I was a serious IV opiate user for a very long time and I have not used any for over a year and have gotten my life back on track. I just found out I need my wisdom teeth removed and the doctor wants to give me demerol (a synthetic opiate) in the beginning of the surgery and vicodin afterwards. I have called around and every doctor uses opiates both before and afterwards for the pain. I have heard of using Ibuprofen 800mg for the pain after but that it doesn't work well and I will be in agonizing pain. I have not heard of ANY alternatives for the opiate at the beginning. I was hoping that you guys would have some experience with this and could offer me suggestions because I am scared as hell of the idea of being in horrible pain but there is no way I am throwing away over a year of clean time. Please help. Thanks
Welcome. The first thing to do is to inform you're doctor about your addiction and your concerns. He/she may be able to work with you on this. I have no direct experience so I hope someone else does.
Hi, I had surgery this year and had to take pain medication. I used meth and never liked downers at all but of course I was aware that it is a mind altering substance and my disease doesn't know the difference.
I had someone dispense the meds to me, we wrote down the times and I followed as prescribed. I took enough so that I wasn't in pain and did not feel high. It is ok to take medication especially for something painful like wisdom teeth!
My suggestion would be to stay in contact with your sponsor throughout and pray pray pray. Keep up with recovery activity. Since you will be resting at home; read literature or do step work. This is what I did. I actually started a mini book study with myself while recovering from surgery. This kept my mind on God. You will likely only need the meds for the first couple days and then ibuprofen should do it. I've had a ton of dental work and 800's actually work better for me than vicodin...but that's just me. Don't be afraid, have faith that you can get through this with the support of your HP and NA.
I had many teeth all pulled at once . All of my wisdom teeth at once , I was put under with a shot that knocked me out when I woke up I was in recovery room all done no pain, no remembering what happened . I 've always bee terrified of the dentist .
