Expert: Veronica C. Yost - 4/9/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi- my son was prescribed oxycontin 3 years ago for back pain from an auto accident- and to make a long story short- It has been 3 years of hell- and now he is a heroin addict- He was ADHD as a kid- meds worked like a miracle until he stopped as a senior in high school-(they made him irritable)- his psych said it was probably due to bipolar- but he has never consistently taken meds for it- He has no stop button (self control)- and has always done things to the max- (even as a little kid had to fill a glass to the brim) but now- quiote serious - He says he wants it to stop- (& that he is weaning down)- but is too afraid to go through the withdrawals and do treatment-  Don't know what to do anymore - I've tried so many things that have failed- He has a beautiful 2 year old daughter and it's so heartwrenching to see her grow up w/o her "real" dad- I know he loves her but obviously loves the drugs the most- (He doesn't live with his daughter or ex-girfriend- they live w/me) He is on probabtion still for a DUI from 2 1/2  years ago- have considered talking to her about his addiction (he's a great schmooser) and possibly mandated treatment? Good/bad idea? I'm so afraid that I'll get that call (already had a flight for life with a drug interaction)--Thank you in advance for any suggestions/help-- Jean

ANSWER: Hi Jean,
 You can talk to his PO but it may need to be court mandated for the drug test.  But it may also already be in the orders and left to the discretion of the PO whether or not to test.  It will be very hard to come off of opiates and the side effects can be severe.  There is the risk of stroke, heart attack and higher risk of failure.  The meds provided in rehab help eliminate some withdrawal symptoms.
 If he has no insurance contact local health and human service for suggestions of places to get him the help he needs.  We should never tapper a drug without medical supervision.  You can also start with the family doctor.  Good luck and keep smiling!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi-
Thanks for responding- The PO already does do the drug testing, but it is ok to come back with opiates because they are already prescribed- I really think he must have residential treatment at least to break the cycle- but have not as yet had any success- He is so not himself and has absolulty no sense anymore - just lives for the drug- It has totally consumed his life- I don't know how long he will make it w/o getting him away somewhere- I did talk to the PO and she is checking to see what they can do- ??
Thanks again- any ideas are greatly appreciated-
Thank you,
Jean

Answer
No problem and good luck.  I have resigned from all experts due to a major health issue that has come up.  One more to add to the list of crack induced illnesses I have.  Play ya' pay:)  I wish the best for you and just keep asking people, everyone and open that phone book!  If it says drug...call.  Oh and she can PO ask the Judge to have him tested for specific opiates not pain killers and such.  They do a general screening but they should notice the level of opiate is higher than that which is prescribed.  Push them.  Call everyday until they are sick of hearing from you and if they don't help get a supervisor or contact the judge.
Yes we addicts are difficult and don't love or want anything but drugs.  The unfortunate part is all the people that love us, we take them down with us.  Just remember it isn't you, it's him.
If you'd like you can email me at Rocklover@mail.com  otherwise good luck.