Information on opiates - many choices

Posted , 5 users are following.

This video explains many opiate options for treating RLS.  I did not know there were so many options.  I live in Florida, where opiate deaths are a crisis situation, and nationwide there is a movement to unite doctors to cut down on prescriptions for opiates.  Since codeine works for me - and I use it in moderation - I hope that there will be understanding for RLS patients.  I also learned from this video that RLS is classified as a pain disorder, even though many do not experience pain.

Has anyone tried any of the opiate treatements?  I'd be interested to know.

0 likes, 8 replies

8 Replies

  • Posted

    I have suffered with RLS since 1996. Tried all sorts from acupuncture, herbal remedies, tonic water and medications from my doctor. I have found the only thing to work is a version of codeine (dihydrocodeine) I only take 2 tablets a day usually 1 about 6pm when symptoms are at their worst and 1 before bed.  I try to avoid taking  anymore than 2 a day. If I get RLS in the daytime I go for a walk or try to do something to take my mind of it. Codein is the only thing that has worked for me. Have been taking for about 5 years now.
    • Posted

      Thanks for the info.  You can find the video by adding this extension to you tube - for some reason we are not allowed to post links

      /watch?v=iCNI_UCj7SI

  • Posted

    I take methadone, it is the only thing that has helped me. I have had RLS since I was a young child and I'll be 50 in October! I can remember people telling me it was growing pains but looking back...it was definitely RLS! The past ten years it has been very severe, in my arms and legs 24/7 until I started methadone.
  • Posted

    Where do you view the video. There doesn't seem to be a link.
    • Posted

      Add this extension to you tube

      /watch?v=iCNI_UCj7SI

    • Posted

      Google...RLS, Dr. Earley and methadone, John Hopkins hospital
  • Posted

     I have developed pain with my rls over the last several years.  At times, mild at times, very severe.  I use Robaxin (muscle relaxant), Requip (as low a dosage as possible) and Norco which is an opiate.  Without the Norco I would be in a really bad way.  I too try and limit the intake to 1 or 2  pills.  I even break them in half if the pain is just beginning and I'm trying to catch it before it worsens.  I don't know what I would do if I was unable to use my Norco.  Tylenol/Codein used to work but doesn't seem to any more with taking a large dose which I prefer not to do.  Painting everyone with pain conditions as slackers not needing  pain meds unless it's cancer is short sighted and just wrong.  A friend sufferes from neuropathy and I have my rls pain and we agree, without the meds to control the pain a miserable condition would be unbearable.
    • Posted

      I totally agree! My family, mainly my sister, made me feel like Iwas an awful person for taking methadone for my RLS. She referred to me as a drug addict. As did so many uneducated peoplethat knew nothing about how debilitating RKS can be. It's a shame more doctor's aren't educated about RLS!

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