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howie
Member
Reged: 09/23/02
Posts: 169
Loc: kansas city
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I have had back problems in the past but with my new work I am not doing as much as the physical things I used to do and have decided that I was going to cut back on the Norco I took.
I was taking 30 or 35mg a day for almost 3 years.
Then in the last month or so, I have been taking about 15 mg a day and tapering down and then try to split in half and take 5mg and then a 7.5 but I get cramps in my stomach and irritation. Not much diahara because that happened when i tappered from 30-to (12.5-10 mg) a day.I had a few leftover percocet from the dentist that and are 5 mg.
I have not had a Norco in almost 48 hours but have had 12.5 mg of oxycodone in that same time period. I split them in quarters and take during the day. I only have about 3 left so I thought i would take those to help offset some of the withdrawals and also some xanax and it has helped but my question is, am I wasting my time by taking the oxy because it breaks down the same as hydro or with it being a different medication, I am actually doing good by not taking the hydrocodone and by not taking it I will not crave it? I know they are both opiates, but different medications.
The hardest thing is stomach cramps and getting to sleep for me. It is after 2am here. I have just about started the holiday but just want to know if that is too much cheating with the oxy. I don't have enough of them to get addicted to them and only want to take hydro when i hurt, not everyday so I want to not take any hydro for 10-14 days to know I don't have to be dependent. I am on almost 48 hours come 8am in the morning. Any suggestions or comments?
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imzchef
Stranger
Reged: 02/12/05
Posts: 16
Loc: New England
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Howie, probable WAY to much info but this came frome drugs.com , a very good source of info, hopes it helps
Norco
acetaminophen and hydrocodone (ah see ta MIH no fen and hye dreo KOE done)
Anexsia, Anolor DH5, Bancap HC, Dolacet, Lorcet 10/650, Lorcet HD, Lorcet Plus, Lortab, Lortab 10, Lortab 5/500, Lortab 7.5/500, Lortab Elixir, Norco, T-Gesic, Vicodin, Vicodin ES, Vicodin HP, Zydone
What is the most important information I should know about Norco?
Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Norco is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
Avoid alcohol while taking Norco. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by the medication, possibly resulting in unconsciousness and death. Also, acetaminophen can be damaging to the liver when taken with alcohol.
Norco may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Norco is taken with any of these medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
Norco may cause constipation. Drink plenty of water (six to eight full glasses a day) to lessen this side effect. Increased fiber in the diet may also help to alleviate constipation.
What is Norco?
Hydrocodone (related to codeine) is in a class of drugs called narcotic analgesics. It relieves pain.
Acetaminophen is a less potent pain reliever that increases the effects of hydrocodone.
Together, acetaminophen and hydrocodone are used to relieve moderate-to-severe pain.
Norco may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Norco?
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
· a history of alcohol or drug abuse;
· kidney disease;
· liver disease;
· asthma;
· urinary retention;
· an enlarged prostate;
· hypothyroidism;
· seizures or epilepsy;
· gallbladder disease;
· a head injury; or
· Addison's disease.
You may not be able to take Norco, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Norco is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
Norco passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
If you are younger than 18 years of age or older than 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Norco. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose.
How should I take Norco?
Take Norco exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Take Norco with food or milk if it causes stomach upset.
To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of Norco with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Norco is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
Norco may cause constipation. Drink plenty of water (six to eight full glasses a day) to lessen this side effect. Increased fiber in the diet may also help to alleviate constipation.
Store Norco at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take a double dose of this medication. Wait the prescribed amount of time before taking the next dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
Symptoms of an Norco overdose may include slow breathing, seizures, dizziness, weakness, loss of consciousness, coma, confusion, tiredness, cold and clammy skin, small pupils, nausea, vomiting, and sweating.
What should I avoid while taking Norco?
Avoid alcohol while taking Norco. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by the medication, possibly resulting in unconsciousness and death. Also, acetaminophen can be damaging to the liver when taken with alcohol.
Norco may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Norco is taken with any of these medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Hydrocodone may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities.
Other products may also contain acetaminophen, especially over-the-counter pain, fever, cold, and allergy medications. Do not take any other products that contain acetaminophen without first talking to your doctor. Too much acetaminophen can be dangerous.
What are the possible side effects of Norco?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Norco and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· slow, weak breathing;
· seizures;
· cold, clammy skin;
· severe weakness or dizziness;
· unconsciousness;
· yellowing of the skin or eyes; or
· unusual fatigue, bleeding, or bruising.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Norco and talk to your doctor if you experience
· constipation;
· dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite;
· dizziness, tiredness, or lightheadedness;
· muscle twitches;
· sweating;
· itching;
· decreased urination; or
· decreased sex drive.
Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Norco is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Norco?
Do not take Norco if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. Dangerous side effects could result.
Norco may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Norco is taken with any of these medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
Other products may also contain acetaminophen, especially over-the-counter pain, fever, cold, and allergy medications. Do not take any other products that contain acetaminophen without first talking to your doctor. Too much acetaminophen can be dangerous.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Norco. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.
Where can I get more information?
Your pharmacist has additional information about Norco written for health professionals that you may read.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. ('Multum') is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist
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You're not alone
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theborg
Board Addict
Reged: 10/20/02
Posts: 349
Loc: Boston
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Are you cheating? I'm sorry to say, that you are. You need to stay clear of all opiods. Even a few codeine pillls will stop the withdrawal. It took me about 4 weeks before I got a good night of sleep, but everyone is different.
Good luck.
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Forget your fears and want no more.
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lincoona
Enthusiast
Reged: 11/24/04
Posts: 221
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I like your taper plan, all but the oxy. Like you said, not enough to get too strung out, so my guess is it's OK. I successfully tapered off from your dosage with a little help from Tramadol, and only use the hydrocodone for severe episodes. Seems to be working so far, but I've heard Tramadol can be habit-forming too.
My main problem wasn't physical addiction, it was psychological. The Tramadol helped there, I feel it gave me the strength to say goodbye to the hydro. Time will tell...
imzchef, a link would have sufficed. And who the he ll pronounces it "hye dreo KOE done"???
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lincoona
Enthusiast
Reged: 11/24/04
Posts: 221
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Oh yeah, howie, I forgot to say congrats! PM me if you want to chat.
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howie
Member
Reged: 09/23/02
Posts: 169
Loc: kansas city
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Thanks for the post. After not getting much sleep it was nice to see a couple of post to read and lincoona I will PM you later.
thanks again.
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hibbs
Old Hand
Reged: 08/22/03
Posts: 438
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This may help!
The Thomas recipe:
For the recipe, You'll need:
1.A Benzodiazepine such as Klonopin, Librium, Ativan or Xanax). Of these, Valium and Klonopin are best suited for tapering since they come in tablet form.
2. Imodium (over the counter, any drug or grocery store).
3. L-Tyrosine (500 mg caps) from the health food store.
4. Strong wide-spectrum mineral supplement with at least 100% RDA of Zinc, Phosphorus, Copper and Magnesium.
5. Vitamin B6 caps.
6. Access to hot baths or a Jacuzzi (or hot showers if that's all that's available).
How to use the recipe:
Begin your detox with regular doses of Valium (or alternate benzo). Start with a dose high enough to produce sleep. Before you use any benzo, make sure you're aware of how often it can be safely taken. Different benzos have different dosing schedules. Taper your Valium dosage down after each day. The goal is to get through day 4, after which the worst WD symptoms will subside. You shouldn't need the Valium after day 4 or 5.
During detox, hit the hot bath or Jacuzzi as often as you need to for muscle aches. Don't underestimate the effectiveness of hot soaks. Spend the entire time, if necessary, in a hot bath. This simple method will alleviate what is for many the worst opiate WD symptom.
Use the Imodium aggressively to stop the runs. Take as much as you need, as often as you need it. Don't take it, however, if you don't need it.
At the end of the fourth day, you should be waking up from the Valium and experiencing the beginnings of the opiate WD malaise. Upon rising (empty stomach), take the L-Tyrosine. Try 2000 mgs, and scale up or down, depending on how you feel. You can take up to 4,000 mgs. Take the L-Tyrosine with B6 to help absorption. Wait about one hour before eating breakfast. The L-Tyrosine will give you a surge of physical and mental energy that will help counteract the malaise. You may continue to take it each morning for as long as it helps. If you find it gives you the "coffee jitters," consider lowering the dosage or discontinuing it altogether. Occasionally, L-Tyrosine can cause the runs. Unlike the runs from opiate WD, however, this effect of L-Tyrosine is mild and normally does not return after the first hour. Lowering the dosage may help.
With breakfast, take the mineral supplement.
As soon as you can force yourself to, get some mild exercise such as walking, cycling, swimming, etc. This will be hard at first, but will make you feel considerably better.
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The blues is the soundtrack to reality...
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lmay769
Member
Reged: 03/14/04
Posts: 148
Loc: beautiful Rocky Mountains
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I think people greatly underestimate the natural things, minerals and vitamins, in the w/d process. I personally did this on my own, knowing nothing about the infamous "Thomas Recipe" at the time. I purchased a book at the local Barnes and Noble and I wish I could remember the name of it because it helped me tremendously and it included a LOT of the things from "Thomas Recipe" purchased from GNC or the like... particularly helpful for me was the L-Tyrosine and B vitamins. In this book there were several different "recipes" for different types of addictions, all natural. I used a benzo in addition, in the smallest amounts possible. I am gonna try to find that book because I think many of you would find it very beneficial if you give it a chance.
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In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me lay an invincible summer. Albert Camus
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howie
Member
Reged: 09/23/02
Posts: 169
Loc: kansas city
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Thanks for posting the diet, I had seen it before but have never managed to get all the things together. I broke this morning at 10am and had to take a half a Norco (5mg). I was getting sick. First time i had ever felt like i was going to throw up. I have had diaraha before and cramps but this felt like the flu. I can tell you it is probably much harder living alone doing this than with someone to support and help you at home.
Thanks for the advice.
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lmay769
Member
Reged: 03/14/04
Posts: 148
Loc: beautiful Rocky Mountains
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I found the book!!!!!
It is called "End Your Addiction Now, The Proven Nutrional Supplement Program That Can Set You Free" Charles Gant, M.D.,Ph.D. and Greg Lewis, Ph.D.
It includes 'Smoking, Alcohol, Antidepressants, Pain Killers, Amphetamines, and other drugs'
copyright 2002
$25.95 = a lot less than you're spending now. hehe
maybe worth a try for some.
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In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me lay an invincible summer. Albert Camus
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howie
Member
Reged: 09/23/02
Posts: 169
Loc: kansas city
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Do you know where you can get the book. Thank you for posting about the book. It is appreciated.
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lmay769
Member
Reged: 03/14/04
Posts: 148
Loc: beautiful Rocky Mountains
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I lived in Chicago at the time and got it at "Books A Million" but I'm sure you could find it a lot of places. Try your library...free...if you can't locate one let me know via pm.
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In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me lay an invincible summer. Albert Camus
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theborg
Board Addict
Reged: 10/20/02
Posts: 349
Loc: Boston
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Quote:
Thanks for posting the diet, I had seen it before but have never managed to get all the things together. I broke this morning at 10am and had to take a half a Norco (5mg). I was getting sick. First time i had ever felt like i was going to throw up. I have had diaraha before and cramps but this felt like the flu. I can tell you it is probably much harder living alone doing this than with someone to support and help you at home.
Thanks for the advice.
I agree. I live alone as well and I think it made it more difficult. I would wake up every morning throwing up. I would take a norco or 2 and then head off to work. If I didn't have the norcos to ramp down with, I would have been out of work for weeks. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions.
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Forget your fears and want no more.
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howie
Member
Reged: 09/23/02
Posts: 169
Loc: kansas city
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I found and bought the book for 8.00 plus 5.00 shipping. It is used but is said to be in very good condition. I checked walmart.com and it was only 16 there but it is out of stock so it must be a fairly popular read.
It is on it's way Monday.
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