Posted by Noah on March 30, 2001, at 15:28:14
In reply to Re: codeine relieves depression, posted by Lizaboo on March 27, 2001, at 6:29:26
As a long-time addict of prescription painkillers, and also having been on anti-depressants and the like for over 13 years, I am a little scared by what I'm hearing you say. The first thing an addict of any kind will start to do is make justifications for taking whatever he/she is taking. You'll start to think that the doctor doesn't know anything, and next thing you know, you'll be playing all the doctors in town and maybe even writing prescriptions yourself. When you go that far, or start stealing from friends/relatives, you're in trouble. Sure, opiates (codeine, lortab, percodan, etc.) may make you feel good. There are a certain percentage of people who are "natural addicts" and really like the feeling of euphoria caused by these drugs. More often, they just cause drowsiness, upset stomach, and many other nasty side effects. If they make you feel good, I would AVOID THEM LIKE THE PLAGUE. I've been through years of counseling, rehab, a lost marriage, and a life of deception because of painkillers. I've done every imaginable thing to get them. They can destroy your life. I know these are strong words, and I'm just talking to anybody out there who might be getting into this stuff. It is definitely not an answer to treating depression. In the long run, it will cause you more depression than anything. Sorry to get preachy, but stay the hell away from painkillers unless you REALLY need them. I just had back surgery and quit pills after one week, which is short for me, but I have had terrible urges for them. It helps to know what your weaknesses are and admit it.
poster:Noah
thread:1897
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010327/msgs/58102.html