AboutTracy Expertise I am not a doctor but I have spent the last 11 years in chronic pain from numerous lumbar back surgeries and L4/L5 fusion surgery. I can answer questions about most treatments, traditional and alternative therapies. I can answer questions about the many pain medicines used to treat chronic pain. I can also answer questions and give practical advice on all aspects of living with chronic pain. I am NOT a doctor and I have not had any formal medical training so I CANNOT GIVE YOU A DIAGNOSIS!
Experience I have spent the last 11 years in chronic pain due to a lower back injury. I have had just about every treatment, therapy and alternative treatment, including massage therapy, acupuncture and rekki. I have been to more pain specialists than I can remember and I have been put on almost every pain medicine available.
Organizations I have been involved with the American pain foundation for about 7 years. I am also an active participant on several chronic pain message boards. I am a member of several local chronic pain support groups. I also volunteer at a local organization that helps people that are disabled and in chronic pain find the information, resources and support needed to cope with living with disability and chronic pain.
Education/Credentials I have not had any formal medical education but I have done extensive research on available treatments and therapies. I have also done extensive research on the different pain medicines used in the treatment of pain.
Question Hello. I am searching for clarification on safe pain management during pregnancy. I have suffered chronic back pain for about 7 years now due to deg disc disease and spinal stenosis. I have not conceived yet, but we are currently trying. For the past several years I have been on Lyrica, Topomax, Lidoderm patches and Hydrocodone. I am off of the Lyrica and Topomax but still continue to take Hydrocodone and use the Lidoderm patches. We were told these are safe during pregnancy but to be prepared the newborn may be more cranky the first few days from the hydrocodone. I have been looking for information to substantiate this but all I have found is info on pain management during labor. Can you please clarify if it is safe to continue the hydrocodone while pregnant or is there something that is. Also, the Lyrica & Topomax were stopped 2 months ago, is it out of my system or should I wait longer.
Answer Hi Bobbie,
I saw your question in our question pool and thought I could help.
I have always heard that when stopping medications before becoming pregnant it is best to wait at least 3-4 months to make sure all lingering traces of the drug are out of the system.
As far as the Hydrocodone during pregnancy, you really should talk to a OB/GYN or a pediatrician. Hydrocodone is a narcotic, taking it consistently during pregnancy will cause your baby to be born physically addicted to the hydrocodone. Several hours after birth the baby will start going into withdraw from the drug. The doctor may decide to give the baby hydrocodone or something similar and then wean the baby off of it over a period of time. I am not sure what the effects hydrocodone would have on development during pregnancy or on the infant after birth. It may or may not be similar to other narcotic drugs. Be sure to talk all this over carefully with a pediatrician before you get pregnant. A pain specialist might also be able to help come up with an alternative medication you can take during pregnancy.
I wish you the best
Tracy
