I need help, gp is rubbish!

[Unconventionalmum]

I've been taking cocodamol 30/500mg 8 times a day (highest allowed dose) for over 3 years. If I miss one dose, I'm in pain, I'm achy, I'm moody, my chest is tight. I brought this up with my Dr before all the coronavirus started and he said well just keep taking them... Today I had an emergency phone call due to pain in my stomach and this doctor said I shouldn't be taking 8 a day and try to limit them. I explained that I've taken this dose for years and struggle to stop them and he said, just take 4 tomorrow instead of 8. Literally got off the phone and I feel so unsupported, why didn't they do this when all the support was available? I became addicted through no fault of my own, they didn't warn me that these tablets would hold me under a spell that I must take them. It's dreadful, now I feel like I've got to stop the painkillers, despite the fact I have gallstones which is why I rang in first place, I'm currently quitting smoking and there is zero support in place. I have quite bad mental health issues and was hospitalised multiple times in the past but for the last year I've kept myself stable. I know this is all going to unravel, this is so much pressure. The coronavirus, this lockdown, 3 kids, my mental health issues and now this. I just need some support or advice on what to do xx

[whiteflat48]

Hi unconventional, sorry you didn't get any answers here. How are you doing? Please don't be put off by your doctors response. You need professional help. Please contact your local drug and alcohol service and/or NA (they are still doing meetings via zoom)

[Astill]

Hi
I have just read your posts and hopefully will be able to help you
I am a drug and alcohol addiction primary care
If you'd like to private message me I'd be glad to help you with getting into recovery
Please don't worry there is lots of help out there for you

[june2007]

The guidelines that come with the meds warn you though don,t they. It,s good to cut out smoking, but at moment probably best to cut down the tabs, that amount can do serious damage. Contact surgery and see if they have any support available. (or pharmacy.)

[ExecutionStyle]

Hey there. So you'll have to go again (sorry) to the GP. Tell them you're an addict. Either ask to be tapered under your GP and for a referral to the pain clinic, or for a referral to your local drug and alcohol clinic. Most drug and alcohol clinics are really good and offer a lot of support and medical help for addiction. If you were off them, would you STAY off? If so, taper down. Go from 8 a day to 7 for a week. Then 6, 5 until you're free. There will be some physical withdrawal. You could always go cold turkey too. Would be horrific, but after 4 days you'll be free. Good luck.

[Hopeforall]

If you go to the doctor and tell them you’re an addict won’t that be on your medical records?