I really need help kicking my painkiller addiction

[joanneg]

A while ago I posted on mumsnet under my previous nickname about my problem with pain killers. I got some great advice especially from Lisa78.

Well - an update of sorts. I have managed to stop taking the prescription painkillers I was taking - but replaced them with a less strong over the counter type (co-codamal). It has got to the stage that I feel I need to come off them for good but I am so terrified to.

I know this sounds silly and some people might find this daft - but I realise that I am totally hooked on them. I feel like I cant get through a day without them, but am worried that I am going to overdose unintentionally. I feel ill all of the time and feel like I need them - but think that they are causing my headaches and the stress of the addiction is making me feel ill - so I feel I need them.

My dh is great, my ds is a wonderful little boy - so it frustrates me that I feel so low and am so hooked on these stupid things. I do suffer with depression (although I hide it well). I have the family from hell and have been through a lot so I think as a result I have quite an addictive personality (I over spend and over eat too).

Please can anybody give me some advice on getting rid of these bloody pain killers. At the moment I take 8 a day (4 doese of two tablets). The thought of not taking them pushes me over the edge and I just want to cry. should I try cutting down, or just stop?

Please help, I know this is sounds like a silly problem but it is really ruining my life.

[MUMINAMILLION]

Just to say hi, joanneg. Hope you are ok and coping.

[joanneg]

Just popped back to this thread and saw your latest messages. Thanks so much for thinking of me guys - it really does make a difference.

Well, I have just got back from a week at sunny Butlins in Bogner (!!) and I am feeling quite motivated to something about this. I am sick of feeling Lethargic and ill, I am sick of moping and feeling sorry for myself. Time for action! This is the new improved action Joanneg!

As of last night I have cut out one tablet from my last dose of the day. I am thinking as others have suggested that the slow method will be best long term.

I am also going to start a thread about getting counselling today as I think that a lot of my problems are a symptom of underline problems.

Darla - i know what you mean about taking them in secret. That makes it a bigger burden though doesnt it because you feel like you are doing something wrong. If you want to chat by all means CAT me.
Susanmt - i was really touched that you had thought of me and wanted an up date, thanks
Mrs doolittle - thankyou for the support. Coming off the stronger dose was a nightmare - but I am so glad as it doesnt feel like such a big hurdle now.
Muminamillion - you truely are! Everytime I see one of your posts I smile because you are so sweet! Thanks for your message.
I will let you know how I get on thanks for the support. Jo xx

[MUMINAMILLION]

Good for you!! Absolutely fabulous news - so proud of you. I know you can do this and I think you do too. You've made my day!! I'm just sorry this is a bit belated. Keep letting me know how you are doing.xx

[joanneg]

Just thought I would do a quick update. I have been on 3 doses a day for over a week and seem to be ok. I think I will carry on for a couple more weeks on 3 doses a day and then perhaps drop another dose (scary). thanks for your messages of support x

[kalex]

Well done JN - slow but steady, absolutely the way forward !!

[bottersnike]

Oh well done! It's the first step towards the new you!
You can do it, and it's a great idea to start slowly and build up from there.
I know it feels scary, but it is worth it, and I know all of us who've posted here will be thinking of you over the coming days and weeks.
Hurray!

[mrsforgetful]

joaneg....just remember that ONE day you WILL wake up and not think of the medicine...or you will dissolve the tablets and forget to drink it.....and when that day happens it will be the right time.

cutting back slowly is by far the best way...otherwise the withdrawal/cold turkey is so bad that you just give in.

I binge eat and i consider myself to be succesful when i select food for a binge and then actually get sidetracked and find it later untouched. it reminds me that I CAN MANAGE WITHOUT IT.

Hope this helps.

take care.

[sueisnew]

Hello my name is Sue and I am in the process of coming off Solpadol Effervessent Tablets.
I have taken these tablets for many years now and am at present going through a great deal of discomfort and illness, is there anyone who can advise me?
My doctor was the one who told ME that I needed to 'kick them' but I think by not prescribing me anymore its been too much too soon! She gave me DIHYROCODEINE tabs as a replacement but they are doing nothing for me :-(
I have been experiencing nausea, extreme fatigue, moodiness, and the most disturbing of all 'Restless legs'! shock
Not sure if anyone out there knows about this condition? but it is keeping me awake and there is no treatment for it.:-(
Anyway I will try my best to keep going but its not easy and my poor partner is going through it bless him xx
Will post again, I hope to receive a reply as this is my first time and I would appreciate any support that may be out there.
Good Luck everyone

Sue grin