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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Regular Body Pains, Depression Post Taking Methadone For Getting Off Drinking And Codeine Addiction. How Can I Get Over This?

I am a 49yr old lady who is overcoming a drink problem and who was addicted to codeine . I was put on methadone as this was a safe option for me at the time. I am in pain all day every day in my body as the methadone is now not working. Its a long complicated story.... I am also very depressed and feel I am at my wits end with feeling the way I do any advice
Wed, 4 Jul 2012
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Psychiatrist 's  Response
Hi and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your question...

I understand that you are going through a tough time battling your substance abuse problems as well as your depression. It is appreciable that you have managed to stay off the codeine and are currently taking efforts to overcome your drinking problem also.

As most of the substances of abuse (alcohol, opioids, etc.) can cause mood alterations and other psychological symptoms, it is likely that your depression could be related to the substance withdrawal (from alcohol or codeine). This is usually transient, but if you are having severe and prolonged symptoms, then you need specific treatment. As regards your body pains, it could be a symptom of withdrawal from opiods, which in turn could be because you have developed tolerance to methadone.

I hope that you are taking continued professional help with quitting these substances. If not, I would suggest that you consult a psychiatrist who would be able to help you handle your current problems better. Also, you need to have an assessment to decide on how best to manage your depression. Different options are available like medication, psychological therapies, etc. So, please do not lose your motivation, try to stay positive and do not hesitate to seek help.

All the best.

- Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar
Consultant Psychiatrist
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Regular Body Pains, Depression Post Taking Methadone For Getting Off Drinking And Codeine Addiction. How Can I Get Over This?

Hi and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your question... I understand that you are going through a tough time battling your substance abuse problems as well as your depression. It is appreciable that you have managed to stay off the codeine and are currently taking efforts to overcome your drinking problem also. As most of the substances of abuse (alcohol, opioids, etc.) can cause mood alterations and other psychological symptoms, it is likely that your depression could be related to the substance withdrawal (from alcohol or codeine). This is usually transient, but if you are having severe and prolonged symptoms, then you need specific treatment. As regards your body pains, it could be a symptom of withdrawal from opiods, which in turn could be because you have developed tolerance to methadone. I hope that you are taking continued professional help with quitting these substances. If not, I would suggest that you consult a psychiatrist who would be able to help you handle your current problems better. Also, you need to have an assessment to decide on how best to manage your depression. Different options are available like medication, psychological therapies, etc. So, please do not lose your motivation, try to stay positive and do not hesitate to seek help. All the best. - Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar Consultant Psychiatrist