Pain Killers: Getting off is hard to do...

Opiate Withdrawal Timeline

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If you’re trying to kick your addiction to painkillers or some other opiate, heroin, oxy’s, or whatever, here is the Opiate Withdrawal Timeline you can use to follow your symptoms and gauge your time to physical recovery. The opiate withdrawal timeline is a general timeline and some people may experience a different or longer timeline, depending on how long you have used and especially if you are coming off of either Methadone or Suboxone/Subutex.

Methadone and Suboxone(buprenorphine) both have a half life longer than regular opiates, as they are “Partial” opiates that are used to block opiate receptor cells int he brain. So the withdrawal symptoms will last longer and can be a bit harder or more severe than a regular opiate. The good news is that if you taper down to as low as you can get before jumping off, your withdrawal will be less severe and won’t last as long.

Opiate Withdrawal Timeline – The First Stage

The first part of the Opiate Withdrawal Timeline usually starts within the first 12 hours of your last opiate intake and it is also known as Acute Withdrawal.

  • The first symptoms usually begin within 12 hours of your last opiate intake or use but within 24-36 hours of last opiate use.

  • The initial withdrawal symptoms peak at about day number Three and have been known to last up to 5 days, usually tapering after the 72 hour mark

  • The main symptoms of First Stage Acute Withdrawal are:

  • The first initial symptom many addicted encounter is Sneezing and Runny Nose with Watery Eyes.
  • Irritability and Depression/Extreme Depression

  • Insomnia – Inability to get any sleep

  • Nausea and/or Vomiting

  • Abdominal cramps

  • Diarrhea
  • These Flu-like physical symptoms usually subside after seven to ten days but everyone is different. For some it may be a little longer, for others it will be less. However, the magic number seems to be 72 hours. 72 Hours seems to be the hump everyone needs to get over then it starts gettign better from there on out.

Opiate Withdrawal Timeline – The Second Stage

The second stage of the opiate withdrawal timeline can usually last for about Two Weeks. During this time the natural levels of endorphins, that the brain stopped making and were depleted of during long-term painkiller or opiate use, begin to stabilize during this period and the brain starts to make them again. This part of the opiate withdrawal timeline is critical as many people return to opiate abuse because they want to be happy again. This is due to the depression associated with this stage of withdrawal and the brain not making enough endorphins. If you exercise during this time, it will help the brain produce natural endorphins and normalize.

  • The major symptoms during the second stage are:
  • Insomnia
  • Goose bumps
  • Chills
  • Dilated pupils
  • Leg cramps
  • After the initial first acute withdrawal symptoms, a person may start to feel much better and feel as if they are starting to get their life back.

Opiate Withdrawal Timeline – The Third Stage

This third stage can last the longest but it is usually the least severe stage of the opiate withdrawal timeline. In this stage we experience PAWS (Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome). It can take anywhere from one week to two months or more.  Some people don’t even experience this stage of the withdrawal and the person feels back to normal and goes on with life as if nothing ever happened. However, if a person does experience this stage, once  finished, they usually feels back to their normal selves again

  • The symptoms of this stage are mainly psychological, including but not limited to:
  • Depression and/or Anxiety (Depending on how long you used/abused opiates for, the brain could take a while to normalize, but have no fear, you will be happy again)
  • Restlessness
  • Insomnia

This is the Opiate withdrawal Timeline as seen by many an addict. It helps to have support throughout all stages of withdrawal and recovery. Support in the form of loved ones being understanding. Typically loved ones who have never been addicted or gone through opiate withdrawal will never understand what you are going through, so it may be in your best interest to check out a 12 step program.

Read the real life Opiate Withdrawal Timeline of a recovering addict in this post:

A Week In The Life Of A Recovering Pill Addict

 
Written by Larry C. - Visit Website
Get my Report on How to get off Painkillers with Suboxone HERE, It's only $14.97


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201 Responses to “Opiate Withdrawal Timeline”

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  1. Kathryn says:

    I am starting day two. I am sick and scared and I don’t have anywher to turn. My boyfriend is my only source of support and he isalso an addict with no interest in quitting. No one else in my life knows. Please help I’m so tbad yoday and my kids have the flu and I have to teach a class later.

    1. Larry C. says:

      you might want to start going to some NA meetings for support. you can’t really get support from an addict who doesn’t want to quit.
      You need to surround your self with addicts who’ve been there and gotten clean and are still clean.
      Good luck and keep us posted. also sign up for the newsletter adn get the natural formula for easing the withdrawal symptoms

      1. Kathryn says:

        Thank you. I just don’t want to feel like this anymore.

  2. Jerry says:

    I took pain meds for 8 years , purchased them on the streets.
    I would range from 30-100 mg per day.
    I quit cold turkey for 1 month last year and it was a killer, wanted to die for the 1st 5 days of them.
    I now quit again 3 weeks ago and it was a breeze compared to the 1st time.
    The key to my getting thru the WD without sickness was to wheen,the slower the better, about 5 percent per day,until the final day of taking 1 mg. once your down to a few mgs ,take right before bed time to help sleep.
    After that I went on a vacation to get my mind off them( this makes it easier). To help sleep I took alka selzer nighttime cold medicine for a few nights.( this knocks me out ).
    The urges where very light and I was out of town so I could not get them if I wanted.
    I see tons of great advice on here but if you ask your doctor and this addict for the best way to kick these we both will say WHEEN, WHEEN , WHEEN is the only way to help the WD’s from hurting you.
    Good luck, stay strong

  3. Beth says:

    Hey everyone my name is Beth. I became an addict by accident but none the less hear I am. I have been reading y’all’s post and are great. I am coming up on the end of day 4. Its not great but I’m not dying. I am using b12 ,Tylenol and Benadryl. Can anyone tell me what to expect day 5. Am I in the clear or will it get really bad again. I suffer from anxiety and p.t.s.d. Being anxious is killing me and triggering attacks. Thank so much
    . Beth

  4. Ray says:

    Hi everyone I could use some help please.I had a back fusion and woke up enrolled in pain management 3years ago. Been on ms Cotten 15mil 2times a day. Also morphine fast acting 15 mil 1a day. I’m currently on day #10 opiate free. Im having terrible symptoms leg cramps ,anxiety , night sweats ,cold during the day. Is this normal? I’m taking clonadine and atarax. How much longer will I be going thru this? I do not have any cravings for my old pain meds. I just want to feel better.

  5. Charlotte says:

    HELP. Been on vics since 2002 due to perminant back injury. my husband of 15 years just said get help or get out!!!

    1. Larry C. says:

      Read. The comments on the posts here, there are thousands of supporters for those who wish to get off. You could also go to NA for support that you really need in the way of people in your life. Do it, you will be glad you did.

  6. lil myke says:

    ive been taking vicodin and percocets everyday for the past 2yrs, it went from 2 vicodins to 4 and from 4 to 6 a day and if I had percocets 10mg I would take 4 maybe 5 sometimes 6 a day so I got pretty addicted pretty quick, I had to have some in anything and everything I did because in my mind everything good and fun wasn’t as fun without those pills. playing with my kids was always fun to me but it could be more fun if I was on vicodin or percs. I know I need to stop, I told myself if I cant stop now then I wont ever be able to stop, so im going on day 4 without taking anything I feel sick, lazy, cough, chills, I feel I don’t want to do anything unless a pill is there, I have horrible mood swings and attitude, i try to hide my mood swings because i kno its me not them but when someone talks to me in my mind im saying “SHUT THE FUCK UP!! as i smile and hide my inner anger:)but i got to quit for my kids and myself, im hoping to be done and over with vicodins n percs in 4 weeks although i know the urge will b there i would really b mad at myself to make it so long and relapse. my question is is there anything i can do at home to make this a bit easier? like taking aspirin or i dnt know, a massage or something?

  7. Jack says:

    Is anyone on here anymore? I’m on day 5 cold turkey of a nasty Norco W/D. I hurt all over physically, my back, neck, shoulders, and hiP are just radiating pain all over. Darn, how long does this last?

    1. Larry C. says:

      Yes Jack, there are people on here almost everyday. Day 5, well I’d say that you are past the hard part. usually day 3 is the hardest but then comes the gradual recovery back to normal. Withdrawal creates pain throughout the body and can last a while. Is Norco all you were doing or was there more?
      What supplements are you doing?
      LArry

    2. Jackie G says:

      Hey jacki, hang in there man the hard part is almost over! We have all been thru it. And yes it’s hard, but you come out of it alive and feeling like a new person I swear!!

  8. Adriane Paganini says:

    I am so happy I found your site. I really found you by accident, while I was browsing on Google for something else. Anyways I am here now and would just like to say thank you for a great post and an all round enjoyable blog. (I also enjoy the theme/design), I don’t have time to read through it all at the minute, but I have added your website to my favorites, so when I have time I will be back to read more. Please do keep up the awesome job!

  9. Denise says:

    Hi. My husband has been taking prescription narcotic medications for over two years. It started with Norco, but he has been taking 4mg dilaudid pills for over a year now. His doctor was allowing him to try to cut back slowly, but ran out of patience and cut him off. That was last week Monday. Wednesday through Saturday, he only took 1 pill a day, and Sunday was his first day with no narcotics at all. During the 4 days of only 1 pill a day, the withdrawal was pretty bad. Monday, he was feeling a lot better and thought he was over the wort of it, but Tuesday morning the nausea started. He has been miserable for 48 hours nw, even taking 3 different nausea medicines. I was wondering how much longer we can expect the nausea to last. Also, I am concerned about what will happen in the future if he ever needs pain killers again. He gets kidney stones, and I am afraid that if he takes pain killers for a stone in the future he will become physically addicted again. I understand the mental addiction, and that any further use of narcotics, even for a legitimate reason, will make it difficult to avoid a relapse. I will help make sure he does not have access to more than he needs, but I need to know how long it would take for the physical addiction to retun.

    Thank you everyone who has posted your inspirational stories here.

    1. Larry C. says:

      the worst part is usually over in 4-7 days. bt since he’s already been addicted once, it will be that much easier for the addiction to resume when he starts taking opiates again. It’s not a mental thing here, this is a highly physically addictive substance which is not to be messed with. he may have to do pain meds again but he can try prescription motrin. If he has to take opaies again you should probably handle them for him. he might also benefit from Narcotics anonymous.
      Good luck.
      Larry

  10. JP says:

    I figured i would tell my story since i never have.All of a sudden i woke up this morning and had that little demon on my shoulder.I have been clean now since October 1st 2012 to be exact.But for some reason i have been struggling that is why i am wrighting this. When i began taking pain pills it was due to 2 ruptured discs in my back.I rode dirt bikes,crashed dirtbikes,rode motorcyces,crashed motorcycles and played baseball.My doctors told me it was because of this that my discs exploded.I was only 30 years old at the time.Like the saying goes if i knew i was going to live this long i would have taken better care of myself.So along came the treatments chiropractors,massage therapy,injections nothing was working.My doctors prescribed me Vicodin took a couple of those BAM!we are back in business i had my life back.Well 1 went to 3,3 went to 6 and so on and so on. By the time i quit taking the Vicodin the first time i was up to 15 750’s a day eating five at a shot and still functoning.I figured it was time to quit and i stopped taking them,WoW did that suck.I was taking them for 3 years when i quit.I quit for 6 months then here comes the back pain again. I spent 6,000 on beds and went physical therapy Guess what? nothing worked I could not take it anymore.Enter stage right Percocet,Feeling better for a while Then They stopped working so i started eating more and more 20 5-325 a day.Well you can calculate how fast i went through 120 of them.So i started buying them on the street to suppliment my addiction.By this time i was a mess and my wife was starting to notice me falling apart.Do you have any idea what it is like not remembering The birth of your two little girls? They were getting older and older and i was missing out,This was killing me inside.My relationship with my wife was failing.One day i broke down and just cryed to my wife and asked for her help. Can i just tell you she is my rock I consider myself a Hard Man and i cannot compare to her.She supports me in everything.October first 2012 was the first day of my new life and man did it hurt!I will spare all the gory deatils of the next 3 days. I had to do this or i would die trying.The fifth day it was like i was looking through somebody elses eyes everything was clear in my life at that point.Things got better and better as the days go on. I finaly have my life back after 6 years dancin with the devil.I love my family with all that i am and will not miss another moment in there life. So there is a little about me. I had to wright this to remember what i went through and why i did it. Thanks for listing,
    Stay Strong,
    JP

    1. Larry C. says:

      what kind of support are you getting for yourself? doing any NA meetings?

      1. JP says:

        Yes. Larry I am, I. Just felt like my story could helping someone that needs a little faith.

        1. Larry C. says:

          Awesome! and thanks for sharing!

          1. lil myke says:

            congrats bro

  11. Patrick T says:

    Didn’t mean too mess up group talk with all of you won’t post again I’ll try some other sorry —————- patrick

    1. Larry C. says:

      you didn’t mess up anything. 🙂

    2. Bruce S. says:

      Patrick T.
      Don’t you even think of bailing on us, you little puke!!! We are all interested in you health and well being. Do I have to treat you like a kid? Nooo!
      I have told everyone on this forum that we all have worth/ value and you most of all. You are a step away from freedom and you don’t even know it.
      We know how fickin hard it is to kick the sh!t and we don’t want to see you fail. Yo? You are not going to get any better thinking Somas ans Norco is o.k. because your doc tells you it is. That’s unmitigated, unadulterated bullsh!t. You have to give it ALL up and can’t look back. You will die!!! I have been CAS for 10 months now and I’m 62 years old. I hurt almost as bad as I did when I first started taking this crap. I learned that the longer you stay on the junk, the worse it is for your body. Your muscles lose tone and your internal organs slow down and start to fail. Your having constipation problems and probably urination problems too. You can’t sleep a deep sleep because you have to get up at 3:00am to take the meds you don’t need, but have to have. That doctor has you all Ficked up. Get to a detox/rehab and get clean. You can’t let us down and you certainly can’t let your family down. Call on us at anytime day or night . We can talk you through most of this sh!t.
      Dude we care for you and want to see you get well.
      With all the love I have ,
      Bruce S.

      1. bruce s. says:

        I am just checking to see if anyone has a substance abuse problem here. I wrote a response to Patrick and thought someone besides me would respond. Looks like we’re all cured. I had my 1st anniversary last Thursday. Nobody cared or remembered. That’s pretty depressing, but piss on em! I have you guys and it helps.
        Gotta go to church now but I’ll write again soon. Everybody stay cool Y’all.
        With all the love I have,
        Bruce S.

        1. JP says:

          Hey Bruce just checking in to see How you are holding up? Stay strong!

        2. Jackie G says:

          Bruce , what have you been up too!!! ???!!!! It has been a long while since I’ve been on ! But life is still crazy as every! BUT I’m still clean!!! I think god for everyday he gives me and just try to keep moving on! How’s life treating you sweet man?

  12. Patrick T says:

    Well here goes, I have been reading about withdraws for some time . Have been through them a lot but then I give in I’m so tired of the pills. I’ve had neck, back and shoulder surgery lots of pain!!! I never in a million yrs thought I would be addicted to with draws doctors say I’m always going to have pain from the damage done. Question is how to get off pain killers to see if the pain has really been fixed or if its for real either way I what off pain meds. At one point I was taking 9 different pills for pain now I’m down to 3 SOMA and 10/325 NORCO 8x daily I think I’m on the right road but to kick the opiods has been really hard any info would help me. I know you don’t know me and I’m not part of the group but any help will be OK. Than you for listening sincerely patrick

    1. Larry C. says:

      The first thing you need to do is get off the pills. Then and only then will you see if there is REAL pain from your injuries.
      Sign up and get the recipe we have here for withdrawal support.

  13. Jackie G. says:

    Hi everyone, So sorry I haven’t been on in a while. But I’m going through a nasty divorce. I promise to d better from here on out !
    I hope everyone is doing well and hanging in there. Stay strong everyone!
    Much love, Jackie

    1. Bruce S. says:

      Dearest Jackie,
      I am devastated that your hubby is doing such a thing but it was possible: not inevitable. Some family members don’t do too good when it comes to responding to something that is taboo. Is it an indication that he is harboring a resentment that you have kept something from him? If that’s the case, ask him what is the deep-seeded problem. Is he resentful that you have to take control of your life and weakness. You must tell him that all re-habs want you to concentrate on you and put most other things on hold. He has to be made to understand that without his understanding and help, you could relapse. He needs to be strong for you as well as for the family.
      My heart goes out to you because my daughter is 8 months into a separation she tried to stop. The male person has gone back to using and lives in a development project where drugs, muggings, and perversion abounds. He is an accomplished liar and has avoided the requirements of a court order to be tested for drug use. He uses any or all excuses to not go and has now endangered his custody rights with little Logan. The little gimper just turned 5 and is all twisted around and doesn’t know wherein the truth lies. There is a contempt of court hearing on the 27th of March. I hope the judge slams him as hard as he has slammed my kin.
      Anyhow, you keep up the good fight and seek professional help if money will allow. Even so, try some government agencies first as they have a plethora of services that we taxpayers fund.
      Stay true to yourself and keep on, keepin on.
      With all the love I have,
      Bruce

  14. Tommy says:

    Shannon hi and hang in there it gets hard but YOU CAN do this it gets hard its still a battle for me yet I fight remeber we are all here for you so get on here when you need and we will respond and yes when your spouse dont get it it makes it hard for me I got on here when I needed to talk IT HELPED alot I hope to here from you please let us know how you are doing
    love Tommy

  15. shannon says:

    Tommy,
    helloi found this website looking for some help with opiate withdrawl. n i read your story.this is my first day goin through it.my husband does not understand either. so i know how r hard that makes it! your story has given me hope that i to can make it through this. i know it is goin to b a long battle.but it can b done.i want to say thanks for the inspiration in your posts ! n good luck . if u would like to talk i am here. i know it helps to talk to someone who is in the same situation .

    1. JP says:

      Shannon let me first say congratulations on ur first day. It’s gonna probably gonna get harder as you go on. But you can do it. I read in ur post that your husband doesn’t understand I’m not trying to be cold or anything but did ur addiction start as medical or recreation? If there is any way to get support from him or someone else it would help out alot. When I went through all of this my wife was a great help even though all the hell I had put her and my girls through she still stood by me. Just dig in there you can do this! Do yourself a favor and read d through all the posts it will help. We are here if you need us

    2. Bruce S. says:

      Shannon,
      I’m here because we all need each other and I certainly want to help you in your time of adversity. I’m over 250 days clean and sober and I went through the same sh!t you did. It was not fun in the least. Like JP, I too had a hard time coping but with the help of my therapists, my wife, and the love of Christ, I made it and you will too. You have to keep telling yourself, ” I have value: I am worth saving “. Baby, do what Jp said and read through as many posts as it takes to see where we have been and where you can go too. Peace and tranquility can come only if you allow it. You must stay in touch with us because we really care about our family. If one suffers we all suffer. If one rejoices, we all rejoice. Don’t sell yourself shortbecause you can do it.
      Stay in touch with us as we all want to help you my young sister.
      with all the love I have,
      Bruce S.

      1. Bruce S. says:

        Shannon,
        How ya doin, Pilgrim?
        I want anyone I have talked to on this site to know, I had both of my computers re-programmed because of Trojan-Horse viruses. I lost a ton of sh!t that I covet: pictures, letters, my war novel, and a bunch of contacts.
        I hope you are progressing with your recovery. Life hands us some pretty tough nuts to break open, but with God’s help we overcome. Do you have any specific problems we can help you with today? Please feel free to call on us any time at all. We love you and will go out of our way to help. You know that!
        With all the love I have,
        Bruce S.

  16. Tommy says:

    got up to day did not get much sleep but this morning was not as bad as most but as the day went on it seemed to get harder. I then went to my mom and dads {they dont know] so it was hard need to here good job or something but they dont know. Anyway I work tomarrow and I work in the public so it will not be easy and my work is not easy. I work for my self mostly HVAC but also pluming and electerical remodleing everything with houseing so wish me luck.
    Love tommy

    1. Jackie G says:

      Hang in there tommy!! By the way you are doing a great job!
      Jackie

    2. bruce S. says:

      Tommy,
      Good Job !! Keep up the good work. It might interest you to know that I have been doing electrical, hvac, and plumbing contracting for over thirty years, so I can lend an ear if you need any advice. Working will be the best therapy for you right now, and will keep your mind off the doom and gloom. Keep on , keepin on, Youngblood. Stay in touch when ever you can.
      with all the love I have,
      Bruce S.

    3. JP says:

      Hey Tommy I was just wondering how you were holding up?

      1. Bruce S. says:

        I too, was wondering what the flip was going on. I haven’t gotten any word from any of you yoyos. I miss talking to y’all. I hope everything and everyone is alright. I get a heads-up from the site when someone posts but not for a couple weeks. Everybody hang tough. Especially you Tommy. You are at a critical stage and you have to stay on the straight and narrow. Yo? Talk to you soon.
        with all the love I have ,
        Bruce

  17. Tommy says:

    Bruce,glad you had a good weedend and on top of that you was able to say no I quit drinking about a year ago and apple pie was my drink of choice. Had a chance to drink 2weeks ago at applebees when my wife went to bathroom and I wanted to bad but said no wife just about died when I did not order me a drink.For me this is harder and yes I have to keep telling myself no! no!! no!!! The fight goes on and I have to work this week so it will not be easy. Right now my legs will not stop moveing cant get sleep and my mind is still at war not as bad but still not easy.well got to go for now but want to say thank you! thank you!! thank you!!! .
    Keep strong love,Tommy

    1. Bruce S. says:

      Tommy,
      How are you, Man? Let me know how you are. I haven’t spoken to you for a while and I am nervous about you. I ain’t gunna let you slip. Write soon.
      With all the love I have,
      Bruce

  18. Tommy says:

    Bruce I have only chatted with you Jackie Larry and JP . But I hope they are all ok .I want to say sorry about my typeing. The shakes make me type every thing twice I will go to push K and hit W yes it that bad and really how dose that happen.Also to think of you and your kid when you went fishing is a big reminder not to go back. I so wish I took a video of yesterday it was that good. the croud went wild wish you jackie larry and JP was there.Today Idont know why but Im really wanting bad I know it will pass but the war is going on in my head bad is it cause of the shakes leg cramps and legs will no stop moveing the back pain is killing me too. Anyway I hope the day gets better and I hope you are doing good Huge that little man for me ….Love Tommy

    1. Bruce S. says:

      Tommy,
      I must tell you that this is a very dangerous time for you. You are feeling bad and you are tempted to use ” just once ” to feel a little better. I tell you the truth when I say that can’t happen. Your mind is fickin with you and is trying to get you to put it on ” welfare “. It wants all the easy stuff but doesn’t want to work for it . The brain makes it’s own painkillers called endorphins, and if it can get something else to do it, for it, well that just makes it so much easier for the brain. We are creatures of habit and we all take the easy way out every once-in-a- while. When we’re on drugs, the brain has a skate and makes us believe all is well: until we start acting stupid and crazy around our ” Peeps “. Then the sh!t hits the fan. We go into detox/rehab and it hurts: bad. You are almost out of the woods, and to fick up now would be most distressing to a lot of people.
      I went to a barbeque in Belton, S.C. yesterday and I had a really nice day. It was cold but sunny and the pork was ” delish “. I noticed that I was shaking pretty bad and was embarassed a little. I dealt with it and finished the food. They were passing around some shine and found myself wanting some. After almost 250 days C&S, I told myself, ” No fickin way “. I went outside into the cold just to say NO! That’s what you have to do youngblood. Dig your heels in and fight!!
      I better git goin cause I gotta git to the S.S.I office in Belmont, N.C. to get things straightened out with my account.
      Y’all git after it, an stay grounded, y’hear? I’ll see how you’re doing after a while.
      with all the love I have,
      Bruce

      1. Jackie G says:

        Tommy , Bruce is right dig in and don’t give up!! Its really hard to pass it up but I know you can do it!We all have our moments of weakness but just remember how far you have come! Hang in there and if you need to talk you have my number! Stay strong,
        Love Jackie

  19. Tommy says:

    well it was a good game we won in doubble overtime and I found It was a great up liftting for me I have to do this for me and every one on here and now my team it was very very hard today but I made it I was thinking or you all Bruce Jackie and Larry Jp and I so wish you all was there I feel now Im doing this!!! and can someone tell me when the shakes will go away ?? It was very hard to stand and I was shakeing bad but I kept moveing so no one would see and I was very embarrased. well need to go now Im dead I love you all and remeber I owe this to you for helping me win this Fight and its not over!!!Tommy

    1. Jackie G says:

      Tommy thats Great!!! Keep up the GREAT WORK!!! I sent you a email so that you have my email address!
      Jackie

    2. Bruce S. says:

      Tommy,
      I can’t tell you how proud we all are of you! The shakes may not disappear for quite a while. I’ve been C&S for 245 days now and I still shake like a dog sh!ttin razorblades. Those drugs have damaged nerve endings throughout your body and it has to regenerate alternative nerve synapses in order to generate decent nerve responses to the brain. The thing is that a good amount of those drugs will be stored in your fat tissues and only time and exercise will clean them out. They may rear their ugly heads once in a while and cause you to shake and shiver. It’ll pass . Don’t forget to use lemon juice to help flush your system. I made up a drink I can’t get enough of now. I use orange juice, gingerale, and cran-grape in equal amounts. I usually make a gallon at a time. It sure tastes great. Try it. You won’t be able to get enough of it.
      You have made me especially happy today when you said you had things to do with your daughter. When Stephanie was 10 y.o. I took her fishing with her little girlfriend. I took some video and I have it till this day. I cry when I watch it because she and my little g-son mean everything now and I don’t want to miss seeing the little guy grow up. You have made immeasurable progress my youngblood and your family will give you strength. Keep up the good fight and have faith.
      Let us know what we can do.
      Just a quick question. Has anybody gotten any responses from Aimee, Pat, Jp, Bart, Tara, Pat, Bryce, or Logger? I hope they are all o.k. The Bible says that 10,000 angels rejoice when someone comes to God . I would rather die 10,000 deaths than to lose one of our family. I hope they contact us soon.
      I’ll catch up with Y’all later.
      with all the love I have,
      Bruce S.

      blstreeter@yahoo.com

      1. Jackie G says:

        Bruce you are the SWEETEST!!! Jp was on here the other day. I haven’t heard from anyone else tho. I’m hoping they are so happy and busy that they just haven’t had the time to come on!!!
        Sending LOTS of love your way!!
        Jackie

  20. Tommy says:

    OH yea also GO BLACK TEAM LOL

  21. Tommy says:

    everyone after a night of sleep 4 hours only ogt one hour lastnight. Well anyway still strong and still not easy but better legs ran all night . well have to go its 10 and my girl has a basketball game at 11 and guess what Im the coach. just hope no one sees my shakes thanks to every one on here today will be easier and I will be calm love you all and we thank you!!! .tommy

  22. Tommy says:

    hi jackie thanks for the encouragement I fell like Im at home on here my email is tommy.potter@rocketmail.com if you want to email me you too Bruce it might be easier dot know but I will post soon to tell you all about my day

  23. Bruce S. says:

    Tommy,
    I had to tell my wife to ” talk to the hand ” when I cleaned up. We used to argue over the smallest things and she’d call my doctor buddy and he would call me. Sometimes he would come to my house and try to anylize me. He’s a bone doctor! Anyway you must try to control your anxieties and temper when you talk to your wife. She has never gone through what you are going through. She doesn’t uderstand the physical or mental anguish that you hace and will have to continue to deal with. This is a fight to the end of your life. I realized it very soon after discharge from Retreat. The temptation is and will always be there. I fight it every day. I gave up booze, cigarettes, and coffee as well as drugs. I also have to deal with my daughter’s problem with the scum-bag (former) son-in-law in Charlotte, N.C and selling the house in Syracuse, N.Y.
    I still have God and his power. I know that if you call on him, he’ll help you just like he helped me. I ain’t no preacher so I’ll just leave it alone.
    You keep trying youngblood and don’t let dispair get to you. You have more value and worth than you can imagine. Let me know if there is anything I might be able to do for you. O.K.?
    with all the love I have,
    Bruce S.

  24. tommy says:

    Bruce sorry you are haveing so much problems I dont Know any of the policys on here can we put our email on here ??? and your post the other day mad me laugh so hard thanks I needed that and Jackie Im in Kentucky (no jokes bruce) and its very cold here too its 26 out right now and it 1pm just a week and a half ago it was 60 out the up and down in temp. kills me to so to you all know alittle better todoy got some sleep no alot but some and I think It was needed bad I still have the shakes is that normal my legs are so tired from spasms so with all I have going on I know I sound like a real catch Lol today is looking up still want some meds but dont want to go back still up and down but when Im down I just say Ill be up soon or in a bad mood so odd never went through anything like this before it sucks dont want to get up and move yet but I an going to make my self once again and Larry getting away to be alone is what I need and how do you explain that to my wife she has never been where we have but she is a good one hate that I have hurt her but I want to argue for no reason just go off so getting away helps thanks for that advice Larry well the shakes are makeing me type everything two times so going to go hope not to let you all down and stay strong Thanks for beeing here for my. Tommy

    1. Jackie G says:

      Hang in there Tommy, I’m in South Carolina. You can add your email and I’ll send you mine that way if you want. My ex lives in Ky what part are you from? My husband doesnt know at all what I’ve been threw I’ve never told him , never really wanted to let him down like that! So I know how you feel!! For that matter none of my family knows. I’m sure they knew something was wrong but I never came out and said what it was. Just remember when you get mad who your mad at. Its not her that your mad at, your mad at yourself. We all tend to hurt the ones we love the most. She knows you love her and thats all that matters. My husband didnt know why I needed the time to myself but he knew I needed it and gave it to me. And I’m sure we all look like great catches on here lmao!!! Tommy we all know how you feel, we have all been there. Those body pains will start to go away soon. walk walk walk is all i can say the more the better! Remember your worth it and your family is worth it! Hang in there sweetie!!!
      Jackie

    2. Bruce S. says:

      Tommy,
      How ya doin? Did you get the letters I wrote? Just askin. Do me a small favor, would ya? When you type, please put in some periods somewhere. I am 62 and it’s getting hard to read. It’ll make it easier for this old fart. Did I say, old? Must be that fart has clouded my brain. Old is never discussed in the Streeter household.
      Stay loose Youngblood.
      with all the love I have,
      Bruce S.

  25. Bruce S. says:

    Tommy,
    This sh!t sucks. I’m so fickin mad I can’t see straight !
    I’ve written three letters to you and they all must have timed out or something. Is there a word limit here? I write a long, detailed letter and BAM!! it disapears.

    STAY STRONG!! long walks at night, hot baths , bananas, anti-acids. Pepto for diarreha, cut down on coffee, cut back on tobacco : it causes the stomach to produce more acid.
    I better send this now before it dumps me.
    with all the love I have,
    Bruce

    If this happens again, I’ll post my e-mail if that’s against policy

    1. Larry C. says:

      Bruce, if you’re having a problem posting, copy the text before hitting the post button in case it happens again, then you can just paste it into the new post box.

    2. Bruce S. says:

      Larry,
      Thanks brother. It pays to have a caring family.
      I get halfway or two-thirds of the way through and it just disapears: Instantly.
      U da man!
      with all the love I have,
      Bruce

  26. tommy says:

    HI everyone sorry I did not get a chance to post yesterday but it was so bad I relly wanted to die and I wanted to find something BUT no I stayed strong but not easy Im still up and down felt like a losser a wast like nothing and I was but Im still trying how long befor you stop fighting your self will the war in my mind ever end I want to say this is not just for me now you all have helped me its also for you guys and jackie wish I could huge you all tomarrow will be better I hope thank you all so much Tommy

    1. Larry C. says:

      Tommy, have you tried any of the suggestions I gave you? like going to some NA meetings? Or getting the Melissa supreme and some of the other vitamins and supplements in the recipe we have on here for withdrawal? it will definitely help how you feel.
      Stay strong, but get some more support like from NA.
      Larry

      1. tommy says:

        thanks Larry but there is no NA meetings close to me and I dont have the extra cash right now to get any thing but being on here has helped me more than you know makes me fell normal in a way cause everyone on here has beeen where I am now and you all dont judge me this is my NA but so much more this is helping me ask my wife I cant even talk to her cause she has not been hooked on pills or anything and Im not the kind of person to talk about feelings yet look at me on here I wish we could all meet my new family love it

        1. Larry C. says:

          Ok here’s some more suggestions, get some bananas and eat a few each day, through out the day, drink lots of water. Get some ibuprofen for the aches but the bananas will help that too. Walk a bit each day, more than you would normally even if it’s just to get out and get away from people and be by yourself. The more exercise you get the faster you will clean your system out. Also drink fresh squeezed lemon juice in ice water. that will help your body clean itself out and alkalize your blood and reduce more aches and pains. Even these little things will help. Take hot baths before bed or showers if you prefer, they will help relax your body and calm you r mind. and help you sleep. If sleep is there yet.
          Stay strong.

    2. Jackie G says:

      I’m so PROUND of you for hanging in there!!! I know you can do this!! You so have this!!!That war in your head will get less and less. Right now thats all you head is thinking about because your body is wanting it so badly. The withdraws should be coming to a head pretty soon! But ha man you have done just a GREAT job so far!! Stay strong your almost there. !!!!! I have been thinking about you all day! Just know that we are here for.
      Jackie

      1. tommy says:

        thankyou Jackie you dont know how much it means to me you just beeing here for me its hard for me to type right now got the shakes bad wish I could say more but I have to make it short I thinking of you to it helps me get throw each day dont want to let you down huges for you Tommy

    3. Jackie G says:

      Tommy yuo dont always have to reply back I know how your feeling, sometimes you only feel like coming on here and reading and that just fine we will all understand!!! Hoping you feel a little better today. This weather is killing me! It’s 21 outside, i so dont want to get up and get dressed! Just the other week I was walking around in shorts and now im freezing with two layers of cothes on.. whats up with that??? I so hate winter! Anyway I hope you have a great day today! Stay strong and know that we are here for you!!
      Jackie

    4. Bruce S. says:

      Tommy,
      I can tell you are having a hard time. Your typing is off the hook. Do what Larry said and you’ll have a little easier time of it. Use that walk to get to the store for them bananas. Ditto with the lemon juice. I used to walk at 2-3 in the morning and then take the hottest bath I could stand with Epsom salts. There is a limit on the sitz-bath time . After 20 minutes the heat won’t do anything more, so just go and try to get some sleep. Put blankets on the windows if you have to to keep the light from possibly hurting your eyes. Did you try mood music? It really helped me. Try to stay off the cofffee and curtail you tobbaco use ( if you smoke ). Nicotine will cause your stomach to produce more acid and will keep you from advancing with your recovery. Get some acid reducer such as Tagamet, Prilocec OC, or if you can see a doctor, some Nexium.
      You are so close now, don’t even think of trying to ”
      sneak one in “. It won’t work! We all know it. If you can get to an AA meeting, do it. I know what they say about us, but we need support just like they do no matter what.
      ??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
      You are not going to believe this but this is the letter I was working on this morning. I was typing away and poof it was gone. My Grandson was playing on PBSKids a little while ago and he just walked away to play with his IPAD. The computer went to sleep and I started to look for a new hard drive for my laptop. I woke up my daughter’s computer and there was my letter to you.
      Anyway I hope you get this one along with the one from this noon.
      Stay tough.
      withall the love I have ,
      Bruce

  27. tommy says:

    thank you Bruce Jp and Jackie had a very bad day going on just 3 hours of sleep low on cash or I would have tried some of your suggestions just hanging in there I did make my self get out some today and it was hard but Im truely have a war going on in my mind and everything hurts on top of that I want you all to know I was thinking of you all today and it helped and at first I thought something like this was not for me now I find myself wanting to keep looking to see if anyone has posted you all thank you a thousand times thank you

    1. Larry C. says:

      The hair on my arm used to hurt like hell when I was kicking…sucked.

    2. Jackie G says:

      Hang in there Tommy,Its gonna get better I promise Your on what day three now? It will start to turn around after today!!!! It will get better and better as the days go by! Just remember who your doing this for(you)and you are worth it!! I remember laying on the sofa just wanting someone to kill me because i hurt so much! Just think in a few more days your going to be free from all the shit that was holding you down. your going to be able to take a trip with your child without having to worry if your going to run out of pills.Plus you will have alot more cash on your pocket after this!Hang in there and know that we are all here for you!!!!
      Jackie

    3. Bruce S. says:

      Tommy,
      Jackie ain’t bullsh!ttin about the extra cash. I did some really nice things for me, the wife, and the 4-1/2 y.o. grandson last summer. I lost my workman’s comp in October for not doing a concise
      ” work search “. I’m only 62 years old and have a wonderful chance of getting that ” door greeter ” position at Walmart just west of Charllote, N.C. The thing is, I’ll have to commute from Syracuse, N.Y. and back everyday but I got money to burn now that I’m on S.S. disability. That $1,265.00 per month is gonna come in real handy paying the gasoline bill. I’m not sure but I think that’s tax deductible if it’s used fir a work search. I’ll get back to you on that.
      If you’re done laughing, sew your sides back up and fight like hell against the ” killer of all good people “. You can and must succeed. We all did and the proof of it is, we’re all still alive ! Stay with it and let us know if we can do anything for you.
      Love with all I have,
      Bruce

    4. Jackie G says:

      Ha tommy just come on to check in on you and to see your doing today!! I went to the dr today to see about stopping those nasty cigarettes and was told to please not to try and stop with them right now. WOW a dr. telling me to keep on smoking thought I would never hear that one in my life time. He said stopping the smokes this soon to the pain pills could knock me back down. So I will take his word on it and not stop for now just cut back a little at a time.Anyway I’m hoping today has been alittle better for you!! Make sure you keep getting out even if its just for a walk! Hang in there !!!
      Jackie

  28. JP says:

    Tommy, How are you holding up little brother? Have you gotten any sleep? Tylenol. pm or melatonin helped me out if only for a couple of hours but any sleep is better than none at all. And like Bruce said bandanas and plenty of fluids. Hang in there we are here if you need us.

  29. Bruce S. says:

    Tommy ,
    I tried to write to you last night but something went wrong and my mail didn’t get delivered to you. It’s only the 4th time though. My wonderful Dell PC fried it’s mother board and the hard drive in late November and I just got a junker for $100.00. So far it is working but it gets hot and slows way down. I take the hard drive out and let it cool down and it seems to pick up on performance.
    I was telling you not to drink sugared drinks as they raise you metabolism and make you sick. My doctor told me to buy Pedialyte for children and it would be more beneficial for hurting muscles. Don’t disregard a generous supply of water to keep your muscles from cramping up at night. Do try regular Tylenol and warm milk. I really helps me. Do you have trouble starting to fall asleep? Concentrate on relaxing your jaw muscles. Your jaw muscles are attached to you face and scalp muscle and if they are tense they make your head feel like a migraine is on deck. Get some soothe music. Lay on your back and concentrate and relax every muscle from your toes, to your legs, to your chest, to your shoulders, to your arms, to your hands and fingers all the way to your head, lips, ears, nose, and anything you can think of. Relaxing all you can will help induce sleep and relax muscles.

    If you can, eat a couple of eggs every day this will increase protein intake. Bananas will help with phosphorous intake. In general, take vitamins !!
    I read your post a little while ago and felt so ashamed I couldn’t respond to your plee for help. Please forgive me.
    When one of us hurts, we all hurt. We are a family with pains and concerns and we need each other. Yo?
    Please don’t ever think you’re alone: Larry, Jackie, Aimee, JP, Tara, Pat and a plethora of others who know what you’re going though. Write us and we will be there for you.
    Love with all I have
    Bruce

  30. tommy says:

    jackie I also want to say Im proud of you sounds like you have done good and came so far I hope you have a good day I know and you know how mine will be going to try to sleep now its 6am

  31. tommy says:

    thank you JackieG you made me cry to know that you will take the time to get back to me and check to see if I have posted it MEANS A LOT to me you and JP and larry thank you well its 5am where I live and I have yet to sleep tonight legs are killing me my back hurts and I even think my finger nails hurt lol all I can think of right now is where is my pills yet Im staying strong well as strong as I can I have a 9 year old girl who needs her dad back beeing dad again so thank you JackieG and JP you have helped and Im shure she would like to thankyou too when I get over the mood swings that is I want you to know I am trying my best no mater how it plays out I will give it my all

    1. Larry C. says:

      Get some lemons and squeeze the juice into some fizzy water and drink that several times a day. It will help with detoxing and with alkalizing your body to get rid of the pain.

    2. Jackie G says:

      Ha there, sorry about not getting back to you until now. My son has been working on my pc all day. I think he has out whatever it was making it shut down. Anyway Sleep the first week is so hard, I didnt get my first good sleep until week two. A few hours here and there but nothing over four hours. It will come tho!!! And thank you for saying your pround of me that means alot! Remember shoot for just 24 hours nothing more. Have you gone out for a walk yet that seems to help with the sleep. Heres hoping you have a goodnite and a great day tomorrow!!
      Jackie

  32. tommy says:

    thank you all for the coments it was hard for me to just post on here then I was mad that I did and mad no one was on here like I said going crazy in my own mind I made my self take a drive it helped some well I made a lot of stops for the runs of corse dont think I will be getting out soon until this passes anywas god I fell like there is a war in my mind with my self so lost and mad and down

    1. Larry C. says:

      Get the Melissa Supreme, it will help with most everything you are going through. Day 2 is pretty bad, Day 3, get through it and you should be over the hump. It gets better after that.

    2. JP says:

      Tommy, this might sound a little weird but when I was going through what you are going through. I watched alot of cartoons. You are about the same age so we watched alot of the same stuff I’m sure. I watched alot cartoons from my childhood it took me to a better place it took my mind off of it. I know it sounds weird but its like Tom and Jerry saved me from myself.

    3. Jackie G says:

      Glad to see you hung in there today. If we don’t get back to you right away its only because we don’t get the post right away! But I promise someone will check their email and we WILL reply to you as soon as we get it! JP is right you have to find something to do even if it watching tv,talking to one of us! Posting on here helped me alot as it has for many of us! Shoot for one day at a time nothing more nothing less! Those days will start flying by and before you know you will feel better. I was taking as many percocets a day that I could sometimes it would be over 40 a day. I had to retrain my brain to work without them fine other ways to easy the pain. Go for a walk like Larry said. I started out walking then went to running after I started to feel better. Next month will be my first 10k run ever. I still take thing day by day.But each day gets better and better! Before you know it you will be clean and on the path to a new life and happy new life. Not a slave to the pills. Each day is easyer I know I keep saying that but that was the only way I made it through. Keep coming back and telling us how you are feeling . I will make sure I check my email for the next week or so three to four times a day just for you! Hang in there we are here for you!!!!!!!!!
      Jackie

    4. tommy says:

      thank you JP Im trying that now its hard to sit still Im rolling in my chair cant sit still so mad at my self right now but Im trying to laugh at my self so I dont kill my self this is so hard but I want to thank you for being there for me I need it I hope to sleep some tonight did it take you along time to get sleep
      Im up down and back up in no time

  33. tommy says:

    every hour is getting harder but I need to do this at least I keep telling my self I NEED TO DO THIS I feel like the little engine that could god help me

    1. tommy says:

      is anyone on here anymore help

      1. Larry C. says:

        Have you tried reading some of the responses on the posts? there’s are several hundred, maybe a thousand comments and responses now on several posts.
        Also check into the recipe I put together on here, it really helps with depression and anxiety.

        Do some exercise, I know it’s going to be painful at first but even just walking will make you feel better.

      2. Jackie G says:

        Tommy hang in there.. Larry once told me that it was two days i didnt have to do again unless i wanted to . Trust me I never want to do them again as i’m sure want as well. We have all been right were you are now and we all know how VERY hard it is. Go get yourself some imodium for the runs , my dr told me if i had to i could take up to 11 a day and trust I had to!!!

    2. Jackie G says:

      tommy we are all here if you need us. get some imodium for the runs take up to 11 a day if need be, I did!! Remember that we have all been there and know the hell you are going threw. It will pass I promise!! If you need me I’m here!
      Jackie

    3. JP says:

      Tommy, you are doing great,just dig in brother you can do this.just think about the reward in the end.just remember that 72 hours you are shooting for. Be strong.

  34. tommy says:

    thanks larry Im going crazy in my own mind and dont know what to do so down right now just hopeing to stay strong reading other post helped me yesterday I felt I should post today so glad just to see a reply thanks

  35. tommy says:

    hi im 33 been on percocet for 6 years Im on day 2 going nuts running to bathroom and it sucks took off work for a week will I be able to go back in a week? I dont want to slip up on this I really need to get off of them I hate my self and need to be me again.

    1. Larry C. says:

      Yeah you should be able to go back to work by then! Good Luck.

  36. Bart says:

    Hi there! I was hoping to get some advice. I have been addicted to pain killers for well over a year. Mostly oxy or roxycontin but not limited too. Basically will take anything i can get my hands on. I realize i have to quit this habit and it has completely sucked the life out of me. I dont even feel like myself anymore. I have hidden this problem from my entire family and friends. I am on day one of detox and really need some support. I am a strong person. I am hoping to get thru the physical stuff in one week….Is that possible?? Does anyone have any good advice to give me?? thanks

    1. Larry C. says:

      Hi Bart, it’s possible, try reading the other comments and the comments on this post:
      http://www.howtogetoffpainkillers.com/how-long-does-opiate-withdrawal-last/

      Good luck,
      Larry

    2. Bruce S. says:

      Hi Bart,
      I am sorry you have to go through this but it is necessary. The most important thing to remember is, ” You have Value “!!!
      You mean more than you can know. Your family needs you desperatly, so don’t make any compromises with you recovery. Don’t tell yourself you can cheat a pill here and there. All of us know it can’t be done. You’re just fooling yourself. In for a penny- in for a pound. It’s all or nothing. We know what it takes to succeed and it is damned awful hard. You need to feed your body with all kinds of liquids such as fruit juices and power drinks to replace those you are naturally expelling along with those toxins. Eat nuts, grain cereals, and anything with fibre. Make sure you include apples, oranges, and bananas for potassium.
      You have been wrecking your muscles and now they need repairs.
      You have also have been hurting your intestines and lower bowels. I had an instance when I did not have a b.m. for 5 days and went to the ER for treatment. I struggled for 1-1/2 hrs and when the dam burst, I gave birth to what felt like a 2×4, a foot long!! I know of a man who died because he didn’t keep up with a stool softener regimine. His case was on TV DR.G. His bowels burst inside him. He had no chance.
      Please take good and close care of yourself. It’s imperative you do so.
      Dude, I’m trying to put the fear of God in you cause it ain’t no picnic. We want to help you in any way we can so trust what we say cause we know. Do what Larry said and get some of Larry’s recipe.
      I am 225 days “CAS” and it was easy after the first 2-3 weeks. I’m a happening MOFO now and I am damned proud of it. I hate to say it but I can even sit next to my wife when she has her nightly glass of beer: sometimes wine. The last two months of holidys were easy because I had Jesus and the guts to say ” NO “! You will find that it gets easier just a little everyday. I gave up smoking , drinking, and painpills and I feel like King Kong.
      You can do it too, so just hang tough.
      Let any of us know if we can help. OK? OK.
      With all the love I have.
      Bruce S.

    3. JP says:

      Hello Bart, all of the information on this timeline is helpful. It helped me get through the worst time of my life. Just hang in there and dig down deep you can do it.everybody on here was a big help.

  37. Jack says:

    I’m on day 55 of a percocet/vicodin withdrawal and in the last week or so, I seem to have gotten a bad case of PAWS. Every morning I’ve been waking up anxiety ridden and completely nauseated and weak. The anxiety and nausea seem to get better over several hours as the day progresses but my mornings are complete hell. Anyone have any experience with this? Any advise? I’m fighting like hell to stay off the poison but this morning sickness is sending shivers to my soul and really testing my resolve. Any idea on how long this lasts? A little background, I’m 31 male used vicodin/percs for over a year. Got clean for 6 months, then relapsed for 4 months. This prolonged withdrAwal hell is so much worse the 2nd time around.

    1. Larry C. says:

      day 55? are you totally off everything? You shouldn’t be havin’g any physical smptoms, but PAWS can take months even years to get over. The more exercise you do the quicker they will go away.
      Mine lasted almost 2 years. Do a detox or clean with juice or something to help get that crap out of your fat tissues.

      also try the Melissa Supreme for the anxiety and nausea.

      Larry

    2. Jackie G. says:

      Hi Jack. I have to agree with Larry get some of the Melissa Supreme for the anxiety it worked GREAT for me..I can’t say I dont still think about it because I do. I found a pill in my car today and it took everything I had to flash it. But I did. Keep up the great work and just remember who you are doing this for(your so worth it)!! Best wishes and Merry Christmas!
      Love Jackie

    3. Bruce S. says:

      Jack,
      What they said!! Also make an appointment with a doctor who has experience dealing with these kinds of symptoms. A lot of doctors just listen to you and prescribe something detrimental to your plight. Ask specifically about Nurontin, Roboxin, and Celexa. These medications are designed to releive symptoms such as PAWS and sleeplessness. You have value and remember: Your worst enemy is you! Call on us at any time because we really care.
      LOve you with all I have ,
      Bruce S.

    4. aimee says:

      hi jack, im going thru oxycodone withdraw and I can tell u this website has helped so much stay posted and ppl will give u the hope to get thru it. I have been taking subutek and kpins to keep my symptoms to a minimum. if ur able to go to the doc for those that’s my advise. this is day 6 for me and I haven’t even had to take tek. if u hang in there everything will work out and just like bruce told me the days of pain u have endured, u will never have to feel or go thru again unless u want to. the pain is worse the 2nd time bc u were on it longer. if u were to relapse again it will be that much more worse. hang in there please. we all deserve a healthy normal life! if uve made it this far keep going! that’s a long road of pain to go thru for nothing. remember this! u will be in my prayers. keep in touch these ppl r tru inspirations. GOOD LUCK

  38. aimee says:

    hi, I am 20 years old and I was addicted to roxys for a year ans a half. I graduated to opana 40s for another year after that. I couldn’t take the pain I felt when I couldn’t find, so I started taking methadone. I had to take 100mgs a day for the pain to subside. I couldn’t take it anymore and started taking opana again so I could then start subutek. this is my 2nd day taking only that and kpins. I feel ok not great of course, but I was wondering how long should it take before I dnt have to take anything anymore, and how will I kno I can stop. I do them as soon as I wake up every morning bc im not going to wait until its unbarable. can anyone give an estimate to my concerns? my fiancé is also an addict and has done the same as I. but for some reason its a lot harder for him to not buy. I know in his heart he wants to quit he just doesn’t get what he needs from me as far as support bc I dnt kno what to say other then were gonna make it and have a real life together now, a happy one. can anyone give me some tips on how to persuade him to not buy the accational behind my bak pill? please help

    1. Larry C. says:

      I would suggest going to NA. The you will know if he really wants to quit. But it would also give you the support YOU need to stop.

    2. Jackie G. says:

      All you can do is tell him that your there for him. As far as how long well it’s diffrent for everyone Larry does have a timeline on here that helps out alot. Best of luck to the both of you! Its a hard road to go down . But once you get over that hump it is so worth the pain!! I have been clean for 79 days and it has been the BEST 70 days of my life! I never want to go back!! It takes alot of work tho even now!!!!

      1. Bruce S.at this moment and says:

        Jackie G.,
        I am so elated that you have come this far!!!!You are a true inspiration considering what you have been through. I am so happy for you I can barely sit still. Keep on, keepin on. You are feeling the true joy of life.
        LOve you with all I have,
        Bruce S.

        1. Jackie G. says:

          Ha Bruce, How have you been? It’s good to hear from you!! I have to say you are one sweet man!! Hope everything on your end is going well.. I’m looking forward to having my first clean christmas in over ten years!! I think I’m looking forward to it more than the kidos are. Keep intouch sweet guy!!
          Love always Jackie

            1. Jackie G. says:

              Thanks Larry and Merry Christmas to you !!!

      2. aimee says:

        oh yea and even better news I forgot to mention. my fiancé is sticking to the program as well. he is on full day with nothing else 2day and since im on day 3 ive been able to help and ive read some of the comments on here and things have been great. I think in the next week {hope I mean} this will be over. I will deff let u kno!

    3. Bruce S.at this moment and says:

      Aimee,
      Hey Doll,you have a lot to consider here.You have to decide if your life is worth destroying for the sake of a person who is destroying your very existance. You have to decide that nothing is as important as your own life. No-one can say when,how,or even if you are going to be successful in ridding your life of this malignant scourge that is so easy to get on but a ball-buster to get off. You have to tell yourself that you are the most important thing in your life rifght now and everything else is excess baggage.
      You have to get professional help and not the aquaintance that says he or she did this or that. You have to recognize that you, and only you, have this problem. It’s not anybody elses problem. You are the one that has to say, ” I am an addict and I have to stop now or I will die “. Once you do that you will be free to say you have faced up to it and now is the time to beat it. If that person in your life means what he says about loving you, he also has to own up to the same facts,now!! ” I love you ” in the bedroom doesn’t mean what it should 46 years from now. I took the same junk you do and I decided that I wasn’t going to through my life with my wife, down the drain for anything or anybody.
      You have the tools available to do what’s right and you know what has to be done, so git after it.
      You may think I’m bullshitting you but everyone on this site knows and says the same thing: You are worth something and worthy to be saved!!! WE ALL LOVE YOU even if we never laid eyes on you so do what needs to be done and we will be just a keystroke away.
      In my case,” God be with You ” means Jesus too. He is the God of my understanding.
      Love you with all I have,
      Bruce S.

      1. Jackie G. says:

        Aimee, follow what Bruce says!! He has been around. All of us on here have . This site was my saving grace, I hope it will be for you as well! Like Bruce said tho your life is SO WORTH IT!!!

        1. aimee says:

          thank all of u for the help and even tho we dnt kno each other, it feels god to have someone to tlk to. this is my 3rd day and I just wanna go buy so bad. I wanna change more then anything in this world it has ruined what was suppose to be my best years. I start school in less then a month and I wanna be clear minded and have a good head on my shoulders. but I didn’t really taper down and I was wondering if I just did a little would it affect me that bad pain wise? I dnt kno if its anything but a closer issue but its the only thing on my mind

          1. Larry C. says:

            This is the hump, get over today and you’ve got it licked. This past 3 days you won’t have to go through again. Unless you want to. 🙂
            It gets better from here on out.
            Good luck and Merry Christmas
            Larry

          2. Bruce S. says:

            Aimee,
            I wouldn’t slap you, but I would hug the stuffing out of you.
            Bruce. S

            1. aimee says:

              haha good to kno 🙂 about the slapping! u’ll be proud of me! I made it! I realized that I feel a lot better already and that im strong. this is a really good place that im glad I found. larry, bruce, and Jackie u have all made me stay focused and reminding me of how wonderful my life is going to be. I feel so much more of myself coming bak thru and that’s the most fulfilling part. thank u all so much.

              I wish you a very Merry Christmas as well!
              you’re and inspiration and I cant wait to be one myself.
              thanks again

              1. Jackie G. says:

                I’m so VERY PROUD of you for sticking to your guns and not giving in!! I’m sorry it took me this long to get back to you.. Bruce is so right tho we need to go threw this pain to help us remember why we will never go back to the pills again. Its like having a little spot burned into your head and everytime you think about taking a pill your mind replays this very pain to you. I know mine does!!Take it from Bruce and I and Larry your pain WILL go away!!! I promise!!When it does it’s like taking your first baby steps all over again! You see the world threw new eyes and let me tell you what a GREAT world it is to see!! Keep up the good work girl we are all here for you if you need us!!
                Much love to you!!
                Jackie

              2. Bruce S. says:

                Aimee,
                I’m glad you can’t see my face as I am a really emotional man.
                I could not have gotten a better Christmas present. You folks mean so much that I hurt when you have a bad day. I pray everyday that all is well with you. I know about how much time I have and what a waste I have been. But I tell you the truth when I say you all have a better life than I had. I had a bad life and had no guidance except for a little old Italian grandmother or NANA. She instilled a sense of decency, honesty, respect for life, and a desire to do good, in me. Those qualities are often missing today but maybe just one person can kindle the spark and others can fan the flame. From what you all have said, I feel like I have been of service to my fellow mankind in some small way. It makes me feel good.
                I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.
                With all the love I have ,
                Bruce S.

    4. Bruce S. says:

      Aimee,
      No,No,No,No,No,No,No,No!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
      A thousand times NO!!
      You are 1/2 half way home, Baby. Don’t quit now!!! The physical pain you are having is a revolt of your body wanting to kick . It knows what to do but the psycological effects of the drugs are hard for your mind to contend with. If you give in like I did 2+ years ago you will have been defeated by yourself. I thought that I could take a little meds and it would be easier for me to cope. I was dead wrong. My body was a little boy throwing a tantrum and my mind was the aquiesing parent.
      The parent is in charge, not the child!! Don’t let the parent lose. You have to maintain the power and keep seeing this through to it’s gloriuos outcome. Believe me when I say (and Jackie G. will back me up ) it’s worth walking over broken glass or burning embers. The satisfaction of beating something as degrading as drug addiction is unimagineably heartlifting and self-fulfilling. That one pill will put you back on the path to self-distruction.
      If I could, I would reach through this computer and slap you silly. If anything, you need to see a real physician and not one of those pill doctors. You may need a low-dose Subutex once or twice a day like I did. Follow that up with Roboxin and Nuronton.
      I was cleaned up in 5 or 6 days: no more cravings and ready for a fight I knew I had a chance to win.
      Don’t give up on us, Baby. You are worth it.
      Let us know what you decide as we all want you to beat this thing.
      Love you with all I have,
      Bruce S.

  39. logger says:

    Hey guys keep up the good work. I am almost 72hrs for the third time in about 5mos. I cant seem to leave the percs alone I had two shoulder suguries last yr and back trouble my whole life it was about 5yrs ago that I was introduced to opiates and thought I found the fountain of youth. I have my own logging company and believe me the energy I got was incredible but for only a few months thats when I understood this stuff will eat you alive.
    Anyway I have lots of timber to cut and live in a small community and have to be at work and most of the time the pain physically and mentally is unbearable but I am determined this time to quit with this blog and Christ’s help. We can all do this WE HAVE to.

    1. Bruce S.at this moment and says:

      Logger,
      Hey mate(not Aussie ) I have to tell you now, that those percs feel great for a time but I know from experience that they make you muscles lose tone and resilience. I had 5 shoulder tears and a broken neck with 5 fused verts and a titanium cage for stabilization. I carried on with Oxy’s and percs for 2-1/2 years.
      When I kicked, I suffered for the next 6 months with back pain and muscle cramps. The meds had been masking the pain and when I stopped, my body revolted. I never went back for any meds except for Tylenol and ice. You are going to feel more pain than normal but that’s because you have been treating you body harshly and it is getting back at you. Treat it with 20 min hot packs then 20 min cold packs. Anything more than that is a waste of heat and cold and time. Keep your body filled with fruit juices such as a orange, pineapple, and grapefruit. Be sure to include a medium sized banana in you diet each day. Don’t let the “job” consume you or you will be doomed to repeat what you hve been going through again and again. Stay strong for Jesus and all of us.
      Love you with all I have ,
      Bruce S.

  40. Pat says:

    I have a question about liver toxicity. The most pills I ever took in a 24 hour period were 6 7.5/750 mg vicodins. That equals 4,500 mg’s of tylanal in a day. I guess liver toxicity can occur between 4,000 and 6000 mg’s in a day. I only exceeded 4,000 mg’s a day once. Anyone know if my liver is f*cd? I’m worried because I hear all these horror stories. Is everybody feeling ok with their livers?

    1. Larry C. says:

      How long ago was it? You’re still alive right?

      1. Pat says:

        It was 2 days ago. I fell off the wagon hard but am back on now, had a 1 day mess up, tottaly ashamed of myself and my stomach was hurting yesterday, not in my liver area but in other parts. I realized I’m an idiot and cannot do things like this if I want to live a long life. I can’t live like this anymore, anyway my stomach is still pretty upset, I believe it’s because of the boatload of Tylanol I put into my stomach. Anyone have this experience or know anything about it?

    2. Jackie G. says:

      You haven’t turn yellow on us right??? No really really dark urine right? If you can so no to all of those I think your going to be okay!!

      1. Jackie G. says:

        sorry ment to say (say) not so

        1. Pat says:

          No Jackie. Non of that just stomach soreness. So anyways, it’s been about 48 hrs clean now, back to the grind. More determined than ever to stop, how are you getting along Jackie?

    3. Bruce S.at this moment and says:

      Pat,
      Hey buddy, how ya doin? I have a friend that is an Orthopod and he says you have to intake 4000-5000 mgs for around ten days to start to see the effects of acetotox. I wouldn’t take it any longer than 1-2 days anyhow. I tried to get more “slow” by taking twice the dosage but ran out of meds much earlier. If you don’t get any benefit from it, don’t take more of it. If you don’t have any pain, don’t take it at all!!
      Stay in touch with us or a sponsor to keep from backin up.
      Promise us that you will, please. Your life is something we care about.
      LOve you with all I have
      Bruce S.

  41. Bryce says:

    Hi everyone, I’m in the same boat as a lot of you. I’ve been on 200g of oxys a day for 2 years due to my leg being shattered at work. I am struggling to get off it but my main problem is now I’ve stopped taking I cannot walk. I’m in Sydney, Australia and we don’t have the same range of medications as the USA. If anyone as any ideas let me know
    Thanks
    Bryce k

    1. Jackie G. says:

      Hi Bryce,
      Hows your leg now? you said in your post that you did this two years ago right? I know what you mean about if you stop taking them you want be able to walk. I had to have my back fused after being in a nasty car crash with a drunk driver who was under age at the time. Coming off the pain meds was not easy at all. However if you really want to you can do this. What kinds of other meds have you tryed? There are all kinds of other meds out there that can help you. But there are also those that never find anything else that works for them.Have you tryed PT? It has helped me ALOT! As well as motrin800mg which I;m on now.I also know that there are some that will be on the methadone for the rest of there life. And thats okay thats the only way they have a good life without ALOT of pain. Keep posting and we will all try to help out! Best of luck to you!!

      1. Bryce says:

        G’day Jackey thanks so much for replying so soon. I’m guessing PT is physiotherapy? Yep been doing that for as long as I’ve had the injury with no success. One of the main problems is the significant nerve damage wich I’m told cannot be fixed. Well at least in Australia. I have requested that my leg should be amputated with no positive responses from the many specialists I’ve seen. I have see so many drs which all have been less than helpfull. Have not heard of any of those med you mentioned and don’t like the idea of methadone. Worst thing is I used to play profession rugby league and my life has turned upside down. I will talk to more drs about the meds you mentioned and if I have to I’ll see you in the USA
        Thanks again

  42. Jennifer S says:

    These posts have encouraged me to try to stop. I need to, I feel like this drug is eating me alive. I’m only 8 hours clean, that’s not very much to brag about I know but I guess you have to start somewhere.

    1. Jackie G. says:

      Jennifer I think 8 hours is ALOT to brag about!! As Larry has told me thats 8 hours you don’t have to do again unless you want to!And I’m not sure about you but I don’t ever want to do them over!!I’m only at 362 hours,so I’m not turning back now! Just remember how you are doing this for and that your life is worth it! To be able to have control over your life and not have a med run it for you. These last few weeks have been hell, but it a hell I know I’m worth and so are you!! Keep up the GREAT WORK and keep post . I’m here if you need to talk!

      1. Jackie G. says:

        sorry ment to say who you are doing this for not how

    2. JP says:

      Jennifer, that is awesome that you are taking the first step
      Although 8 hours doesn’t seem like much we have all been there and we know what it’s like. Just hang in there everyone here has gone through this and we are here if you need to talk. It’s going to be rough but you can get through this.

    3. bruce S. says:

      Jen,
      You have taken the best footsteps of your life. 8 hrs. is like 8 brand-new baby steps.Today your life starts again so don’t give up. It will seem like you can’t possibly get through it but we all have. Do it now so you won’t have to be 62 years old when you have breakout; like me.
      We all know how rough it can be but I haven’t heard of anyone dying in the process. Hang tough and let any of us know what we can do to help. Remember: Hugs are better than drugs !!!

      Warmest regards IHS,
      Bruce S.

  43. Jackie G. says:

    Here is a song I want you all to check out. I make sure I hear it everyday. I hope it helps you guys as well…
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PoWQunKQElE&feature=related

    Just copy and past

    1. Jackie G. says:

      And once the storm is over you won’t remember how you made it through,
      how you managed to survive. You won’t even be suyr in fact whether the storm is really
      even over. But one things for cartain. When you come out of the storm you won’t be the same person who walked in…

    2. Jackie G. says:

      Just wanted to check in on everyone and see how your doing. Hope all is well and everyone is still working hard at staying clean. Hope to hear from you soon!

    3. JP says:

      Jackie, how are you holding up? How are you feeling?

      1. Jackie G. says:

        JP i’m doing really good how about you??

  44. Pat says:

    Hi. I was hospitalized in mid July for Viral Meningitis. I am a 31 yr old male. During my hospital stay I was given Vicodin 10’s and after for the next 2 1/2 months before the Dr cut me off. I’ve had problems with Vicodin abuse in the past and went through terrible recovery to get my lfe back. I really didn’t want to take them again but the meningitis induced headaches and pain were too much to handle. Anyways I’m on day 4 cold turkey. My question is is it common to have zero energy? I have been sleeping a ton and have no problems with insomnia but I’ve been waking up feeling like a 100 year old person with no energy. Is this common? I also have been fighting anxiety. I pray for us all and believe we can all beat this! I’ve gotten through it before and I will walk through this hell again!

    1. Larry C. says:

      Yes it is common! but you will live and you will come through the other end…it just takes time…

    2. Jackie G. says:

      Ha Pat, Hang in there !! I’m on day four now too going on day five. I have to say today has been my best day so far. Other than the lower back pain and my head hurting some I’m doing pretty darn good!! I’ll be thinking of you tomorrow and hoping you start feeling better as well!! Best of luck.

    3. Bruce S. says:

      How ya doin,Pat?
      I just thought I’d give you a shout and encourage you to hang on. I had all the classic withdrawal symptoms the same as you. The sleepiness, backpain, the bowel fluctuations, the sweats, and the chills are the bodies way of reacting to the sudden removal of the toxins we have been injesting in order to stop pain. The body has become accustomed to the way the chemicals rearrange our system’s natural functions. When we curtail the use of those toxins, the body assumes there is an imbalance and tries to cope by producing chemicals it thinks we need. The bowels increase motiltiy (hence the need to go to the toilet a lot), the muscles get a lower infusion of sodium and potassium which triggers muscle functions (cramps), and a host of other problems. New drugs have been introduced to (for lack of a better word) trick the body into thinking nothing has changed and therefore it slowly accepts the new medications as substitutes for the opiates we no longer injest. Suboxine and Subutex mimic the effects of the opiates and the receptors attach themselves to the synapses of the nerves and the body thinks it’s o.k. All that lessens the severity of the withdrawal symptoms.
      There are protocols for sessation that use different drugs for varying reasons and not all programs use the same protocols. My experience with detox/rehab used Subutex, Robaxin, Celexa, Nuronton, and an occational Trasadone. Even after 4 months c&s, I still have a lot of sleepless nights, leg cramps, nightsweats, and long walks to make my legs relax and just take my mind off recovery.
      I certainly know what you are going through and encourage you to stay in this forum and keep in touch with us. Many have tried to go it alone and failed. I think we can help each other. I know we can! If you ever need to contact any of us by phone, I ,for one would be happy and honored to assist you ant way I can. All you have to do is ask. Meanwhile stay after it and don’t give up. We’ll keep praying for you,

      IHS
      Bruce S.

      1. Pat says:

        Thank You so much Bruce, Larry, and Jackie! It means so much! Day 5 is not going great for me, terrible depression, anxiety, headache, and chills. This website is a lifesaver literally! I’m sure you all understand what a lonely road we are walking, you see, I have to keep this my own dirty secret as if it got out, it could cost me my job, my home, my livelihood, everything! It helps so much to come here a few times a day and just read all your posts an know what I’m going through is part of the process and we WILL come out the other side to a better, REAL life! I continue to pray for all of us at this moment (as I shiver). I hope for better days to come for all of us! Much Love!

        1. Bruce S. says:

          Pat,

          That’s the spirit!! Just by staying in contact with us helps keep your mind in the right groove. Any time you have any doubts about yourself you need to seek out compassion, understanding, knowledge, and most of all LOVE. We have all been there and we know these key componants to recovery are of paramount importance. Don’t give up on yourself ’cause we won’t. Contact any of us any time-day or night. I am almost always awake 3-4 times a night.
          Warmest regards,

          IHS
          Bruce S.

        2. Jackie G. says:

          Hi Pat,
          I know what you mean about keeping it to yourself. I’m doing the same. Just remember that you are NOT alone we are in this together!Like someone else said if you need to talk let me know and i’ll send you my number. This site has been a God sent for me as well. Just knowing that there are others out there that are feeling and going through what I’m going through help. You know that old saying that misery love company (however I wouldn’t wish this on someone I hated)!Have you tryed any of things that Larry has in his recipe . I will say if not for them I don’t think I would be dong as well as I am if not for some of them. Make sure you try the Gaia Melissa Supreme Herbal Tincture. It has REALLY HELPED me. Hope you start to feel better soon!

      2. Tara Archer says:

        Hi Bryce, I was impressed by your knowledge of the symptoms of withdrawals. I’m on my 4th days of stopping morphine due to a car accident in 05 that left me with multiple back, neck, shoulder surgeries, separated clavicle, migraines and of course these injuries have multiple behavior or they lead to depression so you take medication for that. Then you can’t sleep so medication for that and one thing leads to another, to counting pills to pharmacies look at you differently to where you have to call the pharmacy every 25 days to see off they have your medication. Of course you have to speak to the pharmacist and they will let you know if they have it or NEED TO ORDER IT. AWE! We will have it next week then you call another pharmacy to see if they have it then it looks as if you are shopping around for drugs and your going to rob a pharmacy. That being labeled a user, abuser, druggie, etc. That was humiliating for me , degrading, insulting, because I felt I had multiple problems to use this drug because of a 14 year old who skipped school, took her parents van without permission and was at the wrong place going to work as a nurse,she T boned my surbarban then drove away from the scene. If I was in a smaller car I wouldn’t be teller this story. I had to quick work, go on disability and try to live one day at a time. It hasn’t been easy but I hear of worse stories.
        So, now I’ve told my story sorry about that it led to that. Fighting fibromyalgia might go away with stopping the morphine but its genetic my sister and mother have it.

        Excersise does help with the endorphins that are kicking in, plus sweating is a wonderful feeling. My husband has been very understanding and feels sympathetic. My kids are in college so I’m a 50 year old that has empty nest syndrome but I’m surviving making new friends and here we moved out in the sticks, built a beautiful house and only see my husband every 2 weeks due to his job and the housing economy. Finding a new church is difficult but can be done.

        This web site has helped me a great deal. I wanted to start a support group but didn’t have the strength. In time maybe.

        Thanks for your help.
        Gracious
        Tara

  45. Jackie G. says:

    Hi my name is Jackie. It has been 23 hours since the last time I used. I don’t know if I’m going to make it, I know I want to. But I have tryed in the past and have always went back to it!

    1. JP says:

      Jackie, I’m about 67 hours since my last Vicodin. I understand what you are going through. Just hang in there. I’m not going to lye to you I just had the worst 3 days of my life. I feel a lot better today so just trust in that it will get better. I will pray for you.

      1. Jackie G. says:

        Thanks JP,
        I hope you are doing ikay.. I want say well because I know thats so far from the truth until it’s scary!!At 6pm tonight i will have made it 72 hours!!! I still can’t belieave that I made it here but here I am! My body still feels like a truck ran over me and I still can’t eat very much . I’m just happy I made it here. Also I have been having big time lower back pain. Has anyone else ever felt this?

        1. JP says:

          Jackie, that is awesome! It’s been 4 day’s now for me. I’m glad to hear that ur hanging in there it’s almost like we are doing it together. Just dig in and remember what ur going.through and why you are doing this it will be worth it in the end.

          1. Jackie G. says:

            Thanks JP,
            Your right tho it is as if we are doing this together. It’s nice to know I’, not alone in this! My family has no clue whats going on. I have never told any of them. As far as feeling better I think I would feel alot better is I could get some much needed sleep. I did order the list that Larry sent out and it did come in today. So I’m hoping that tonight I will get some sleep!! Thanks for being there!!!!!

            1. Jackie G. says:

              It’s now 7pm and 72 hour have past since the last time I used! I was able to keep down a bowel of soup!! I can’t say what it will feel like in a little while but I will say it feels so nice to have something inside me that didn’t want to come up right after I put it in! The back is still killing me !!!!! But I know that I can and WILL DO THIS!! Or I will die trying!!! Goodluck everyone!

              1. Larry C. says:

                Jackie, this is 72 hours you don’t have to do ever again, unless you want to. it’s going top start getting better from here on out.
                Larry

                1. Jackie G. says:

                  Thanks Larry, I don’t think I EVER want to go through this hell ever again!

                  1. Larry C. says:

                    yeah me either…

        2. Bruce S. says:

          Jackie,
          I too have the back pain even after 4 months post withdrawal.I feel it after my 1-2 mile walks with my daughter’s Coonhound. I had to take late night walks to get my legs to stop cramping at 2-3 in the morning. I don’t go to any meetings because they don’t want to hear about Jesus Christ and I don’t give a crap about pills, booze, or smogs as I quit them all. I have my wife of 46 years to hold on to. My stinking former son-in-law went through the same detox/rehab as I did and he lives with a “professed survivor” ( not my daughter).
          She’s a scum-bag bitch with 3 kids, from 3 different fathers, and just got busted for selling heroin )and his arms are all scratched up like when he was using. He hangs with dopers and when we meet, one of us is going to die. My comp payments stopped August 13th and I really don’t care what happens now because I am free at last!
          You will get over this because it is seldom fatal. I am 62 and I survived the trauma. So, you take good care of yourself and keep on keepin on. We’ll pray for you everyday.
          IHS,
          Bruce

          1. Jackie G. says:

            Thanks Bruce,
            I so very sorry to hear about your son-in-law! I know It has to be hard to watch a family member do something you have worked so hard to stop! I wish I could tell my family what is going on. I just don’t have the guts to. I know that they love me and would be there for me. That I know for sure and that not the reason I’m not telling them. The reason I haven’t told them yet is I hate to let anyone down and I know as soon as I tell my husband I will see the disappointment in his eyes! I can’t see telling my kids hay your mom’s addicted to Painkillers. I keep asking myself how did I get here? What made me start using in the first place. So I did a lot of soul searching . I think I see how I got here now. It started with the loss of my little girl. I really don’t think I ever really dealt with it. I blocked all that pain in the hopes that I could take care of my family and their pain of her death. I know now that I have to deal with that pain so that I never have to go through this pain again! I’m scared to death of what life will be like not on the pain meds. What thoughts will now come into my head now that I don’t have anything to wash it away with. I’m just SCARED!

            1. Jackie G. says:

              Ha JP, How are you doing? I just wanted to check in on you and make sure you are doing okay! Hope all is well!!

              1. JP says:

                Hey Jackie, I’m doing pretty good it’s been over 5 days now I’m still feeling a little nauseous and my legs and arms are still cramping up at night. I went back to work yesterday I can definitely tell the up and down emotions are starting to kick in. It doesn’t help that I quit smoking and caffeine at the same time. Every time I look at my girls I know it’s all worth it. Thanks for checking in on me. How are you holding up?

                1. Jackie G. says:

                  Jp, I’m doing okay. Yesterday was my best day so far. I know what you mean about the ups and downs. I’m having them as well. Happy one min and upset the other. But I know we can do this. I just keep telling myself one more day, one more day. As that day passes I make sure I thank God for helping me get here! I went out yesterday for the first time with my husband, it’s strange all the things you see when your clean that you missed before. I hear my little girl laughing more now. I’m sure she did before. I just love the way it sounds now!!

            2. Bruce S. says:

              Hi’ya Jackie,
              It’s 3:15 am Saturday morning and I just woke up out of a dead sleep ’cause I felt someone calling for guideance or help or sumpin. I don’t know. Was it you? Crazy. Anyway, I thought I’d check and see if anyone was in need. How you doin? O.K. I hope. I’m doin great. A little creeped out, but great! Call if you need anything; I’m only a computer away.

              Sleep well my friend,
              IHS
              Bruce

              1. Jackie G. says:

                You know that is kinda weird !! Last night was not a good night for me!! I had someone call and ask if I needed any pain meds. I told them NO, and that I know longer used pain meds and he was are you sure. Yes I’m sure I wouldn’t have told you no other wise!!Needless to say it was a long night second guess myself! Thanks for checking in on me.. I’m still clean and a day away from a week clean at that!! WHOOHOO!!! Many many thanks to you ALL!!

                1. Jackie G. says:

                  JP, Bruce and Pat, How are you all doing ? Just wanted to check in with you all and see how everyone was.. Hope everyone is doing well. Stay strong my friends!!

  46. Christie says:

    I’m 29 y/o and in recovery from alcohol. I know how it felt to loose it all and have nothing. I turned my life around but suddenly I had a back injury . Tried to get all types of help until surgery was a must. I didn’t take any pain meds at first until I had a post op problem and there was really no choice at the time. I have been on these meds for a total of 4 months. I tried to taper down but that was hell so I just stopped. I feel ok, but not sleeping is killing me! I just never thought in my life that this could be this bad! I just hope I can withstand the next hour because I personally know the life addiction leads.

  47. Chelle says:

    I have been clean now for 17 days. I’m taking suboxone, neurotin and seriquil. I still feel sick!I can’t eat, i sweat like crazy but am cold, my body feels stiff and I still get muscle spasims. I go from feeling anxious to depressed to numb. I want to stay clean but I am miserable. my bowels and kidneys have takena hard hit due to my use, so I still have trouble going to the bathroom. As the days drag on, I find myself wondering how I am I going to get through this and will it ever get any better?!!! I’m so tired and you would think after three weeks I would be on top of the world. Does anybody have anything to say that may be encouraging, or can you atleast relate? My family and boyfriend don’t understand, but they love me and want to help. For that I am greatful!:-)

    1. Larry C. says:

      have you subscribed to the newsletter? if not you should and have your family and BF read them too.
      How long have you been on Suboxone? How much are you taking?
      If only a short time then you may want to start weening yourself off, but that’s up to you. Suboxone is an opiate as well, but a partial opiate but it is also harder to kick than a regular opiate. Be careful how long you are on it. it’s meant to be on only a short time.
      read some of the comments on this post:
      http://www.howtogetoffpainkillers.com/how-long-does-opiate-withdrawal-last/
      there are 1008 comments, many might help and give you encouragement.

      Larry
      BTW get some of the stuff on the recipe I created in this post, it will help you:
      Thomas Recipe Alternative

  48. Bruce S. says:

    BTW that’s “Thanks for playing” duhh!

  49. Bruce S. says:

    I have been taking Oxycontin 40’s and Oxycodone 15’s for 2 years and 8 mos. I have been suffering from the ramafications of 9 surgeries in the past 18 years. I have Osteoarthritis in 6 different areas of my body and pain from 3 crushed discs in my neck. The neck had to have 5 cevical vertabrea fused because of a Myolopathy (bulges into the spinal cord and causes severe pain). The pain management doctor had me hooked after just 2 months,and I kept going back every month for new scriptsbecause I needed them at that point regardless of the pain level. Those meds just ruined my homelife and interfered with my getting a job as well as losing the job I had for 2-1/2 years. I went to Retreat at Lancaster County, Pa. I detoxed there and rehabed for 28 days. I went home and have been home for 4 days. I am having PAWS and it is worse than having the real thing. I am suposed to take Robaxin and Celexa to keep me steady but I inadvertantly ran out Sunday morning and am now in a serious PAWS as I am writing this letter. It is now 3:30am and I ache someting fierce. I can’t sleep as the leg cramps are so severe I am in tears. If I take a half of a hydro 10mg am I risking relapse or will I be able to get the needed relief once I get to my pharmacy for the Robaxin and Celexa? I don’t want to go back to the way it was.
    Thanks for paying
    Bruce

    1. Larry C. says:

      Bruce, One is a muscle relaxer and the other an antidepressant. I’m not a doctor so I would talk to your doctor if I were you about those drugs. I’m sure you know that taking an opiate at this point would relieve your symptoms but prolong your recovery and possibly relapse. Have you tried Melissa Supreme? or Potassium or magnesium?
      Larry

      1. jason w says:

        larry im not a doc but i went cold turkey from all meds of mine and others and one was celexa wich was a mood stabalizer perscribed to it is also what i started taking befor i relaped i now have gone cold again and now feel when u just say no keep busy doing other things i have severe problems with my heart back mood and as well as hands and now i feel much better than i did when i was on the meds and thins are more clear and can do anything i put my mide to and when on the meds i couldnt so i guesss my advice id walk away from the pharmacy say no stay away

  50. Nancy says:

    Hello my name is nancy I’ve been taking on and off pain killers hydro 10s Vicodin with prometh and codein at least 2oz a day with 4 pills and I started with just 1 a day then 2 then 4 then the last 2 days i was taking at least 6-7 I guess it made me feel more active and flexible now it’s been 3days since tues night today is friday and I woke up feeling like I was going to die I cried to my husband I wanna go to the er bc I’m scared but he told me to relax its just the pill calling my name now I just had oral surgery yesterday and I’m in pain but I’m forming myself not to take it bc if I do then I will never get thru this I’m taking Tylenol for the pain instead of hydro I tried doing jumping jacks it helped a little I’m washing moving around on and off and I took a long bath laid in the tub for about 20 min it helped but my Hair still wet maybe that’s why I haven’t had the chills idk but the chills stopped but I hope they don’t come back I’m just hoping this is over quick bc I’m ready to be a happy mom and wife

    1. Larry C. says:

      Hi Nancy, get some Melissa to help ease your nerves. Did you sign up for the email list? it will give you the recipe we use around here to help withdrawal. You will have a few more days of this emotional and mental and physical discomfort but you will live. and you probably don’t need the er. except if you’re going to try to get more painkillers.

      You’re through the hard part. just keep going.
      Good luck and keep up posted.
      Larry

  51. Karina says:

    Hi everyone.I am fifty and have been on opiates for 37years now! the hard and heavy ,also i am ill ,I have MS,plus ,chronic damage to a back injury along with rehumetoid artherites and chronic pain always.So am prescribed 180mgs twice a day of morphine sulphate,oxycodone and klonipin for an easy 25 years now.I am afraid because no one will help me,being that i am disabled and only get a small check each month.the treatment centers wont take me because of my illnesses plus i tried suboxone to find it almost killed me.allgric reaction.please if some doctors out there would be willing to help save me ,knowing i have not much but medicaid.Please help if you can.
    Thanks Karina

  52. christina says:

    Hi, my name is christina and I am an addict. I have been taking lortab for close to three years now increasing my dosage up to 12 tens a day. I feel lifeless and I’m so ready to feel normal again. I used to be so happy and carefree and now I am lazy and enjoy nothing out of life. I get so stressed out when my pills start running low and I will not participate in any kind of activity unless I know I have atleast 10 pills to get my day started. I also have children which makes me feel horrible because I know they are not getting the mom I could be. I started using pain pills after I had my daughter. She had colic so I wasn’t getting any sleep and the pain pills seemed to give me energy until I got used to them anyway and then it was too late. I am taking a stand against this addiction today. I will do this for my children and I am so lucky to have found this site to let me know I am not the only one who has went through this. I know I can do this and I know it is going to suck. The longest I have went without an opiate is 2 days which was complete and immortal hell. Well here goes nothing. Can’t wait until I’m normal again. The gratification of doing this for my kids will help me get through this. They deserve better than what I’m doing. I will post again tomorrow which will be day 1.

    1. christina says:

      The anxiety is already starting to kick in knowing that I will not have a pain pill tomorrow. Its not like I can just lay around and be sick because I have kids to take care of. I will not let temptation get the best of me though and I am ready to kick this nasty addiction.

      1. christina says:

        Ok I am 24 hours in, my knees are aching and my stomach is cramping horribly. I feel like a zombie walking around trying to get things done. I also feel really nauseas right now and do not want to do anything but lay on the couch. Also the hot and cold flashes are really starting to get to me. I hope that goes away soon.

        1. christina says:

          Well here I am again.. I ended up relapsing and felt like I couldn’t take it anymore. I have tried so hard to devote myself to this but the symptoms and side effects of coming off them seem to get the best of me. I know I am stronger than this though so I am going to go for it again. This time maybe I can do it.. I have no support because no one knows I’m an addict. Therefore I have to go at this .alone and no one understands why I’m so sick when i try to get off them. I have already used the flu excuse and somtimes I just want to break down and tell my mom but then again I would rather do this without her knowing. I guess if worse comes to worse I will tell her with no other choice. Maybe I do need help. Maybe I just. can’t do it by myself

          1. Larry C. says:

            Have you tried going to NA meetings? they will all understand you as you are NOT the only person who has or is going through this. Have you also tried the herbal recipe we have on here? It will help with some of the symptoms. But most of all YOU NEED SUPPORT. If you will not tell your friends or family, who most likely won’t understand what you are going through, then go somewhere where they will. Narcotics Anonymous.

            Good luck again!!!
            Larry

            1. christina says:

              Larry I have not tried NA meetings because there aren’t any in my area and its hard to find a babysitter to go. When I was 18 I was addicted to cocaine and I have been clean from that for over 7 years with no help or support for that. So I know I can do this its not only the side effects that get me its the craving for it. Its overwhelming. I keep reading these post and it does make me feel like there is hope. I’m just going to try and keep my head up and my mind as busy as possible. I think I’m going to start a journal that way everyday I can see how far I’ve cam and realize that I don’t want to have to go through it again. About the herbals I really don’t have the money right now but as soon as I get it I will definatwly try them. Thank you for your support. I will update tomorrow and let you know how everything is going. Thanks again larry.

              1. Felix H says:

                Christina,

                How are you making out??? I have a 46 year old sister, a 44 year old brother with his wife and all three seem to have falling to this ever growing problem of pill addiction. I plan on talking to my brother first about this and hopefully help all three get back to their normal lives. I have been doing research and have also found Naranon which is like NA but it’s a free program which I’m hoping will help. I hope and pray that you are doing well and have been able to recover….. Best of luck….

                1. Larry C. says:

                  Naranon is for loved ones of the addicts, such as you. It’s typically not for the addict themselves like NA is.

  53. Steve k says:

    Hello to whoever reads this, I’m 19 about to finish my first year in college. For the past year maybe more I have been addicted to oxycodone 30mgs. Started out one a week, then one a day then for the last 2 months I was snorting 2 a day. Today is my second day clean. I haven’t slept at all maybe 4 hours in those 2 days. About 2 hours ago I decided to go online and read some drug information, turns out I just faced the fact that I am addicted to pills. I never thought of it as an addiction until I found out that opiate withdrawals are the same as what I’m goin through right now. The more I think about it I just want to go buy some. But thinking about it is what’s killing me. I never thought I would say this or even write this but I just need someone to talk to I guess, like the kind of comfort a mother can give to any child at any age. Except i cannot approach my parents i am in fear of them withdrawing my from the. College lacrosse team, or even the college itself. Can anyone help me? Like what am I going to go through in the next few days, week(s). Someone tell me I’m gonna be fine and. It be a lowlife the rest of my life.

    1. Larry C. says:

      You’re going to be fine, as long as you stop and don’t go back. Withdrawal lasts about 5-10 days, it will hurt but you will live. try going to some NA meetings, out of your area if that helps.
      Get some Melissa Supreme, it will help you all around with the sleep and such. There’s also a sleep aid on the side bar over there —>>> which will also help you sleep.

      Good luck, keep reading the stuff here and check in with us often for more support.
      Larry

      Have a better day.

      1. trish says:

        You will be fine, i promise. I’m 28 and have been an addict for almost 6 years. I have gotten off of them before , always went back… that was until the last time. My boyfriend got so sick and tired of all my lies. He wasn’t sure what to do, and I don’t know if it was the right thing to do, but he told my family and I was in shock! How could he tell my mom? I was angry with him, because I was so embarrassed. Here I am, a college graduate, a teacher, a drug addict. It was my little secret and I didn’t want anyone to know. But after the initial embarrassment, it all worked out. I needed my familys. Support and their love and I got it. I never thought they were going to be supportive, kind of like you but they will do anything to help, you have to give them the chance and yourself the opportunity to help yourself.
        You would be surprised how your family come together and help. I’m sure they love you and will want to help. If it wasn’t for my boyfriend telling, I don’t think I ever would’ve. Thank God he did, he helped me save myself along with my family. Good luck!

  54. allie says:

    my husband has been taking lortabs on and off for three years he has not had a pill for two days he says he cannot take it any longer now he is very sick up and down vomit bathroom repeat what can i do he says he will never do this again he is done i am a mother of two and i am tired of really pretending he lies to my face the last time he “quit” i believed him I want my husband back will he be able to get back to who I knew before the pills entered ?

    1. Larry C. says:

      If he stops the pills he will get back to normal, after a while.
      Larry

  55. CZ says:

    Larry,
    I feel like a moron… I can’t navigate the posts. I lost all my people all of the sudden! Where are Kate and Steve and Lee? I hope you are all doing well. You are still in my thoughts.

    Tashe Delek

    1. Larry C. says:

      try looking in the post called how long does opiate withdrawal last

  56. Sworth says:

    Does anyone know how to stop the creepy crawlies in my arms….i can’t stand it anymore and makes me want to use…

    1. Bryce says:

      I found that exercise helps a lot with this. The worst times are when you are doing nothing but considering using so try and keep your mind busy and you will bet it
      All the beat mate

  57. THECHILLS says:

    is anyone their lol

  58. THECHILLS says:

    HEY my name is Brandon been on opiates for about a year.It started off with hydros 10s a couple a day then my tolerance went up so it got up to 8-10 a day.I then found someone who had oxycontin 40s so i started using them on average 3 a day for the past 3 months.Since day 1 reading these comments has kept me goin and now tommorow will be 10 days clean.I was wondering when will me bein cold and sweaty hands will go away?

    1. yaya says:

      one day at a time thank god everyday that you have a day to wake up to you sure can do it your here for a reason.your one of gods chrildren .please take 2 3 4 or 5 min a day and just close your eyes and say i am worth the love from god every day i take a breath .and pray for others not just for self but for others that need your pray

  59. Lee says:

    Hi everyone,
    The last time I took a pill was early Tuesday morning. About 80 hours in. This is the most horrific experience of my life. I have been abusing painkillers on and off for about 6 years. About two years ago it went from a nice little energy boost to need in order to function. Once I realized I needed to put end to this, I always told myself “once these are gone I’m done.” Or just get through the next couple of days. I have 4 kids and a business and there was just never any time to get ” the flu”. I had a reality check last week that I just couldn’t ignore anymore so I went cold turkey. I think the worst is behind me. Now I have the annoying cold sweats and i’m easily irritated. I have to say the only way I have made it through the last few days is by reading the stories of everyone from this forum and others like this one. Whenever I thought about do.ding a perc I go online to see what others have to say. Thank you for sharing.

    1. Larry C. says:

      You’re right where you’re supposed to be. 🙂

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