I would like some input on a decision I have to make. I have used the 25 microgram Fentaly patch for pain for 8 years. It literally hs saved my life, as my pain was so intense before that I was contemplating suicide. A year or so ago I added Lyrica which has also helped a lot. I am now able to be out of bed for about 5 hours a day. If I boost my meds by adding Darvon to my regimen, I can extend that another 3 or 4 hours, but I have to take a big dose. I can't increase the fentanyl as I have side effects of tiredness and daytime sleepiness. It also make me a little depressed.

My family doctor sent me to a new pain doc to see if he had any ideas for getting better pain control with less side effects and not take so much Darvon. He tried me on methadone as an alternative to fentanyl, but it made me even sleepier. So now he is recommending that I consider a spinal cord stimulater. I am very apprehensive. I would love to get off drugs that make me sleepy and tired, but.... Surgery of any kind carries some risks, and it sounds like you have a lot of precautions with the stimulator, like not bending or twisting and it might be a big hassle. And,,,,,I haven't found any good research studies on how effective it might be for neuropathy -- like what percentage of neuropathy suferrers get significant relief. And... i am afraid that they will make me go off all my pain meds at some point in the process. I am not a drug seeker, but I am very afraid of suffering terrible pain without medication, even for a short time. I don't think any doctor believes how severe my pain is. It is hard for me to believe it, since I look normal.

Here is my question for you guys: What should I do? Ha. See, it's an easy question! Should I be satisfied with the current medication status (for which I am very grateful), or should I try the stimulator? Help!