Hi,
If you have been taking OxyContin and Percocet regularly for two months, it is recommended that you gradually taper off these medications rather than stopping them abruptly. Suddenly stopping these medications can cause
withdrawal symptoms such as muscle aches,
restlessness, insomnia, diarrhea, and anxiety.
Here are some tips for tapering off OxyContin and Percocet:
* Consult your doctor: Before making any changes to your medication regimen, talk to your doctor. They can advise you on how to taper off the medications and monitor you for any withdrawal symptoms or other issues.
* Gradually reduce the dose: Your doctor may recommend gradually reducing the dose of OxyContin and Percocet over several weeks. This will help your body adjust to the lower levels of medication and reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
* Follow a tapering schedule: Your doctor may provide you with a schedule for gradually reducing your medication dose. It is important to follow this schedule carefully and not make any changes without consulting your doctor.
* Manage withdrawal symptoms: If you experience withdrawal symptoms during the tapering process, your doctor may recommend medications or other strategies to manage these symptoms.
* Consider alternative therapies: If you are looking for alternative therapies to manage your
chronic pain, talk to your doctor about non-medication options such as
physical therapy, massage, or
acupuncture.
It is not uncommon to experience pain in other parts of your body while taking opioids for chronic pain. This phenomenon is known as opioid-induced
hyperalgesia and occurs when long-term use of opioids increases pain sensitivity in the body. If you are experiencing increased pain or other side effects while taking opioids, talk to your doctor about other treatment options.
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Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician