Vicodin and medication

I have taken Vicodin for 12 years now after open heart surgery. My chest bone did not heal right and in 2002 had injuries to both my knees. My doctor took me off of the medication last week since all my heart medications that I take along with this is damaging my liver. I will tell all who is reading this that I have been taking 750mg 5 times a day for 12 years and I am having a tremendous amount of trouble coming off of this drug. I have not slept in days and all you can do is think about the drug. Diarrhea is a another problem with not taking it and major cold spells and sweating. Anyone that can avoid this I hope you do. Because of the damage to my liver I had no choice but to stop cold turkey, I hope and pray that these symptoms go away soon......

I have taken the generic Vicodin, Hydrocodone, for 8 years for chronic pack pain. Along with the Hydrocodone, I take Soma, a muscle relaxant. I take them together, usually 3 to 5 of both a day. I know this sounds like a lot, but after 8 years, I am so used to it that it has become part of my every day. I know I am addicted to both because when I run out, I can hardly wait to get my refill. I have pain and I get irritable. My doctor checks my liver regularly and I have had no other side effects. I am surprised to read about those with constipation as it gives me diarrhea. I also sleep well on the medication. Mine is an unusual case as I have had surgery (Thoracic) and have been under both a neurologist and cardiovascular doctor's care the entire time. I pray that anyone taking this medication learns how to use it and not abuse it. It truly helps you to live a normal life, however it can become all-encompassing if you take too much.

I've been prescribed Vicodin for chronic back and muscle pain. I 've been taking this medication for over a year. I experience NO side effects and although I am probably addicted,one tablet (10mg) daily allows me to live a normal life and carry on my normal activities. I hope that this drug is not causing damage t my liver or kidneys or any other organs. I dread the day that the Doctor takes me of the medication and then not only will I have pain (unbearable at times) I will also have to endure the withdrawls.
I read where people become constipated. I have to ask myself, could it be their diets or other medications causing this problem. For now, I am satisified with the results that I am getting and can only hope that the medication continues to work for me. D.O. Kentucky March 23,2005