when methadose no longer helps

[dazyrose]

i have been on 15mg methadose three times a day since major surgery 8 years ago.  i also am allowed to take vicodin two times a day.  i am first very concerned about becoming addicted even though pain levels are excruciating and only take vicodin when times get very bad.  doctor recently tried the 6 day steroid pkg and i had great releif from pain but i am scared to take them on constant basis as he suggests i do because 20 years ago on steroids i went into cushinoid state and took over 1 and half years to get off the prednisone at that time.  is there any other type of pain treatment for anyone with chronic pain when methadose no longer keeps the pain under control?

[dazyrose]

I want to thank you both so very much for taking the time to respond.  I am so glad I found the pain forum and such wonderful, caring people!  your information has helped me a lot and i am going to talk to my pain doctor about it.  You have both given me hope and new ideas for my treatment and i am truly grateful!
thank you both so very much!!

[Tuckamore]

Hi Dazyrose,

Welcome to our Pain Mangement Forum. I am glad that you found us but sorry to hear about our chronic pain. We can relate.

I understand your concern of developing a cushingoid state. It occurs fairly frequently with the long term use of steroids. My decision to take steroids would be dictated by the condition that they were to treat. For example if I had severe inflammation and swelling in my spine that was causing nerve compression I would probably take the steroids and live with the side effects. Sometimes a once monthly dosing or every other month can keep the inflammation and swelling in check. I would take the lowest dose for the least amount of time that was still effective.

You are not on a huge dose of methadone. Possibly changing opiates or even an increase of your current pain medication would also help control your symptoms.

Regarding other pain treatments to control your CP there are others available the question is will they work for you. I do not know your condition but possibly a holistic approach is a possibility, a TENS unit, acupuncture, PT and so on.

Whatever you decide make it an educated decision. Please let us know how you are doing. We are here to support you. I will look forward to your updates.

Take Care,
Tuck

[sandee1818]

Hi,
yes there are many different options available to you.
There are several different extended release formulas like oxycontin and MS contin and others.
Talk to your doctor about trying an ER version and see how it works for you.
Let us know and keep us up to date. Were here if you need support or just want to talk:)