Hydrocodone

I had Lap RNy on Dec 7th and has a leak and alomost died and was in the hospital for 6 weeks. Since my surgery I have had to get iron infusions because my iron levels were so low. I experienced alot of pain with the iron infusions....muscle pain....bone pain.....I have lost 170 pounds since the surgery and Im down to 210 and feel better but I have been getting horrible back spasms and have terrible back pain. The doctor has me on Norco 10/325 1 pill every 5 hours. I have been doing this for 3 months. I would like to get off but I know I will have withdrawl. Any suggestions to lesson the withdrawl? Does Xanax help?

John,  Hi, I don't know much about hydrocodone, but do know about xanax.  

What is Xanax?

Xanax is in a group of drugs called benzodiazepines (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens). Xanax affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.  Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression.  Xanax may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. Also... Alprazolam is habit forming. You can become physically and 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 alprazolam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose. With that, go here.... Xanax Addiction Facts About Addiction to Xanax Good luck! Liz

Since you have been taking it for so long, I would say you need to ween yourself off of it?  Do it slow and easy.  Do you think you can do this alone, or will you need the help of a doctor?  You should talk to your doctor in either case, but I mean either talk to your doctor, and see if you can do it yourself at home over a two or three week period, or check yourself into a detox clinic and do it UNDER medical supervision. I have weened myself off a few drugs in the past year. It is pretty painless and easy if you can handle it.  But I always did it AFTER I talked to my doctor about it, and how to do it.

I agree with Cynthia.  Medical supervision for withdrawal from a narcotic is so important.  I would not recommend Xanax, because that is also addictive.  Talk to the prescribing doctor about your addiction to the meds and ask for help. God bless. Trish

spoke with doctor and he is giving me a very slow taper schedule and a small amount of xanax. thank you

I have used Norco for disk problems in my back a few times.  I simply stopped taking it and although there were 5 or 6 sleepless, anxious nights after quitting, everything was normal afterward.  Just allow yourself some time to twist and turn in bed for a few nights and you will be fine.