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Suggest Treatment For Withdrawal Symptoms Of Methadone

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Posted on Sat, 21 Jan 2017
Question: I have been taking methadone 10+ yrs, prescribed after 2n back surgery by neurologist. My dosage has been reduced and I was taking 5 mg 2 x a day, then only once a day. I', no longer taking it. My NP gave me a RX for 10, told me to take one a day for 5 days, then one every other day for five days. I have been feelin so bad, terrible diarrhea. This has been going on for a couple of weeks. How much longer must I go thru this?



















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Answered by Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh (53 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Please see a physician knowledgeable in tapering more slowly.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

As you have been on this drug for so many years, I think a slower taper would be needed so that you don't suffer withdrawal symptoms, as you are having (diarrhea, etc).

A nurse practitioner may not have enough knowledge about how to do this and work with you so that you don't get pronounced withdrawal symptoms. In most states, an NP is required to work under the supervision of a medical doctor. Consider seeing the medical doctor at this point, or asking the nurse practitioner to consult with a pain management physician specialist for advise on appropriate tapering of methadone.

We are not allowed to prescribe medication on this site, but given that you are having symptoms, I can tell you that I think your medication isn't being tapered slowly enough, and every other day dosing may be confusing to your system.

I hope this information helps.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 3134 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Withdrawal Symptoms Of Methadone

Brief Answer: Please see a physician knowledgeable in tapering more slowly. Detailed Answer: Hello, As you have been on this drug for so many years, I think a slower taper would be needed so that you don't suffer withdrawal symptoms, as you are having (diarrhea, etc). A nurse practitioner may not have enough knowledge about how to do this and work with you so that you don't get pronounced withdrawal symptoms. In most states, an NP is required to work under the supervision of a medical doctor. Consider seeing the medical doctor at this point, or asking the nurse practitioner to consult with a pain management physician specialist for advise on appropriate tapering of methadone. We are not allowed to prescribe medication on this site, but given that you are having symptoms, I can tell you that I think your medication isn't being tapered slowly enough, and every other day dosing may be confusing to your system. I hope this information helps.