no choice to be on these meds so I make sure i take it as prescribed and if it is not helping with the pain and I feel I need more, then i talk with the dr.  

hang in there.  the worst will be day 3 & 4 from my experience.