Restless Legs During Opiate Withdrawal

Hi Folks and welcome to my blog about opiate addiction. When one quits opiates by going cold turkey or after a tapering process, they will most likely experience a variety of withdrawal symptoms. Some are worse than others while others are barely noticeable and simply a minor nuisance. Some of these withdrawals last for a few days while others can be felt for weeks. All and all, withdrawals from opiates can really make quitting opiates and staying clean an extremely difficult (yet possible) task.

If you were to ask me what withdrawal symptom I dread the most, I can say right off the bat and without a doubt that restless legs takes home the prize. Sure, the chills, sweats, aches/pains, stomach problems, and lack of sleep make for one hell of a week(s) but in my opinion, none of these symptoms come remotely close to how bad restless legs can feel. The awful feeling of having to constantly move one's legs while changing positions every 30 seconds is about as close to Hell as I can imagine. To make matters worse, I actually have the condition Restless Leg Syndrome, which makes the common opiate withdrawal symptom of restless legs feel like a million times worse when detoxing. Hell, even if I'm not withdrawing from opiates and am experiencing restless legs I feel so frustrated, defeated, and weak.

Therefore, I would like to use this post as an opportunity to provide you guys with some quick information about restless legs during opiate withdrawal along with some ways to help provide relief for such a nasty withdrawal symptom. While I will talk a little bit about the condition Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), most of this post will concern restless legs as a symptom of opiate withdrawal rather than the actual medical condition of RLS.

 

What are Restless Legs and Why Do We Get Them

 

It is important to first identify and separate the medical condition known as Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and the symptom of restless legs that one would experience during opiate withdrawal. While both items carry with them near identical symptoms, RLS is usually a chronic condition meaning it is something one will have for quite some time and possibly for their entire life. On the other hand, restless legs as a symptom of opiate withdrawal is a result of the body undergoing a detoxification process and these symptoms will eventually disappear over time. To provide you guys with an example, pretend an individual takes part in an intensive exercise routine that results in their blood pressure increasing momentary. While this person did experience a bout of high blood pressure, it does not mean that the person suffers from the condition of having high blood pressure. Rather, the increase in blood pressure for this individual was a direct result of the exercise rather than an actual medical condition, illness, or disease. Thus, for this particular post, we will focus on restless legs occurring as a result and symptom of opiate withdrawal.

 

Restless legs can be described as having any of the following symptoms:

 

• Constant or frequent urges to move legs
• Itchy feeling in legs commonly described as "an itch you can't feel or itch"
• Crawling feeling within the legs
• Random jerks or reactions from legs
• Hot or cold flashes in the legs
• Pain or burning sensation in the legs

 

Common Symptoms of Restless Legs

Restless legs can truly be a nuisance and often limit or disturb one's sleep making detoxing off opiates that much harder. The condition also seems to worsen for many at night and/or when they are sitting or laying down. For many, this leads to numerous nights of tossing and turning in bed late at night in hopes of being able to find a comfortable position and achieve some level of sleep. Although less common, some people report having these feelings in their arms, neck, and shoulders as well.

The understanding of Restless Leg Syndrome and restless legs in general is pretty limited as of right now. Fortunately, the topic and area has been getting more attention over the last couple of years as the number of cases of patients experiencing restless legs or related symptoms continues to grow. In years past, many doctors and specialists thought restless legs were a symptom of a condition rather than an actual condition in itself. Today, the condition is actually labeled as an entirely separate beast and not simply as a symptom of something else. Some studies suggest that as many as 1 in every 10 people will develop Restless Leg Syndrome at some point in their lives, with those over 55 appearing most vulnerable.

Now, the restless legs episodes that most of us who are reading this blog experience are most likely a symptom resulting from opiate withdrawal rather than the actual condition of RLS. However, I mention the increase of attention in the condition RLS as it has led to numerous medications and treatments becoming available that can also be used to treat restless legs resulting from opiate withdrawal. Most of these medications are still in the early stages and as a result, there has been mixed reactions as far as how effective these medications are in treating restless legs.

According to the website Help Guide, scientists and doctors believe the cause of restless legs is as follows (in blue font):

"Experts believe that restless legs syndrome is caused by an imbalance of dopamine, a chemical that transmits signals between nerve cells in the brain. Restless legs syndrome is usually genetic, about 60% of people with restless legs have a family member with the condition. Although anyone can have restless legs syndrome, it is more common in older adults and women. In fact, about 40% of mothers experience temporary restless legs syndrome during pregnancy. Health conditions such as diabetes, iron deficiency, rheumatoid arthritis, and kidney failure can also trigger restless legs syndrome."

 

Web MD provides the following information (again, in blue font) in describing some of the potential causes or factors contributing to the presence of restless legs:

 

Chronic diseases. Certain chronic diseases and medical conditions, including iron deficiency, Parkinson’s disease, kidney failure, diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy often include symptoms of RLS. Treating these conditions often gives some relief from restless legs symptoms.

 

Medications. Some types of medications, including antinausea drugs, antipsychotic drugs, some antidepressants, and cold and allergy medications containing antihistamines may worsen symptoms.

 

Pregnancy. Some women experience RLS during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester. Symptoms usually go away within a month after delivery.

Other factors, including alcohol use and sleep deprivation, may trigger symptoms or make them worse. Improving sleep or eliminating alcohol use in these cases may relieve symptoms.

 

Now, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that the reason most of us who are reading this blog experience restless legs is due to withdrawing from opiates. However, some people (myself included) may actually have Restless Leg Syndrome so it is important that one is able to differentiate between the two. You don't want to be experiencing restless legs 3 months after detoxing off opiates thinking that you are getting the restless legs due to no longer using opiates. You may in fact actually have the condition Restless Leg Syndrome so make sure you evaluate your situation and talk openly and honestly with your doctor. A simple physical and possible lab blood test can sometimes determine whether or not you have RLS as well as possibly identifying the cause of it. Having any conditions, problems, or issues taken care of and in control will only make your road to recovery easier in the long run. You don't want to end up one night feeling frustrated and uncomfortable because you can't sleep or that your legs are bothering so much that you end up turning to your drug of choice for relief. I have been there before... more than once unfortunately.

As I previously mentioned, restless legs can be a direct result of something else other than opiate withdrawal. This situation is referred to as Secondary Restless Leg Syndrome and can occur in situations such as pregnancy, disease, nutrient deficiency, or as a side effect from certain medications. Diphenhydramine, the main ingredient in Benadryl, is a perfect example of Secondary RLS. A common side effect of this over the counter medication, especially when taken in higher dosages, is restless legs. I use this medication as an example because I know it is a popular choice as a medication among addicts (as well as non-addicts) to use to provide relief for insomnia. The sedative effect of Diphenhydramine is appealing to many addicts who are struggling to sleep during detoxification. However, the medication can have the exact opposite effect on some leaving them with a sense of restlessness and feeling worse. This was something that I dealt with numerous times until I finally figured out the medication was doing more harm than good. Please not that I am not knocking Benadryl as it can be really effective for some. At the end of the day, know your body and what works and doesn't work. The chart below provides some common factors that can lead to Secondary RLS.

 

Possible Causes for Restless Legs

 

Remedies and Treatments to Help Relieve Restless Legs

 

As I have previously stated, the methods and treatments used for treating restless legs right now are somewhat limited. There are several tips, treatments, and medications out there that claim to help in providing relief for restless legs. Some work well for some people while providing little to no relief for someone else. In other words, these medications and treatments have different degrees of success. At the end of the day, like so many other things in life, everyone is different and their bodies will react differently to different treatments and medications. However, I would like to include some of these medications and treatments in hope that maybe you will find one that works well for you. As always, be sure to talk these items over with your doctor and to know what you are putting into your body. A little research can go a long way.

 

This information was provided by the website Help Guide. You can access this information and learn more about restless legs by clicking HERE.

 

Help Guide's Lifestyle treatments for restless legs syndrome (RLS):

There is a lot you can do to take care of restless legs syndrome yourself. Mild RLS can often be treated with lifestyle changes alone. The following daytime habits can help reduce the frequency and severity of your restless legs symptoms.

• Sleep better by sticking to a regular sleep schedule. Fatigue can worsen the symptoms of restless legs syndrome, so doing what it takes to get enough sleep is crucial. Try hitting the sack at the same time every night, (or try warm baths or reading in bed) allowing plenty of time for winding down.
• Exercise in moderation. Daily activity, including moderate aerobic exercise and lower-body resistance training, can significantly reduce the symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Swim, go for a walk, take the stairs, or spend a few minutes doing jumping jacks. Keep in mind that excessive exercise—like training for a marathon—can actually make restless legs syndrome worse.
• Cut back on caffeine. Caffeine often makes the symptoms of restless legs syndrome worse. Try reducing or eliminating your consumption of coffee, tea, soft drinks, and caffeinated foods such as chocolate.
• Avoid alcohol and cigarettes. Many people with restless legs syndrome find that their symptoms improve when they stop drinking and smoking.
• Consider dietary supplements. Check with a doctor or nutritionist to find out if you’re low on iron, vitamin B, folic acid, or magnesium. Deficiencies can bring on RLS.
• Lose weight. If you’re overweight, dropping the extra pounds can often relieve or lessen the symptoms of restless legs syndrome.
• Try practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation. Stress can make RLS symptoms worse. Daily stretching and meditation can promote relaxation and alleviate (RLS).

Help Guide's Self-help treatment for restless legs syndrome (RLS):

Living well with restless legs syndrome means knowing how to manage situations where you must be still. The following tips and tricks will help you control RLS so it doesn’t control you.

• Pressure can help relieve the discomfort of restless legs syndrome. Try wearing compression socks or stockings or wrap your legs in bandages (but not so tight you’ll cut off circulation).
• Try sleeping with a pillow between your legs. It may prevent nerves in your legs from compressing.
• Try to find or create a work setting where you can be active. If you work at an office, look into a desk that lets you stand and type.
• Tell friends, family, and coworkers why you have to move more than others. They’ll likely be accommodating and want to help you create a healthy environment.
• Choose an aisle seat at movies and on planes so that you can get up and move.
• Give yourself stretch breaks at work and during long car rides.

Help Guide's Stretches for restless legs syndrome (RLS):

Simple stretching can help stop the symptoms of restless legs syndrome in their tracks. Here’s a handful to help you get started.

• Calf stretch – Stretch out your arms so that your palms are flat against a wall and your elbows are nearly straight. Slightly bend your right knee and step your left leg back a foot or two, positioning its heel and foot flat on the floor. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Now bend your left knee while still keeping its heel and foot flat on the floor. For a deeper stretch, move your foot back a bit farther. Switch legs and repeat.
• Front thigh stretch – Standing parallel to a wall for balance, grab and pull one of your ankles toward your buttock while keeping the other leg straight. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat.
• Hip stretch – Place the back of a chair against the wall for support and stand facing the chair. Raise your left foot up and rest it flat on the chair, with your knee bent. (Or try placing your foot on a stair while holding the railing for balance.) Keeping your spine as neutral as possible, press your pelvis forward gently until you feel a stretch at the top of your right thigh. Your pelvis will move forward only a little. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat.

Help Guide's Treatment for restless legs syndrome (RLS):

If self-help doesn’t relieve your restless legs syndrome symptoms, you may benefit from visiting a doctor or a sleep specialist.

Diagnosing restless legs syndrome (RLS)

While there are no laboratory tests that can determine if you have restless legs syndrome, your doctor can diagnose it by reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical exam. To diagnose RLS, your doctor will request:

• A complete medical history
• A survey to see if anyone else in your family has similar symptoms
• A diagnostic interview, to rule out other medical conditions
• A blood test for low iron levels

Your doctor may also review the medications you’re taking as some prescription and over–the–counter drugs can make the symptoms of restless legs syndrome worse.

Help Guide's Medications that can make restless legs syndrome (RLS) worse:

• Over-the-counter sleeping pills
• Antihistamines (found in many cold and allergy pills such as Benadryl, NyQuil, and Dimetapp)
• Anti-nausea medications (such as Antivert, Compazine, and Dramamine)
• Calcium channel blockers (used for high blood pressure and heart problems)
• Antidepressants (such as Prozac, Effexor, and Lexapro)
• Antipsychotics (used for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia)

If a medical condition, such as iron deficiency, diabetes, or nerve damage is triggering your restless legs syndrome, treating the underlying problem may relieve your RLS symptoms. But if there is no underlying condition and lifestyle changes don’t bring enough relief, you may need medication to reduce the restlessness in your legs.

Help Guide's Medication as treatment for restless legs syndrome (RLS):

No single medication works for everyone with restless legs syndrome. In fact, a drug that relieves one person’s restless legs may actually make your symptoms worse. In addition, many people with restless legs syndrome find that medications that work initially become less effective over time.
It’s also important to be aware of potential side effects, such as nausea, headache, and daytime sleepiness. If you struggle with compulsive shopping, gambling, or binge eating there is also a risk that medication for RLS could make these problems worse.

Before using medication for the treatment of restless legs syndrome (RLS)

Have you…

• given self-help a fair shot with non-medication treatments?
• considered how medication side effects may impact your life?
• weighed the pros and cons of medication vs. lifestyle changes?
• talked to your doctor about existing health conditions and drugs you’re taking?

Parkinson’s medication for restless legs syndrome (RLS):

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three Parkinson's medications for the treatment of restless legs syndrome, with the latest addition, the dermal patch Neupro, approved in April, 2012. The three are:

•  Pramipexole (Mirapex)
•  Ropinirole (Requip)
•  Rotigotine Transdermal System (Neupro)

Medications Used to Treat Restless Legs

Other Parkinson’s drugs that are sometimes used to treat RLS include Sinemet (carbidopa/levodopa), cabergoline and pergolide. Side effects of Parkinson's medications for restless legs syndrome include nausea, lightheadedness, fatigue, and an increased risk of heart disease.

Help Guide's Other common medications for restless legs syndrome (RLS):

• Prescription painkillers (such as codeine, oxycodone, Vicodin, and Percocet) can provide relief in severe, unrelenting cases of restless legs syndrome. However, prescription painkillers can be addictive. Side effects include nausea, dizziness, and constipation.
• Sleep medications and muscle relaxants (such as Ambien, Sonata, and Klonopin) can help you sleep better if the symptoms of restless legs syndrome keep you up at night. However, these medications do not eliminate the uncomfortable leg sensations and can cause daytime drowsiness.
• Anti-seizure medications (such as Neurontin, Tegretol, and Epitol) can be effective for painful daytime symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Side effects include dizziness and drowsiness.

Conclusion

 

As you can see, there are several ways one can go about in treating restless legs. In my opinion, the most important step one should first take is to determine why they are getting restless legs. Ask yourself if you were experiencing restless legs before, during, and after your use of opiates or rather did they appear right after you began detoxing and withdrawing off opiates. One must determine whether it is the detoxing off of opiates that is causing the restless legs or is it perhaps an underlying condition or symptom of one?

 

It may also be a good idea to get a lab blood test done as deficiencies in certain vitamins or minerals such as Iron can also cause restless legs. The lab blood tests are pretty easy to get done and can tell you and your doctor a lot about what is going on inside your body.

 

In my experience, I have used hot baths, stretching, moderate exercise, and the medication Requip (Ropinirole) to treat bouts of restless legs. Overall, these have provided me with moderate relief but are defiantly not miracle drugs or techniques. I have yet to withdraw and experience withdrawal since being on Suboxone so I can't speak much about how effective the Requip medication is in treating restless legs from opiate withdrawal. As I stated earlier, I actually have Restless Leg Syndrome and can honestly say the Requip has been effective in treating the restless legs but as most of you, opiate withdrawal is an entirely different beast so its effectiveness for this kind of situation remains to be seen.

 

My best advice is to talk with your doctor about what your options are for treating this dreadful withdrawal symptom. Your doctor might be able to prescribe you with something or possibly recommend some things, such as a change in diet, that can help your particular situation and needs.

 

As always Guys, thanks for taking the time to read and participate in my blog. Feel free to leave any comments in the comment section about your experiences with restless legs and what helps/doesn't help in treating this symptom of opiate withdrawal. I look forward to hearing from you guys in the comment section and remember to keep seeing the light!

 

Take Care,

 

Seeingthelight

My (Ongoing) Taper with Suboxone

Hello Everyone,

Welcome back to my blog about opiate addiction. As many of you already know from reading my previous blog entries, I am currently taking part in a Suboxone program due to my addiction to Oxycodone. I have been on Suboxone for just under a year now and know my time on this medication is coming to an end soon. This is something that both excites me and scares. Something I look forward to yet dread. Something I know I must do but would like to put off for "just a little longer." In the end, it is something I must come to terms with, face, and overcome if I ever want to live a life truly free of opiates. Therefore, I would like to use this particular post to talk about my taper on Suboxone, where I am at now with my recovery, and where I want to be in the end of it all.

Quick History

To give you guys a quick history of my situation in regards to Suboxone, I'll start with what got me there in the first place. I was addicted to the Oxycodone 30 mg pills for about 2 years and during the last few months I was abusing these pills before I got help, I was taking between 150-300 mg a day depending on what I could afford and get my hands on. I had tried to quit numerous times cold turkey but the farthest I could ever make it was 2 weeks. Most of the time when I tried going cold turkey, it would only last a matter of days before I would eventually cave in and use again. The lack of sleep, constant restlessness, brutal cold chills, and ongoing anxiety and depression really made it difficult for me to quit. This is when I came across Suboxone.

I had a few people and friends I knew who were or had been on Suboxone due to an addiction to Oxycodone so I figured this was my best shot. I figured, I could take a pill to avoid any withdrawal from the Oxycodone that wouldn't get me high, get my life back together, and then make the jump off of Suboxone. I also figured because I wouldn't (not couldn't) abuse the Suboxone, it would be easier to come off something that I didn't, well, like to get high off of.

I did a whole post on my experience with getting on Suboxone, if you guys would like to check it out by clicking Here.

Basically, I was started on 4 mg of Suboxone once a day. These were the 8/2 mg strips/films meaning that there was 8 mg of Buprenorphine and 2 mg of Naloxone in each strip/film. I would start out by taking half of a strip once a day. After about 5 months, my dose would be lowered to 2 mg once a day where I would take 1 mg in the morning and 1 mg at night. A little over 2 months later, my dose was again lowered to 1 mg once a day with .5 mg in the morning and .5 mg at night. This is the dose I am currently on as I write this post.

The 8 mg films/strips I was first prescribed. I took a half of a film/strip (4 mg) once a day when I first started Suboxone.

 

The films/strips I am currently taking now. I currently take half of film/strip each day (1 mg)

How Bad Was It?

 

The first few days on Suboxone weren't a walk in the park by any means but it was also not Hell on Earth either. I had little energy, was somewhat depressed, had random chills, and felt some minor aches/pains but these symptoms were all bearable. After about a week on the Suboxone, I felt close to 100 % and was able to get on with my life. I still had cravings to use but these went away for the most part after about a month on the Suboxone.

 

My Suboxone doctor told me I was lucky to be starting out at a relatively low dose and that some of her patients were being put on anywhere from 16-24 mg during induction. While my doctor isn't the greatest doctor in the world, I can honestly say she does look out for her patients if they are really looking to get clean and is not someone who is simply in it for the money. She told me how she tries to put her patients on the lowest dose possible when they first come in to help make the taper easier for both parties. However, she also mentioned how it is not uncommon for patients to come back after a few days saying they need more Subxone and that she will usually increase their dose if she can tell they really want to get clean and are being honest. She noted how if increasing their dose early on will help them get with the program and prevent them from using, it's a risk she is willing to take.

 

Anyways, back to my particular situation. After being on 4 mg of Suboxone for about 5 months, I made the jump to 2 mg once a day. I was a little nervous when this first happened. However, I can honestly say I felt absolutely no negative side effects or symptoms from my reduction in dosage. I was pretty shocked by this, especially for someone who was using so much Oxycodone to begin with. I think the key to this is to be honest with yourself when your figuring out how much Suboxone you really need. I think a lot of it is mental too. Try to give yourself enough time on your dose to see if you really need to take more and that it is not your mind playing tricks on you making you think that because you take less, you will withdraw. However, everyone is different and I realize every one's situation won't be the same as mine. In the end, only you will truly know your body and what works and doesn't works for you.

 

Another thing I want to bring is up is cravings during my time on 2 mg. I must say that although I did relapse, the cravings were not really present or intense during my time on this dose. I didn't relapse while I was on the 4 mg but I honestly don't think the reduction in my dose had anything to do with my relapse. When I did relapse, it was from me being a knucklehead and putting myself among a crowd of the wrong people with the wrong stuff. I could had simply said no and went my way but I didn't. I managed to get back on the sober train pretty quick and painlessly in the end, although if I could go back and do it all over again, I would have never used and put myself in that situation.

 

When I made the jump from 2 mg to 1 mg, this is where things got interesting. For the most part I am pretty comfortable during the day after I take my morning dose of .5 mg. I would say I'm probably at around 80-85 percent during the day and only get occasional chills or body aches sometimes. However, come nighttime, I can begin to feel myself needing that 2nd dose of .5 mg. I don't feel horrible, but I'll start getting the chills, a runny nose, a feeling of restlessness, and minor anxiety. Once I take my 2nd and final dose of the day of .5 mg I feel fine and am able to go to bed. Sometimes I might wake up early in the morning due to restless legs or the chills, probably indicting I am ready for my next dose. It can suck but all in all, just a minor inconvenience at most.

 

Thus far, I would defiantly say the biggest challenge of my taper has been the drop from 2 mg to 1 mg. While most of the side effects and symptoms are bearable, they can still be a bit of a pain and nuisance. However, they are no where near the full blown withdrawal I would feel if I were to begin withdrawing from Oxycodone cold turkey. As for cravings, I still do get them sometimes but can usually keep them at bay by keeping myself busy or distracted.

 

Since my drop to 1 mg once a day, I have been prescribed and have been taking a few medications to help with these symptoms. The first medication is Clonidine, which is used to help combat high blood pressure, the chills and cold sweats, restlessness, and lack of sleep some people get while withdrawing from opiates. I only take this medication at night (.2 mg) as it makes me drowsy. This medication certainly isn't an end all for withdrawal but it does help, especially with the sleep. The next medication I take is Advil which surprisingly helps quite a bit with achy joints and muscle cramps. I used to always laugh at the though of taking a medication like Advil when I was putting hundreds of milligrams of Oxycodone in my body but must say, the medication does help. The final medication I take is Requip, which is used to help with the restless legs. I take 1 mg at night but have found this medication to mediocre at best. 

 

The Next Step

 

 

I have talked with my doctor and stressed to her that I want to be at the lowest dose possible before I make the jump off of Suboxone to help avoid or minimize any potential withdrawal. Thankfully, she has been for the most part understanding and I think the next step will be to lower my dose from 1 mg to .5 mg once a day with .25 mg in the morning and .25 mg at night. I can only imagine what this will feel like but am confident I am moving in the right direction. I plan on making the jump off of Suboxone around .25 mg (maybe less if possible). Hopefully everything will go smoothly and according to plan but I am aware and prepared if I need a little more time.

 

I'm not really sure what kind of medications my doctor will prescribe me when I make the jump off of Suboxone as each doctor is different with his or her methods and beliefs. I'm hoping to continue getting and taking the Clonidine, Requip, and Advil. I am also hoping I can get something such as Xanex and Ambien to help with the restlessness, anxiety, and sleep issues that so often come along with opiate withdrawal. I plan on taking these medications for no more than 2 weeks due the risk of developing an addiction to some them, especially any Benzo.

 

I have heard Suboxone withdrawal is milder than the withdrawals one would experience form Oxycodone, Heroin, and other opiates but that the withdrawal from Suboxone tends to last longer. Basically, I'm anticipating going through a long, difficult month before things start to get better and easier once I make jump off of Suboxone. I'm not going to lie, I am very nervous and even scared that the withdrawal might be to difficult or that the cravings and mental aspect of it might push to me to use again. This is where I must use the skills and coping mechanisms I have learned over the past several months to overcome these obstacles. I got myself into this situation so I must have the courage, strength, effort, and willpower to get myself out of it.

 

Some Good Information About Suboxone Taper & Withdrawal

 

There is a lot of information out there on the internet about tapering off of Suboxone in addition to Suboxone withdrawal. This information also includes stories from people who have actually experienced or took part in Suboxone withdrawal or a taper regime. I have posted a few links below that I think might be helpful to some of you guys.

 

http://www.subotex.com/suboxone-tapering-withdrawal-worse-than-opiates/

 

http://www.addictionsurvivors.org/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=16678

 

http://suboxonetaper.com/

 

http://www.drugs.com/forum/need-talk/suboxone-taper-could-use-some-help-straight-point-62879.html

 

http://janaburson.wordpress.com/2012/08/21/taper-off-suboxone-using-the-films/

 

http://suboxone.com/patients/about_suboxone/Default.aspx

 

http://www.suboxonetalkzone.com/withdrawal-from-suboxone/

 

There are literally thousands of websites, blogs, and posts regarding Suboxone out there on the internet in addition to the ones I just posted. If you simply type in "Suboxone", "Suboxone Taper", or "Suboxone Withdrawal", you'll find yourself with tons of information at your disposal. Remember, knowledge is power!

 

Was Suboxone the Right Choice?

 

Since the very first day I got on Suboxone and even before I made the decision to get on the drug, I have asked myself is getting on Suboxone the right choice? I don't have an answer right now for you guys but I do have some input in regards to my particular situation.

 

My addiction to Oxycodone was really having an impact on my life and hurting not only myself but those closest to me. I was lying, spending thousands of dollars, and beginning to change as a person. While I still managed to successfully work and go to school, my heart and mind was never truly in it and involved. I was simply going through the motions, high on Oxycodone, and thinking about when and how I would score my next batch of pills. It wasn't living. It was just surviving life by dulling out any pain or emotion with the pills. Most importantly, it wasn't the real me.

 

As I mentioned, I had tried quitting Oxycodone cold turkey several times but each time ended up falling back to my old ways and habits. It was a never ending, painful cycle. My habit had grown to a ridiculous amount and the amount of money and things I was doing to get that money was something I still cringe at today. I needed to change.

 

 

So for me, getting on Suboxone helped me do that. I have managed to remain clean for the most part while being able to attend school, work, and spend time with family and friends. Things I would have never been able to do while withdrawing from Oxycodone. I think if someone can go cold turkey without having to quit school or their job, then that is great. But for me, it was something I couldn't do while going to school and working so I needed another option.

 

Since being on Suboxone, I have continued to work, go school, build sober support, learn coping mechanisms, meet the right people and get away from the wrong ones, and learn to live a life of not having to constantly worry about how and when to get these devilish pills. I have found that Suboxone is particularly helpful in allowing one time to figure out how to turn their life around and get rid of the old, bad habits of past. These steps are extremely important in learning to live as a sober individual.

 

At the same time, I know I am still on an opiate and will most likely face some kind of withdrawal in the end. I ask myself, will the withdrawal from Suboxone be easier or harder to face, longer or shorter, bearable or unbearable? These are all serious questions that I have still have no answer to. I have spent countless hours talking to people along with reading and researching on the Internet about people who have experienced or overcame Suboxone withdrawal only to get about a thousand different responses with some ranging form total Hell on Earth to a walk in the park. In the end, I must realize that everyone and their situation is different so I can't base everything on what someone says just like you guys can't base everything on this post you are reading right now. EVERYONE is different.

 

To sum things up, I can honestly say I am, as of right now, happy I made the decision to get on Suboxone. I know some people bash Suboxone and look at it as trading one drug for another, but if it wasn't for Suboxone, I would probably be out getting high, hurting the people I love and care for most, and destroying my life, morals, and reputation. I don't think there is really any way to totally avoid withdrawals when getting off opiates but I hope through my taper I am able to at least minimize them. I know withdrawals are just a fact of life and part of this game we put ourselves into, so I must be a man and face them at some point. Like my consoler always say, "this will probably be the hardest thing to accomplish in your life but is something you will feel so proud, happy, and good about if you overcome it."

 

Conclusion

 

I want to thank you guys once again for taking the time to read my blog and I really hope I can help some of you who find yourselves in a similar situation. Hopefully we can all find the strength and willpower to beat this thing we call addiction. It's not easy but it is possible, something we must all remember.

 

I would love to hear from you guys in the comment section about what you think of my situation. Any tips, suggestions, or past experiences would be greatly appreciated. Also, feel free to ask any questions or comment about anything that's on your mind. I will respond to each and every comment as soon as I can.

 

Thanks again Guys and take care. And remember, keep seeing that light.

 

Until next time,

 

Seeingthelight



My Experience With Suboxone

Hello everyone. I would like to welcome any readers of my previous post (Welcome Opiate Addicts) as well any new comers to my blog. If you want a introduction to my blog, the rules of the blog, what we stand for, and a quick history about myself and my addiction feel free to check out the following link: http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/welcome.html

I would like to use this blog post to discuss my experience with the drug Suboxone. I think most people on here have either heard of Suboxone or may have even used it but bear with me as I give some quick information about it to those who have little to no experience with this drug. Suboxone is used for a variety of things, most notably as an aid to help with both alcohol and opiate addiction. I won't go into much detail about the drug itself as I'm not a doctor and don't want this to seem like a lecture. Basically, Suboxone is classified as semi-synthetic opioid and consists of two main ingredients. These ingredients are Buprenorphine HCl and Naloxone HCl. The Buprenorphine is what will help with the withdrawals one would experience if he or she were stop using opiates after a period of time of continued use. Think of this ingredient as an opiate just like oxycodone ( I realize they are both completely different drugs but I'm trying to make things simple for now). Now one would ask why the hell would a doctor prescribe an opiate addict with an opiate to help battle addiction? This is where the next ingredient comes into play. The second ingredient is the Naloxone which is put into the Suboxone as a means of preventing abuse. The Naloxone prevents users from snorting, swallowing, or injecting the Suboxone as an attempt to get high off of the Buprenorphine. Users of Suboxone must take it sublingually (under the tongue) and if one is try to abuse the Suboxone by snorting or injecting it, they will instantly become sick due to the presence of the Naloxone.

Suboxone 8 mg Pill

Suboxone helps a lot of opiate addicts for a number of reasons. The most popular reason being that the Suboxone will help prevent most withdrawal symptoms that one would experience if they were to go cold turkey off their drug of choice (DOC) opiate without the aid of Suboxone. The body does not go into withdrawals due to the presence of an opiate being in the body (the Buprenorphine). If Suboxone is taken correctly, it allows a person to be able to continue their everyday lives comfortably without the fear of withdrawals. This can be crucial for those who have to work, go to school, take care of children, ect...Another reason why Suboxone has become so popular over the years recently is due to its ability to help deal with cravings. Because your body is getting an opiate with the Suboxone, the brain receptors (see for more information on how addiction affects the brain) are able to stay relatively normal. However this is NOT to say, from both knowledge and personal experiences, that the Suboxone is some miracle drug that will completely take away all cravings. However, I will say it does help and to help combat these cravings is where meetings (AA or NA) combined with talking with a friend, family member, or consular can come in handy.

For more information about Suboxone, check out the following links:

http://www.suboxone.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine
http://www.drugs.com/suboxone.html
http://www.rxlist.com/suboxone-drug.htm

Now that we're finished with my chemistry lesson on Suboxone, lets move on to my experience with the drug. I won't go into full detail about my past (I did this in my first post if you wish to know more check it out) but to paint a better picture I'll tell my fellow readers some quick facts. I'm a 25 year old male who has had an addiction to the Oxycodone 30 mg pills. My use of the drug has lasted over 3 years and I was using the drug on a daily basis for 2 years. I am currently prescribed Suboxone through a outpatient program and see both a consular and doctor weekly. I simply take life day by day and I am currently almost 4 months clean off of Oxycodone with the help of the Suboxone. I have also not smoked weed or done any other drugs or drinking besides tobacco. If you were to ask me on a scale of 1-10 on how I would rate my overall experience with Suboxone thus far, I would give it a 8. If you were to ask me how I currently feel on a scale of 1-10, I would say between a 7-8. Overall, I believe Suboxone can be a useful tool in helping one battle their addiction to Oxycodone or other such opiates.

If you are interested into getting on a Suboxone program, there are a few steps you must do and things you should know. First, it is important that you go into a program such as this with the true desire of getting clean. Don't be joining a program such as this to simply have a prescription for "backup pills" in case you can't find or have the money for opiates. I'm not trying to sound like a jerk but am saying this because programs can only accept a certain number of people to prescribe Suboxone to so why take someones spot who is truly attempting to get clean? Also, if you do fail out of the program, it gives you a bad reputation and could make getting help in the future more difficult than it has to be. The next thing you should know going into a program such as this is that it can be quite expensive. I can't talk for everyone but the costs of my program are not too bad but do create a little bit of a dent in the pockets. For example, I must see the doctor and consular each once a week. Each appointment I must pay a co-payment of $25. I also pay about $40 each time (every 2 weeks) for my Suboxone prescription. It really depends on your insurance and the place you are going too, so don't be surprised to hear and see different costs when going from place to place. I have heard of people with good insurance who pay practically nothing while I know of others who lack insurance and are forced to pay thousands if they wish to seek Suboxone treatment.  My best tip is do your research, make calls early and often, and find a place that you feel will truly help you in battling your addiction. The way I looked at it was that I would be spending more money buying Oxycodone off the streets if it were not for the outpatient program I am in.

It is important to note that not all doctors can prescribe Suboxone. In fact, doctors are required to obtain a license to prescribe Suboxone so don't expect your primary care doctor to be able to prescribe you Suboxone. However, it should be noted that it is important to keep your primary care doctor up to date with what is going on in your life and in regards to your health. Finding a doctor who can prescribe Suboxone is not very difficult. In fact, simply go to the following link: http://www.suboxone.com/patients/opioid_dependence/find_a_doctor.aspx , then go to the doctor locater tab where it will instruct you to enter your zip code. The website is ran by Suboxone and will help you find doctors who can prescribe Suboxone in the nearby area. Be sure to take down a couple names of doctors as you will most likely have to call around to find a program accepting new patients. You may get lucky and find a doctor accepting patients who lives right down the street. Or you may be less fortunate and be stuck with having to take a 45 minute drive each week to see the doctor. For me, I had to call 4 different places before I finally came across a place that was accepting new patients. The place ended up being pretty close to my house and is a pretty nice outpatient program to be in. If you are not successful getting into a program at first, do not give up! Be sure to make a list of places you have called and ask each receptionist to take down your name to call you back in case there are any future openings. You'd be surprised at how many and how frequently patients drop out of programs such as these.

While all programs and doctors are different, I am going to give you my experience and requirements during my program. A requirement of my program is that the patient must be willing to see a drug consular at least twice a month in addition to seeing the doctor once a week during the early stages of the program. During each visit with the doctor and consular, I am required to take a urine screen drug test. The drug test serves 2 purposes; (1) to make sure the patient is clean (2) to make sure the patient is taking the Suboxone and not selling it. The rule of thumb in my program was that if you fail the drug test you get a warning the first time. The next time you fail you are forced to take part in a intensive outpatient program which meets 3 days a week for 5 hours each day. The third time you fail the drug test you are kicked out of the program. Every program is different, some stricter then others. I have heard of people being able to smoke weed or drink while on the Suboxone program as long as they remained clean off opiates when testing. On the other hand, I have heard of people being kicked out of a program after failing a drug screen after a night out of drinking. In my opinion, the stricter, the better as it will help keep you on track. However, I am a big believer in 2nd chances and think everyone screws up once in awhile. I believe if a patient is really trying to get help and get clean, then the doctor should reevaluate the patient and determine whats best rather then just going by a strict set of rules.

The meetings with the doctor are always very quick (usually no more than 15 minutes) while the meetings with the drug consular run about an hour. The meetings with the doctor are basically for just making sure the patient is having no side effects and that the dosage is working for them. The meetings with the drug consular are more for helping the patient in dealing with their addiction and staying clean. Another requirement of the program is that the patient attend AA or NA meetings. However, in my program this isn't monitored so it is real easy to get around with not attending meetings. I personally have never been to a meeting in my life but I have heard countless stories of how they have really helped others with their struggles. My main reason behind not going is basically fear, not knowing what to expect, and running into someone I know. I am also a more realist type of person and while I am a Catholic, I am not overly religious. However, this is not to say AA or NA is all about religion because it is certainly not. In fact, these meetings do not associate themselves with a certain religion or set of beliefs. The 'Higher Power" you always hear about from these meetings can be anything you wish it to be. Some people chose God as there "Higher Power" while others simply refer to the group as their "Higher Power". I have heard of some people choosing things such as doorknobs, their pet dog, or their own mother as their choice of a "Higher Power." The only requirement for AA or NA is that those attending respect one another and have a desire to get clean. To check out both NA and AA meetings close to you, simply check out there websites. Again, I do not have much experience in regards to these meetings but certainly respect their ability to help others and even hope to check one out myself soon.



Some important things I would like to briefly touch upon with Suboxone:

• Suboxone comes in a pill form or a strip form (think Listerine breath mint strips). Both to be dissolved under the tongue. The pill takes about 10-20 minutes to dissolve where the strips dissolve much faster (usually less then 5 minutes). Both have a rather nasty taste, although some people claim they like it. This was my experience with both the pills and strips anyways and I choose to stay with the strips over the pills.
• Suboxone must be taken by placing either the pill or strip under the tongue and left to dissolve. If you try to swallow, snort, or inject Suboxone you risk the possibility of going into precipitated withdrawal due the Naloxone. The reason you do not go into precipitated withdrawal by taking the Suboxone under the tongue as directed is because the Nalaxone is not fully absorbed through the disgestive track in your body where as if you were to inject it or snort, it would be absorbed by other means causing these unwanted side effects.
• Some people say they experience a slight high off of the Suboxone the first couple of times taking it. This high will usually not occur after you get used to the drug. In my experience I have never experienced a high when taking the Suboxone.
• Suboxone will also limit your ability to get high off of other opiates while you are on Suboxone.
• It is extremely important to remember that you must "detox" yourself off of any opiates before you take Suboxone. Each opiate has it's own length of time to leave your body before you can safely take the Suboxone. For example, you should be OK to take the Suboxone if you have given yourself at least 24 hours before your last dose of Oxycodone. Meanwhile a medication such as Methadone takes much longer. I do not have any experience with Methadone but from what I have heard, it takes a matter of days to even weeks before one can make the jump from Methadone to Suboxone. Do your research and talk with doctor about this matter before taking Suboxone. BE HONEST! You do not want to go into precipitated withdrawals because you didn't wait long enough to make the jump.
• For the most part, Suboxone will help greatly with the withdrawals you would normally experience if you were to stop taking/go cold turkey off of an opiate. Everyone is different, some people feel 100% great while others still feel the effects of withdrawals when on Suboxone. For me, the Suboxone probably takes aways 90% of withdrawals I would normally experience if I were to stop taking opiates totally.
• Suboxone doesn't take away all of the cravings but it does help significantly. This is where meetings, therapy, picking up new hobbies becomes important.
• Suboxone is like nearly every other opiate in that it is also addicting and can be misused. You will eventually go through withdrawals when coming off of Suboxone. From my experience and what I have heard, the withdrawals from Suboxone are not as bad as they are from say Oxycodone, but the withdrawals from Suboxone do drag out a little longer than other opiates. It is recommended that you slowly wean yourself off of Suboxone over a period of time best decided upon by yourself and your doctor.
• Suboxone has a relatively long half life, meaning it takes longer to exit your body. This is why the withdrawals tend be longer then most opiates and why the withdrawals of Suboxone don't really start to kick in until about 36-72 hours off of your last dose of Suboxone.
• Finally, Suboxone is only a tool to help you with ending your addiction to opiates. While some people stay on Suboxone for years or even life, most will eventually look to come off the Suboxone and opiates in general at some point of their lives. Suboxone is useful by allowing the user to avoid withdrawals but not get the feeling of being high while on it. It can allow users to get their lives back together, gather support, get jobs or start school, and learn about themselves. In my experience it helped a lot with the withdrawals and cravings but everyone is different. I honestly do not think I would be 4 months clean off Oxycodone if not for Suboxone and the support I am getting but again, everyone is different. You and doctor should decide whats best.

In my case, Suboxone has helped me greatly with getting my life back together and learning more about both myself and my addiction. I want to note that I didn't feel totally normal until about my third day of being on Suboxone. I believe this may have been because my body was getting used to the drug and it needed to build up in my system. Getting drug tested and talking with my consular, family, friends, and doctor has given me more structure and someone to answer to which helps greatly in my opinion. Suboxone is a powerful drug and as mentioned, can be addicting. If you can, try to start at a dose that's low yet helps you feel comfortable. I have been prescribed 4mg once a day and have stayed at this dose the entire 4 months of my recovery period. I was quite a heavy user of Oxycodone (180-300 mg a day) yet found this dose to be efficient. In my opinion, some doctors either over prescribe or under prescribe so it is important you talk well with your doctor. However, don't play doctor and mess around with your dosing, just be honest with yourself and support network. I would also like to note that there are other options to getting clean and Suboxone is just one of many. Once again, I cannot stress, do your research and talk with your support networks often.



This is my second post overall in my new blog that I have just created. As I said before, I am a addict of Oxycodone. My Drug of Choice (DOC) was the Oxycodone 30 mg pills (A215, M30, 224, Blue Vs). I am now about 4 months clean off of Oxycodone with the help of Suboxone (4mg once a day) and feel pretty good both physically and mentally. I am currently part of an outpatient program where I see a consular and doctor each once a week. Overall, the Suboxone has been a great tool in helping with overcoming my addiction and I hope to one day get off the Suboxone and be done with opiates completely. I will keep posting and encourage anyone who reads this to comment on any of my posts. If you have a friend or family member who suffers from an addiction such as Oxycodone or something similar feel free to tell them about my blog. I do not get any money or anything like that for doing this, I simply wish to share my experiences and knowledge in this area to help others. I would like to thank everyone who reads or comments on my blog and wish you all the best of luck in battling your inner demons. I know I am still pretty early in recovery but feel like I can help others through this blog. Again, thank you guys for listening and pitching in. And remember keep trying to see that light, it is there.

Take Care,

Seeingthelight