Posted by Missy Har (63.20.108.200) on June 25, 2001 at 20:32:41:
In Reply to: Need combination with hydrocodn 650 ? posted by Shane C. on June 25, 2001 at 11:15:11:
I personally know a young man (30) who had a back injury. He was treated at an emergency room initially, then told to find a orthopedic doc, which he did. After the initial screening and X rays, he was prescribed oxycontin and Vicodin for pain. From there (after being on this med for a month) he went to another doc, complained about the pain, and without even consulting with his previous doc OR seeing any x-rays, this doc prescribed the same two meds. This went on for three years. An office visit once per mo. at $90.00 to get a refill. The last time he needed a refill, he didn't have the $90.00 for the office visit, so the doc dropped him. He then went into withdrawal and could have died, but found a pain management physician who helped him for the moment.
Today this young man is going to a methedone clinic, trying to get off his addiction. He's been going for three weeks and is still on the minimum dose for stabilization. He will be going for at least one year, if not longer. Time will tell whether or not he is successful. Most addicts are on meth. for life once they start.
Do I blame the doc? You bet your sweet arse I do!
They know how short a time it takes to become addicted. And to make $90.00 a month just to refill, with no exam?? Please.
I know of at least 3 other young people who are sending friends and relatives to a doc with a phoney complaint for the pain meds, and filling the prescriptions for him. This is so sad. So many are hooked on pain med.
Be careful. Addiction to pain meds can be very dangereous. Sudden withdrawal can cause seizures and even death.