I read on an article and people in chronic pain things like coffee,sugar,caffeine,soda,artificial sweetners can increase pain. I have actually cut down on my amount but see no difference. For me without a little at least I can't go to the bathroom for sure and I get a head ache. I don't need any more pain so I just try to be moderate about it. It may be a fluke that with the higher dose or maybe it is not the right med now for you. I have been fine on lower doses and then increase a med and I have a hard time. Can you talk to your doc?