Drug Holidays

[Guest guest]

I don't know much about how it works, but the thought is that the receptors

in the brain become accustomed to the meds over time, which is why we often

need increasing doses.

Doc said you cut down the meds slowly..some people stop them for a short

time (days), which allows the body to begin producing its own endorphins

again, and 'clean' the receptors, allowing the person to get the relief from

10mg of OxyContin they did when they first began taking it.

He mentioned it because I have rotated through several meds, which only

lessens your future choices..he says 'what are you going to do in 10

years?', and he does have a point..if I need to increase doses at this rate.

I have no plans to try a 'holiday' from meds, as the thought scares me to

death..literally. But pharmacalogically it is correct. My sis-in-law is an

MD, and she has had several CP patients 're-set' their med levels this way.

I am in no way advocating this for anyone..just passing along the

information that it is being proposed to patients who are at the prescribing

limits for their clinics. Even rotating meds, you quickly get to the level

you had left..and need more. It's really a problem for some folks..and I

worry that my own pain doc will tell me we're out of options. I will then

ask about the pump, because Dilaudid seems to work, and the doses are very

low. However, there is a problem relieving shoulder pain with the pump..so a

combination may be necessary.

We do present quite a challenge to put MDs..as the problems are so

widespread, long term, and variable. I would suggest if you are seeing a GP

for pain control, and you are having trouble with meds or doses that

work..that you begin researching pain clinics or pain specialists in your

area. They know a lot about what is available. When a GP gets frustrated, he

refers you out. It's good to have a place to go..maybe even where you have

spoken with the MD.

I try to plan ahead..after several surprises and panic filled days trying to

find a place to go when I was told 'this month' was my last of pain meds.

I hope you can find relief..do research things on the net..there are several

good pain sites..one is www.braintalk.org at Harvard Chronic Pain2 is the

active site, and full of information..especially through the archives if you

have a specific question. There are sites for spinal and many neurological

issues..Another is PainWorld in Oz, though it's not as technical.

Take good care,

Jean