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DanP · 08-25-2007, 05:23 PM

Daniella - the 'pain patches' Brian was talking about are the Duragesic Patches - the generic form is called Fentanyl Transdermal System and this is what I am using with excellent results.
For 15 years I was in horrific pain and all the usual meds the 'super specialists' RXed simply did not work for me. Neurontin (which never had FDA approval for use in treating Periphearl Neuropathy), Topomax, and all the other anti-seizure drugs the neuros were RXing did nothing for me. Cymbalta and even Lyrica didn't work on my pain. In Jan 92 my PCP suggested we try the Duragesic patch so on 1-9-02 I used my first 50strength Duragesic patch and I noted a fair reduction in pain but knew it was gonna have to be increased so on 4-10-02 we upped it to the 75 strength patch and that was even better. I got along pretty good for a few months but the pain still persisted and on 11-18-02 we started the 100 strength patch - and we were changing these patches every 3 days. My pain had always been constant and at the 7 to 10 level. Someone told me that if it was ever a 10 I would be unconscious - well, I was never unconscious so I conceded it must have only been a 9.5. (never argue with "experts") LoL
Anyway, I remained on that strength until April 24, 2007 at which time we upped the patch to 125 strength changing them every 2 days. We started changing every 2 days about 12-14 months ago because they were just not lasting that exta 24 hours. Since I started on the 100 strength patches that 7 to 9.5 pain has been reduced to a very liveable 2 - 4. I've been at the 2 to 4 level so long now that I can just about ignore it. I am 75½ years old and walk 1-2 miles each day (due to the heat I have been using my wife's stationary bicycle riding 7 to 10 miles each day). And, I still drive my car without incident. The only side effect I have is constipation which I control with OTC meds. I have been using these patches for 5½ years and, for me, they have done a fantastic job. The fentenyl in these patches are much stronger than morphine (ask your pharmacist) but the medication is absorbed slowly thru your skin into your blood stream....and I never feel any 'high' or drugged feelings. I function normally and live my life as best as a 75 year old can. I am dependent on these patches but am NOT addicted - repeat, NOT addicted!!! There is a huge difference in the two and if anyone doesn't know that difference then I urge you to research the subject.
I am prepared to go to 150, 175, or 200 strengths should it ever become necessary and as long as I can function normally. Pain control and the ability to function normally is the essence of pain management and for 5+ years I have achieved that and I pray this will continue till the end of my days.