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RSD Alert is a voluntary organisation publishing RSD/CRPS information, mostly provided by our readers. Every approved medical drug works for some people but not for others. Don't be alarmed by what you read. If in doubt consult your medical advisor.
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Drugs

Drugs on RSD Alert

(notes and comments from correspondents)

Methadone
Description
 A powerful narcotic analgesic used for pain relief (and also used in the tratment of heroin addicts). Taken orally in tablet of liquid form, or by injection.
Side effects

(Don't be unduly alarmed. All drugs cause side effects for some patients)

 Constipation, drowsiness, dizziness. High usage may have a depressive effect on breathing.
Warnings

(These are standard cautions but may not be applicable to your case)

 Not to be used for patients with head injury or liver damage. Caution advised when administered to asthmatics, children, people with impaired liver of kidney function, the elderly or anyone with a history of drug abuse.

Comments

My husband takes Methadone and Zanaflex (2 hours apart) per his Dr instructions. Withing 2 hours of taking the Zanaflex, he is unable to function... it even knocks him out for up to 5 hours... not a good drug combination. Lyn - Jacksonville, Florida

I have had more trials of drug therapy which has resulted in Methadone as my pain reliever (although not perfect - better than the others). Ginnie - Canada

I have been taking Methadone for a little over a year, give or take a month or two. I was taking up to 80 mg a day. Thankfully, I am now down to around 30-40 mg a day. It doesn't work as well sometimes as I wish it did, but it is better than taking an overdose of Lortab 10/500 up to 20 tabs daily. Codeine doesn't work at all anymore. Unfortunately, even Methadone doesn't work as well as it used to and my doctor doesn't want to prescribe a different medication. With the combination of meds I take, my pain level averages around 4, varying from 2 on a great day to 8 or 9 other days. I do not care for this condition and wouldn't extend to my enemies this type of torture. I also take Elavil, Neurontin, Zoloft and Xanax and use the Lidoderm patch. This is too many and very costly even with insurance. I feel like I am trapped with having to take these meds and my drawer looks like a pharmacy. Allison - San Diego, California

The side effects of methadone are only tolerable with a strong "laxative". The results are similar to nitrous oxide; always very aware, sometimes want to cry. Name supplied - Dallas, Texas, USA

I have taken methadone for two weeks. Did not help the pain much. But the side effects were very bad. Dizzy, unstable, lightheaded, Could not take any heat. And our temperatures now are high about 97.
Could not go outside; felt like I was burning up. So now it's time to try other things. Tim - Piketon, Ohio, USA
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