I am currently presscirbed 240 Norco (10/325) + 10 EA Fentanyl 50mcg Patches each month. I have gained a tolerance to both, thus resulting in substantially less pain relief. I take these for chronic back pain due to an injury. What are some recommendations to ask my Physician for (if any) that may help alleviate or eliminate the pain & help gain quality of life? I was thinking of asking for oxycodone (roxycodone?? is there a difference) instead of norco, but how many tablets would likely be prescribed and how often? As well, what would be different? Is it stronger? He said he would more than likely bump me to the 75mcg Fentanyl patch next month, which may work, but I find that they only give me a bit more than 48 hours of relief, opposed to the 72 hour relief that it is intended to provide. My BASIC ?'s here are what are the equivalent or stronger anelgesic pain meds I should consider with my Dr. next visit? I've read many forums on here and there are too many conflicting answers. I can't live in this amount of pain and function in my job properly (I am a chef; very physically demanding job) and need am seeking a swift resolution, though I realize trial and error is a part of the process. I very much appreciate your time and look forward to your response & potentially continuing the dialogue.
Scott