Jennelle - I have a similar problem. Meds do not work as effectively for me as they would for someone else. I need 8 percocet per day to survive. Most people would be bed ridden with that. I atleast can have a "normal" life. I am never pain free but can do most things, i.e. grocery shop, make beds, laundry, etc. When I had my 4th child, the epidural did not work and I had to be knocked out because I felt it! For oral surgery I needed about 10 shots of novacaine plus the gas! Not everyone understands and, as you said, think you are a drug addict. My sister has MS and has the same problem with meds. We both have the same doctor and he is understanding but when you go to the pharmacy, you see the look they give you and it is very degrading. When I had recent surgery I was very lucky in the recovery room with great nurses who understood. They gave me morphine upon my request and told me to let them know when I needed it. Best of luck, Linda