Expert: Dr. Ravindra Bhaskar Ghooi - 3/28/2005

Question
Dear Dr. Ghooi,
I have been taking Ultram and Hydrocodone prn for back/arthritic pain.  My new doctor prescribed Voltaren but said nothing about discontinuing the use of the ones I have been using.
Is it safe to take these drugs together?  I do NOT take Ultram and Hydrocodone together on the same day.  So, while taking Voltaren twice a day as he has directed, can I still take Ultram or Hydrocodone if my back is bad.
Thanks for your time.

Answer
ED,
Ultram and hydrocodone are narcotics and Voltaren is a non-narcotic, your doctor is probably trying to switch from a narcotic to a non-narcotic. I would first ask the doctor what he plans, but if the pain gets bad taking an ultram or a hydrocodone tab is not really going to be hurting.
Regards
Ravi Ghooi