Methadone - Lifer

[slightly_paranoid]

I have recently made the realization of my past addiction problems: It's simple.......it's pain. Emotionaly pain or physical pain or sometimes both. I have a curvature of the spine that almost requires a back brace and have come to the realization that I've been trying to kill that pain on my own my whole life. Then, when I'm not in physical pain, I am INTENSE emotional pain from the mistreatment and verbal abuses I've endured since a child. My friends joke and say I have the worst luck ever but its gotten to a point to where bad things are said to me so often that I can't even keep up. Feels like I'm targeted at times.
But anyway. I am hoping to hear from some Methadone success stories. I am considering getting on it for life. I have had doctors who did genetic testing on me and straight up said that my body does not produce endorphins. The problem is I've been in Opiate Use Disorder therapy and on Suboxone but it is only covering the withdrawal and is doing nothing for the emotional pain. I really feel like I need to see a pain specialist. I scheduled an earlier appointment with my Addiction Doctor and we're going to discuss pros/cons of both Suboxone and Methadone and how to best go about getting on Methadone if that's what we decide to pursue. I personally like methadone better because it helps me more. I honestly think I'd be able to stop my small benzo Rx and they're going to make me stop it if I get on Methadone and think it will help with anxiety. The Suboxone feels "speedy" which is not what I need. I don't mind going to a clinic everyday for say a month but that's it and then I want it called in monthly. Does it work like that? Will I have to jump through hoops? The Suboxone appointments are super easy since I'm doing so well and is currently very convenient, which is a huge pro for Suboxone. However, my doc cannot prescribe Methadone but he's in the scene and will be able to tell me the best clinic to go to for my needs. I want to be there surrounded by other people that want to do better.
I've tried complete abstinance and it SUCKED. I need medication and there's nothing wrong with that. People in NA that scold you for being on medications, just ask if they have a PhD.......freaking ignorance. When I was on nothing, I struggled to keep a job, consistently depressed and ANXIOUS, never shared in meetings because they made my anxiety much worse. I'm looking for someone that's been on both that can help me think this through.

 

[SeekingOblivion]

Federal law that governs the clinics has loosened up just recently with regards to take-homes, but you will not be able to call the shots in the way that you’re describing if you switch to methadone.

 

[slightly_paranoid]

That's good to hear that they've loosened up with the take homes. I understand that I will not be able to call the shots like I can now if I get on Methadone. I expect to have to jump through a few hoops but it is what it is. I want to go the pain management route instead of the Opiate Use Disorder (OUD) route. The pain management route using methadone is usually a much smaller dose than someone getting it for OUD. That's fine with me. As long as it dulls the back pain some and helps me stop crying every other day, then I'll be happy. It really has been that bad. I am on an antidepressant that is working because I know it would be 10x worse without it. I am currently able to function but I want to thrive - whether it be Suboxone or Methadone. I have accepted to be on one or the other my entire life. The quality of life is much better for me on maintenance therapy. I am just still struggling with emotional pain. I have forgiven EVERY asshole in my life, but that doesn't kill the pain that they caused. I used to sweep all the bad stuff in my life under a rug and now I've lifted it and am cleaning the crap out of it. I am facing my fears head on and choosing to forgive.

 

[SeekingOblivion]

I’m sorry you’re in pain, and I hope you find the best treatment possible.

 

[slightly_paranoid]

Thanks buddy. It's intermittent but when it's bad....it's bad.

 

[TuRBO_RaINBOW]

Glad you reached out. While I'm not experienced with opi, I think it's valid to be on MAT or Methadone for pain management for however long you want. Your body your choice.

If it improves your quality of life, then that's a positive imo. Don't listen to some people who get high and mighty about it. Really hope you can find a course of treatment that works for you soon!

 

[neversickanymore]

So two recommendations is to have your vitamin D levels checked at least twice a year and also your Testosterone levels checked yearly if your male. I would see a good endocrinologist if you’re going to be on long term methadone maintenance.

I’ll link up why when i get up on my laptop.

 

[neversickanymore]

here are things you likely should consider.. i really haven’t researched this in a minute.. but non the less.

Methadone side effects, separating fact and fiction.

Low vitamin d status of patients in methadone maintenance treatment.

Methadone

Neuropathic Pain: Causes, Management and Understanding

Hypogonadism and Low Testosterone Levels as a Side Effect of Methadone and Buprenorphine
Hypogonadism in men receiving methadone and buprenorphine maintenance treatment.

Long-term Opioids Linked to Hypogonadism and the Role of Testosterone Supplementation Therapy - PMC

Opioids play a pivotal role in managing chronic pain with increasing prescription rates over the last few years. Hence, it is crucial to focus on the adverse effects of narcotics, and one of the lesser-known side effects is hypogonadism. Opioids act ...

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Checking your browser - reCAPTCHA

Methadone Injection: Package Insert / Prescribing Info / MOA

Methadone Injection package insert / prescribing information for healthcare professionals. Includes: indications, dosage, adverse reactions and pharmacology.

www.drugs.com

 

[rplate81]

I have recently made the realization of my past addiction problems: It's simple.......it's pain. Emotionaly pain or physical pain or sometimes both. I have a curvature of the spine that almost requires a back brace and have come to the realization that I've been trying to kill that pain on my own my whole life. Then, when I'm not in physical pain, I am INTENSE emotional pain from the mistreatment and verbal abuses I've endured since a child. My friends joke and say I have the worst luck ever but its gotten to a point to where bad things are said to me so often that I can't even keep up. Feels like I'm targeted at times.
But anyway. I am hoping to hear from some Methadone success stories. I am considering getting on it for life. I have had doctors who did genetic testing on me and straight up said that my body does not produce endorphins. The problem is I've been in Opiate Use Disorder therapy and on Suboxone but it is only covering the withdrawal and is doing nothing for the emotional pain. I really feel like I need to see a pain specialist. I scheduled an earlier appointment with my Addiction Doctor and we're going to discuss pros/cons of both Suboxone and Methadone and how to best go about getting on Methadone if that's what we decide to pursue. I personally like methadone better because it helps me more. I honestly think I'd be able to stop my small benzo Rx and they're going to make me stop it if I get on Methadone and think it will help with anxiety. The Suboxone feels "speedy" which is not what I need. I don't mind going to a clinic everyday for say a month but that's it and then I want it called in monthly. Does it work like that? Will I have to jump through hoops? The Suboxone appointments are super easy since I'm doing so well and is currently very convenient, which is a huge pro for Suboxone. However, my doc cannot prescribe Methadone but he's in the scene and will be able to tell me the best clinic to go to for my needs. I want to be there surrounded by other people that want to do better.
I've tried complete abstinance and it SUCKED. I need medication and there's nothing wrong with that. People in NA that scold you for being on medications, just ask if they have a PhD.......freaking ignorance. When I was on nothing, I struggled to keep a job, consistently depressed and ANXIOUS, never shared in meetings because they made my anxiety much worse. I'm looking for someone that's been on both that can help me think this through.

I am in the exact same situation- on bupe for OUD but I have legit chronic pain that is documented with imaging etc. I'll admit that I am an addict, but it's scary to think that I'll never get prescribed anything more than Gabapentin ever again. I haven't picked up the script yet, but My doctor recently put me on Butrans though for pain. That has me thinking now, I am on bupe for OUD, but Butrans for pain. That seems like a contradiction to me.

 

[Jnowhere]

Butrans, are Bupe patches. I think, that you are on just on more Bupe( I far to lazy to look up the spelling of Buprenorphine,lol)

I am in the exact same situation- on bupe for OUD but I have legit chronic pain that is documented with imaging etc. I'll admit that I am an addict, but it's scary to think that I'll never get prescribed anything more than Gabapentin ever again. I haven't picked up the script yet, but My doctor recently put me on Butrans though for pain. That has me thinking now, I am on bupe for OUD, but Butrans for pain. That seems like a contradiction to me.

So, more bupe. According to A.I. on my phone; it is also used to treat moderate to severe pain in patients who are resistant, to other opiods. More class 3 opiods, and you are in pain.

I wonder if more would be better, or worse. Are you trying to get off all opiods?

 

[rplate81]

Butrans, are Bupe patches. I think, that you are on just on more Bupe( I far to lazy to look up the spelling of Buprenorphine,lol)

So, more bupe. According to A.I. on my phone; it is also used to treat moderate to severe pain in patients who are resistant, to other opiods. More class 3 opiods, and you are in pain.

I wonder if more would be better, or worse. Are you trying to get off all opiods?

Yes, I am aware that Butrans and Belbuca are for pain management usually whereas Suboxone/buprenorphine are usually for OUD/MAT.

I just turned 44 and I've had a problem with opiates since 19. I've either been on Suboxone or Methadone ( worst withdrawals ever) for the last 10 years.

I have been back on buprenorphine for about 5 years after tapering it only to relapse on a stash of bupe that I had hidden away, embarrassing.

I don't think I trust myself without being on something. I even fell into the 7oh trap, but recently stopped taking it. Threw what I had away, I am scared of it, it was making me sick & it's not regulated so who knows what is in it. It did help for pain though.

But yeah, I thought that it was contradictory that he had been prescribing me buprenorphine for OUD for 5 years, & now I am on Butrans for pain. He also wanted to give me Cymbalta, bullshit. I'm going to take him up though next appointment so that I can tell him that it doesn't work, (not gonna take an SSRI for pain). I have already been prescribed Lyrica & Gabapentin, I don't like them much, nor do they help for actual pain.

My PCP referred me to pain management 3 years ago. I didn't go through with it after reading the reviews and talking to their receptionist who told me that I have to sign a contract binding me to that clinic before I even get to SEE the doctor.

So I'm going to play along with him and try whatever he has to throw at me just to have it on my records. I'm not doing it in an attempt to eventually get an opiate script, not going to happen. I just want it on my record that I have tried everything that there is to try for pain to prove to them that I am not crying wolf, I have legit pain on a regular basis.

 

[rplate81]

here are things you likely should consider.. i really haven’t researched this in a minute.. but non the less.

Yeah, I have been on testosterone gel for a few years. I need to go right now to pick up syringes and testosterone at the pharmacy because that is the only way that I can get it now. Never stuck myself with anything, but it's 1 time a week not everyday.

 

[Jnowhere]

Yes, I am aware that Butrans and Belbuca are for pain management usually whereas Suboxone/buprenorphine are usually for OUD/MAT.

I just turned 44 and I've had a problem with opiates since 19. I've either been on Suboxone or Methadone ( worst withdrawals ever) for the last 10 years.

I have been back on buprenorphine for about 5 years after tapering it only to relapse on a stash of bupe that I had hidden away, embarrassing.

I don't think I trust myself without being on something. I even fell into the 7oh trap, but recently stopped taking it. Threw what I had away, I am scared of it, it was making me sick & it's not regulated so who knows what is in it. It did help for pain though.

But yeah, I thought that it was contradictory that he had been prescribing me buprenorphine for OUD for 5 years, & now I am on Butrans for pain. He also wanted to give me Cymbalta, bullshit. I'm going to take him up though next appointment so that I can tell him that it doesn't work, (not gonna take an SSRI for pain). I have already been prescribed Lyrica & Gabapentin, I don't like them much, nor do they help for actual pain.

My PCP referred me to pain management 3 years ago. I didn't go through with it after reading the reviews and talking to their receptionist who told me that I have to sign a contract binding me to that clinic before I even get to SEE the doctor.

So I'm going to play along with him and try whatever he has to throw at me just to have it on my records. I'm not doing it in an attempt to eventually get an opiate script, not going to happen. I just want it on my record that I have tried everything that there is to try for pain to prove to them that I am not crying wolf, I have legit pain on a regular basis.

Does the Bupe help pain? So a real script is what you want, and not a bupe patch, to add to it?

 

[neversickanymore]

Yeah, I have been on testosterone gel for a few years. I need to go right now to pick up syringes and testosterone at the pharmacy because that is the only way that I can get it now. Never stuck myself with anything, but it's 1 time a week not everyday.

Yeah the gel is kinda bs imho.. I just don’t think it works very well, glad your schedule is weekly it evens out the peaks and valleys big time.

Relax your muscle completely if your
IM ing. The needle is going to be big because test is suspended in oil. You can absolutely run a 21 gauge needle.. it just takes a couple seconds.

Clean the is with the alcohol prep pad, relax every muscle in and near the injection site and really the only thing that really hurts is puncture of the skin.

Also what you want is two needles with every syringe.. you want a 3ml syringe, a 16 gage.. (pink package needle) to draw
and a 21 gauge needle (blue package) to inject. This may seem confusing and silly but pharmacy employees hate trying to identify syringes. So this gives them a really easy way to do this and once they get to know you it’s automatic… your like I’m picking up my test.. and they are like “pink and blue.” So everyone wins.

 

[rplate81]

Yeah the gel is kinda bs imho.. I just don’t think it works very well, glad your schedule is weekly it evens out the peaks and valleys big time.

Relax your muscle completely if your
IM ing. The needle is going to be big because test is suspended in oil. You can absolutely run a 21 gauge needle.. it just takes a couple seconds.

Clean the is with the alcohol prep pad, relax every muscle in and near the injection site and really the only thing that really hurts is puncture of the skin.

Also what you want is two needles with every syringe.. you want a 3ml syringe, a 16 gage.. (pink package needle) to draw
and a 21 gauge needle (blue package) to inject. This may seem confusing and silly but pharmacy employees hate trying to identify syringes. So this gives them a really easy way to do this and once they get to know you it’s automatic… your like I’m picking up my test.. and they are like “pink and blue.” So everyone wins.

Alright, thank you for the information. So I went to my pharmacy on Saturday and the syringes were ready, but the pharmacist told me that I need to message my doctor and tell him that my insurance needs a diagnostic code?? Change code and reset new prescription, so it might be a while until I get the testosterone.

 

[rplate81]

Does the Bupe help pain? So a real script is what you want, and not a bupe patch, to add to it?

Well, I am on bupe 2mg pills for MAT OUD, all that shit haha, but since I have chronic pain as well then IMO, no not at all. When I started about 5 years ago, I was not in any pain at all and now that I am, I see no contrast.

I am willing to try anything, trying to obtain a script for opioid painkillers will never happen for me, so I'm not trying to burn through every med in hopes of getting to opioids eventually. The thing with the Butrans is that I guess that buprenorphine in really low increments does help with pain. I mainly hear that people who got switched to them from full opioid agonists are super upset because it's not helping like their prior scripts, and those all got yanked out from them when switching to the Butrans patched.

 

[jasperkent]

Personally, I love methadone. It's good for pain, lifts my mood, gives me energy, and lasts all day.

I wouldn't mind being on it for life as long as I was certain of a steady supply.

 

[Them Witches]

Personally, I love methadone. It's good for pain, lifts my mood, gives me energy, and lasts all day.

Same here. Methadone is my secondary pain medications and Roxicodone is my primary pain medications. It is the best PO combo available IMO for long-term opioid treatment.

 

[4DQSAR]

It was another BLer who noted that the various high-dose formulations of buprenorphine (all of which are patented ensuring twenty years assured income for the makers) are simply replacing methadone as a form of opiate-substituution therapy.

I believe buprenorphine is considered to be around 32.5 times more potent than morphine in terms of analgesic activity so whenever I hear of people with quite small habits ending up being given 16,24 or even 32mg buprenorphine/day are actually being driven into a much worse physical dependence.

As I understand it the theory is that the huge doses blockade the opiate receptors so consuming any other opioid would not produce any notable effects.

All I can say is that 4mg of buprenorphine taken for a week was enough for me. Officially each day I was taking 2mg more, the goal being to increase the daily dose to 16mg. But intractable anxiety meant I couldn't increase and the HR workers advised me to obtain a pill-cutter and only take as much as I needed. So even decades ago it was recognized that the way buprenorphine was/is being prescribed isn't in the best interests of the client.

The original discoverers of buprenorphine demonstrated that a calculated dose taken for 7-14 days was optimal back in 1975. But most people aren't aware that there was a totally different protocol and it's been systematically undermined.

So for pain, the original study used 50, 100 and 200μg every 6 to 8 hours (via SC injection) but that still means if a buccal or sublingual formulation only has circa 40% bioavailability, that's still less than a milligram... but taken 3 or 4 times a day.

I also note that if someone is seriously injured, paramedics cannot use morphine to reduce the pain. I've been told that in UK hospitals it's the realm of anethetists and registrars to prescribe either ketamine (since it's analgesia isn't based on opiod activity) or an extremely potent opiate. One person mentioned sufentanil but I cannot confirm that detail. But however you look at it, buprenorphine has downsides most people don't consider and makers remain strangely silent about.

 

[Them Witches]

I also note that if someone is seriously injured, paramedics cannot use morphine to reduce the pain. I've been told that in UK hospitals it's the realm of anethetists and registrars to prescribe either ketamine (since it's analgesia isn't based on opiod activity) or an extremely potent opiate. One person mentioned sufentanil but I cannot confirm that detail. But however you look at it, buprenorphine has downsides most people don't consider and makers remain strangely silent about.

I have seen the same thing happen to people I know and have read reports saying the same thing.