Expert: Peter L. - 12/5/2011

Question
I've been taking Percocet 10/325 for about 4 months. It was supposed to be 4 times a day but I ended up taking 2 immediately upon awaking and popping them every 3 hours - only up to 6 a day. And my Rx has run dry 2 weeks early. I don't want to go back on but am scared now that I've run out. I'm cold and sweaty, stomach upset, shaky, but am determined to get through it alone. How many days can I expect to be like this? Should I take a couple Tylenol to fake my body out? Should I increase my water intake? Please help.

Answer
Hi Peggy,

You are going through classic opioid withdrawal symptoms.  You can go it alone, and will eventually see the symptoms subside; hard to say how many days that will be. However, you may not see a decline in cravings even when the physical symptoms decrease, and may experience uneasiness and anxiety for some time longer.  

I'm concerned about your overuse of your prescription.  Have you thought about what's happening here?  This could lead you to an even more serious dependence on opioid pain medication, one that will steadily grow worse over time.

I can't advise you as to how to get through the withdrawal you're experiencing, as I'm not a medical practitioner.  I would inform your doctor of your symptoms.  Also, please think about what might be your growing dependence on these drugs.

Thanks for your question,
Peter