I recently switched from fentanyl patches to a new? Drug named Exalgo. Its a long acting hydromorphone pill. Longer than OxyContin but not as long as the fentanyl patches. One dose lasts 24 hours. Being a new drug you may have problems with insurance coverage but it doesn't have the stigma that OxyContin does. This is my first time on hydromorphone and we have not fount the correct dose yet so I can't reall say how it's working, additionally, I seem to be have some pretty severe anxiety issues that are new since I started it. I had a lot of the same issues with the fentanyl patches.
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Originally Posted by Broken_Medic
Hey all,
I have been on the Fentanyl patch for about 2 years now. Started out at 75mcg./hr. and switched to 50 about a year ago. I have adjusted my life to this patch. Adjusted, meaning found a way to put up with it. My main problem with the patch is that you can't really "enjoy" a shower with it on. In fact any activity where you break a sweat or get an elevated body temp, the patch's med release is affected. Basically, I can't work out with the patch. I am about 50 lbs overweight and want to get rid of the fat. Exercise is warranted. However, the patch just won't work well with a "workout." Granted, with my back injuries my workout won't be anything like it used to be, but I need to start getting serious.
A historical note.....I was placed on the patch because our insurance changed and the new company did not supply my then drug, Oxycontin. So, the Fentanyl patch was my only suitable choice given to me. So.....my main purpose in this thread is to see if folks have gotten off the patch and found a replacement that isn't trans-dermal based. Ya know, I just had a thought. We have moved out to the east coast and again changed insurance company. I hate to say it....(mainly because of it's reputation) but is oxy do-able with a more active lifestyle? I also take Norco, Tramadol, and Flexeril. But have found I have needed a more "potent" main drug to take up the main pain, and the others to assist as needed. And as all of us...I would eventually like to drop some of these. But, for now....not so much. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!
Paul
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