I searched the forums and the last topic about this i could find was from april 2013...i really didn't want to revive a dead thread, so here we are.....
I have been completely pain free for almost two months now. I am still taking the full compliment of my meds. I've noticed that i'm no longer watching the clock to make sure the next dose is taken on time...and honestly have missed a few doses with no ill effects. (other than heart palpitations when i realized i missed it..!!!)
My question is this...at what point do (would) you start reducing the meds? Do i need specific instructions from the Dr.? Or can i just experiment slowly on my own? I know i shouldn't just stop taking them, but is it realistic to try reducing them while i'm pain free?
My other question is...if i am able to get the meds way down (or completely off)..when the pain comes back, will i have to go through adjusting to the side effects again, or will my body "remember"?
*shrugs* i just feel like i shouldn't be taking all these drugs if i'm not hurting. And i wonder about building up a tolerance to them, and if it's better to go up and down with them..or just stay with the normal dose.
I know, no one here can give real medical advice...but i would really like to hear your suggestions, ideas, or your experiences.
Mistee, YEY 2 months pain free!!! That’s awesome. So happy for you!
based on my own experience, always discuss with your doctor first when considering an increase/decrease in meds. They * know* how each med works alone as well as in conjunction with other meds. It’s a process that needs the expertise/advice from your doctor.
( my neuro writes on a paper an easy to follow reduction/ increase plan. For example he’ll write : Week one: reduce 30mg med XYZ increase med ABC by 250mg) some meds can be decreased rapidly, others not…
My Neuro always advised a reduction in meds after at least 6 weeks NO Pain. (And then gave me the written plan ) because as you mentioned he felt it was better to reduce or get off completely to maintain efficacy ( should the pain increase) as well to minimize the long term effects of these horrid anti-convulsants.
You’ll know by how you feel, whether you should continue to decrease…
As to Question #2, again in my experience ( I’ve way reduced or come completely off my meds 3 times in 12 years)
I re-experience the side effects when starting back up…until the drug builds up in my system…
If you’ve only removed 1-2 doses, side effects will be minimal. BUT again we’re all different and react differently.
Make an appt. and talk to your doctor about all of this. Trust me you’ll know what to do as you do it. You might only be able to reduce a little or by the grace of a higher power get off the meds all together and be in full remission!!! ( for a very long time). : )
In my opinion I’d rather attempt to minimize my meds than stay on them when I might not need to be on as high a dose or at all…
Good luck, let me know how it all goes…positive thoughts to you!
(( hugs )) Mimi