Opiate Addiction | The Signs

The symptoms of opioid addiction can hide in plain sight, especially if you don't understand the behavior or what it means. In this interview, double board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Domenick Sportelli and MedCircle host Kyle Kittleson ensure you don't miss these signs of opioid addiction.
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00:00 Intro
00:43 Physical signs
01:07 Psychomotor retardation
01:45 Heroin nod
02:27 Pupil constriction
03:26 Dry mouth
04:05 Malnutrition
04:24 Behavioral signs
04:31 Isolation / secretive behavior
04:55 Major irritability
05:30 Frequent and sudden bathroom runs
05:40 Frequent sniffling & yawning
06:02 Desperation
07:10 How to effectively confront an addict
08:29 Don't place blame
08:44 The best time to address the issue
09:04 Use the word "I" more than "you"
09:32 Listen, don't lecture
09:55 Clearly communicate your support
10:34 The role of motivational interviewing
12:08 What to watch next & how to watch more
#OpioidCrisis #Addiction #MentalHealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #opioid #opioids

[@MedCircle]

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[@Drummr88]

I get tired of being treated like a drug addict because I happen to benefit tremendously from pain medicine. We need to remember, that while many people do abuse opioids, there are many of us that genuinely benefit from them. But I have to applaud this Doctor. Idon't agree with everything he says, but he seems like a genuinely caring, compassionate person.

[@Axispaw1]

DITTO! I have been a Dihydrocodeine user for over 25 years. Unfortunately, I was born with Idiopathic Pain, ie no one knows the cause even after several years of tests and the only painkiller that works for me is dihydrocodeine. I've tried several others that did nothing. This also means I have accepted that I'll likely be on these for the rest of my life, which I'm totally fine with since the alternative is daily pain. And unlike all these videos I always weirdly seem to have recommended to me I never have any of these issues. I don't have the nod, I don't hide the fact I use pain meds, I'm not slow on them, in fact I seem to find I have more energy with them, and even after 25 years my experience with the painkillers has not changed. People often say to me "oh is that not because you're addicted now?" which aside from annoying the hell out of me is untrue; the issues and pain I take the painkillers for I had well before I started, and being energetic on them wasn't a result of becoming addicted since I vividly recall the first time taking them and going for a run because I was so full of energy. These videos are all well and good but I think they mostly apply to addicts of much much stronger opioids such as heroin, morphine etc.

[@janellee250]

I’m also a chronic pain patient on an opiate pain management plan and after a couple years there’s no way I will believe anyone who says that the opiates are still helping at the same dose. So then you’re left with being medically addicted to a drug that no longer helps the pain because of tolerance in addition to completely altering your quality of life and that’s why I’m choosing to taper off of them.

[@rogeh5687]

If you have ADHD then the dopamine does the opposite effect of making you nod off when the drug is first taken. The biggest telltale sign that no one picked up with me is how I suddenly had more energy, was more talkative, made plans with people I never would if I wasn’t using, helping around the house more. Normally I procrastinated, was slow etc

[@selenaquiles1]

Yep, same thing with me

[@RobotronSage]

@@selenaquiles1 Yeah i think opiods have a huge medicinal use case it's just also a high risk of abuse

[@elenichristoforou7752]

​@@RobotronSageEXACTLY

[@realleon2328]

@@RobotronSage they have incredible medicinal use but beyond the high risk of abuse they also do a lot of damage to your body, specifically your liver, so in the spirit of doing no harm, they're generally used more freely the closer someone is to death

[@raptorscott49]

Yea. This dude is full of crap. People that have an addiction don't "move in slow motion". Lol. And you gain weight not lose it. Your metabolism slows down and you crave sweets and processed foods. Geez.

[@ryansheskey276]

I always thought that with my depression, the fact that heroin gave me energy, and confidence, and motivation was because it made me happy, and when youre truly happy, you feel that way. Which is the scariest thing to me.

[@johnsadler3601]

The worst thing to go through. You want out but it seems so far away. In reality it isn’t. If I can do it anyone can. Trust me !

[@leahpookie7237]

I can't believe how accurate this is. I lived with my mom who was addicted to opiods (withdrawal and all). I was going down the same road as her at 17, luckily we both aren't in the same situation anymore. I'm rooting for my mom's recovering and understand addicts stumble.

[@MedCircle]

Thanks for sharing your story - you got this.

[@jessie330]

Your amazing !! For seeing your mum and her addiction as seperate things because they are, your mum may be an addict but she has or had an addiction. Xx

[@frostice6255]

And this is exactly the problem with some psychiatrists, he most likely never experienced an opiate (lets say oxycodone) high, oxy makes me so energetic and talkative and just outgoing (atleast in lower doses), which many other people also report, im normally socially anxious but oxy just boosts my mood and I can work for hours... this is in no means hate against this psychiatrist, I think he is doing a GREAT job and probably has helped so so many people, but I just feel like that he doesn't know what an opiate really feel like if he hasn't experienced it himself, again, NO HATE AGAINST THIS DOCTOR!!!

[@noshamey1495]

I never had nodding off. I could t afford to be nodding off. Lol They gave me energy actually. I struggled with opiate addiction for 7 years. It was absolutely an all consuming time and money addiction like most. I'd say by far the most all consuming. I came out because I was so deathly scared of the withdrawl process I didn't get off. I got off opiates by facing the physical symptoms of withdrawl. I didnt cater t those with suboxone or others. I felt it and I didnt deprivate myself of my own feelings I faced them and conquered them .

[@elsiemartin9302]

Without help would like to know how you did it.

[@zoraimaflores6070]

You are a true warrior. I am in the process of it and let me tell you that I be seen the devil through the process is scary but I am committed to conquer this addictive behavior of mine

[@noshamey1495]

Those opiates lower your threshold for pain which makes every pain 10× worse than it ever really was.

[@mele1617]

Not everyone can do that ..

[@noshamey1495]

@@mele1617 yeah not everyone is going to sit in their pain you have the choice that's your choice you can either stay down in your pain and have excuses or you can come up with the pills or 6ft under with those fake pills.

[@brandonhicks2522]

I would also say when your approaching an addict, you should appear imperfect yourself tell them about some struggles you’ve had with things whether that be drugs or mistakes you’ve made that youve had to fix or get help with trying to show them that you’ve been there

[@808stateofmind2]

Wish we could get people as addicted to connecting with others as they are with their phones.. it would fix so much if we just would open up to honesty and trust that the world will still love and accept us despite our perceived imperfections

[@reemclaughlin4260]

FYI: It was different for me. I got energy. 🙏🏼♥️🕊

[@starlingballet6082]

ACTUALLY GETTING ENERGY FROM IT IS ACTUALLY A SYMPTOM TO THO I SUFFER END STAGE OSTEOARTHRITIS AND I'D RATHER GET THAT ENERGY THAN THE SOMULENCE GIVEN BY SUBOXONE WHICH IS A JOKE RIGHT NOW. I GET ((NO)) PAIN RELIEF W SUBOXONE BECAUSE U NEED MORE OF IT FOR RELIEF THAN A TRUE OPIATE. I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY WE ARE PUT ON SUBOX FOR PAIN BUT BECAUSE THEY CAN CALL IT AN OPIATE THEY STILL CAN'T GIVE MORE THAN 90 MG I NEED 120 MG FOR PAIN RELIEF W OPIOID. I HAD BEEN ON 15 MG METHDNE AND 15MG OXYCODONE EV 4 TO 6 HRS. THIS WORKED!! ALSO NEED A HIP REPLACEMNT. I AM LIVING IN PAIN FREAKING HELL X 7 YRS. THEY JUST FIGURED OUT THE HIP IS TOAST. SINCE SUBOXONE /NALOXONE BLICKES THR OPIOID REC3PTORS FROM TAKING IN THE OPIOID WHY CALL IT AN OPIOID. ITS AN OPIOID BLOCKER!!! NAME IT PROPERLY AND GIVE PTS THEIR ACTUAL THERAPEUTIC DOSE FOR GOD SAKE!!

[@chieftricky]

Me too I always felt invincible. I never nodded off ever it gave me energy and made me happy until I started withdrawals.

[@Jc22ny]

Amazing energy! unlike anything felt else ❤

[@shawnmurphy2047]

Yeah, me too when I used I could go for hours and hours… then afterwards withdrawal was hell

[@eveadorn8028]

My current boyfriend is hiding it . But every Saturday he is so angry - screaming and yelling and even physically abusive … like clockwork . I can guarantee it’s a fight coming Saturday morning . He will wake me in my sleep with anger . I don’t know what he is using , but he is on something . He denies every time . I have resolved to leaving all together. YES PIN-POINT PUPILS!!! thank you !!

[@DutchieThePitty]

Did u mention sneezing? So funny when you have opioids in your system, you never sneeze.... but once dopesick ....you sneeze constantly.

[@mele1617]

He has such compassion..

[@justicegusting2476]

My doctor was so thankful when I got off the prescription merry-go-round. You know, the one where you get 240 Norcos for 30 days but are out of them on day 25 and have to spend 5 days being grumpy, grouchy, and irritable until you can get your next 240. Got so tired of that after years that I just said fuck it, I’m going cold turkey. Ryan Donnelly videos right here on youTube really gave me the strength to get through the withdrawals and post acute withdrawals. All praise to that guy. My doctor said only 5% of people are ever able to kick on their own. I never told him about Saint Ryan Donnelly and how he encouraged me through his Free From Hell channel.

[@starlingballet6082]

UHHH YEAH, IF U WERE OUT TO SOON U WERE TAKING TO MANY PER DAY! AND U KNEW THAT. ITS CALLED DISCIPLINE! BUT HAY! I'M GLAD U KICKED IT. THANK GOD U HAVE NO CHRONIC PAIN ILLNESSES,!! I SUFFER END STAGE OSTEOARTHRITIS AND NEED A NEW HIP WORKED PHYSICALLY CHALLENGING WORK MY WHOLE LIFE. I ACTUALLY MUST HAVE THESE MEDS TO WORK AND TO QUELL THE ENORMOUS PAIN.. WHEN OPIOID CRISIS CAME AND THEY CUT ME FROM 120MG TO 90MG DAY THAT WAS THE KISS OF DEATH FOR ME. I HAD TO QUIT WORK, SELL MY HOME ( NO INHEIRITANCE FOR MY SON) AND APPLY FOR SSI)DISABILITY THRU ME INTO THE POORHOUSE WHY? ITS ALL POLITICAL. ALL THIS GEORGE SOROS COMMUNIST ATTEMPTED OVERTHROW OF OUR COUNTRY. IVE BEEN DOING MY HOMEWORK. 55 MILLION AMERICANS IN CHRONIC PAIN =1/3 TO 1/4 OF AMERICA 35 .MILLION IN SEVERE PAIN LIKE ME. THUS NOW DESTITUTE THE REST THROWN OUT OF WORK AT A MINIMUM. NOW, IMAGINE DROPPING A BOMB ON 1/3 TO 1/4 OF THIS COUNTRY AND CANADA TOO! ( SAME THING UP THERE!!) YOU SEE MY POINT? THE CCP OR COMMY SOROS JUST WIPED OUT A THIRD OR SO OF OUR NATIONS!! ADD IN THE NURSING HOME MURDERS BY CUOMO AFTER COVID WHEN HE WOULDN'T ACCEPT THE HOSP SHIP TO KEEP PEOPLE FROM GETTING INFECTED. BASTARD!! HE TURNED IT DOWN AND BUNKED THEM ALL TOGETHER THUS MURDERING ALL OF THEM!!! THAT SON OF A BITCH!!! ADD IN THE BABY FORMULA SCARCITY AND BABY DEATHS! EVERYBODY ELSE HAS FORMULA.... .HE, BIDEN, IS HIDING OURS...THAT SON OF A BITCH!!! NOW THE CATTLE DEATHS AND CHICKEN WAREHOUSES = FOOD SCARCITY. THESE COMMY BASTARDS WANT AMERICANS DEAD!!!! THEY HATE US!! BIDEN, OBAMA, SOROS, GATES,; SCHWAB, PELOSI, HARRIS, WATERS, THE SQUAD, BLM,ANTIFA, THE BLACK PANTHERS, OCCUPY, OTHERS LIKE THEM ONLINE, MCCONNELL, CHENEY, GRAHAM AND A HOST OF RINOS EITHER BLACKMAILED, BRIBED, PAYOLA'D, THREATENED ETC OUR NATIONS SERVANTS HAVE BECOME GREEDY AND WEAK AND LOST THEIR MORAL COMPASSES.

[@MinkaMinks]

I am going to check out his channel, bc I’m definitely in the middle of detoxing from home bc no place in my county would medically or non medically detox me from methadone!

[@zoraimaflores6070]

Thank you for this series of interviews they are priceless to me and I am sure you are saving many lives with this valuable information thank you so much for your time and passion

[@vintagebleachedblonde4322]

I love this doctor so much he has compassion I wish I could find someone in real life like this but there’s not

[@capresti3537]

I highly doubt they have compassion. Psychology/psychiatry is a belief system that believes humans are animals to be trained not be compassionate.

[@RobotronSage]

Very wise man

[@drakegunter9081]

Yeah. He cares. For sure. Which is more than most. But his info is very general and misleading. There is differences between even the different types of opiates and their effects.

[@user-gy4tp4ku1q]

This was an Eye opener for many. I saw so many things in it as I watched other people go through these things and hoped they would do right by their children, and they usually lost their children and some regained them later on. Thank You for the video.

[@brandonhubbard4114]

This right here was worth its weight in gold! I have two people in my life that I’m trying to help (not including myself), “every time I click something else clicks™️”😉

[@frankiethabah3454]

Heads off to u doc..really appreciate n thankful to you.. May GOD BLESS YOU...

[@Gshan313]

I'm going through withdrawal..Heroin is so evil it's gives u pleasure at first and thn the pain goes double. 💯 and this doc is amazing ❣️

[@limayaden8458]

Did the Good prevail against the Evil?? Did you use Medicine Assisted Treatment or you went Cold turkey? I've tried many many times to withdraw on my own but the pain was unbearable. This time I'm using buprenorphine to help me get through the detox period. Hope I make it this time.

[@Gshan313]

@@limayaden8458 Lima even I thought of leaving that monster on my own yeah even I did. I was like I'm not going to doc coz in my mind It was my decision to do dope. So why go to doc to seek help with med. But i was wrong.. U need a doc to get off that demon. I'm sober and clean now and i made it.. I'm not going to relapse no matter what.. I know and believe u can do that too. Please get off that monster.. U know all my relationship were struggling and ol that. Now I'm back to life. And life is beautiful I'm with u in this journey.. ❤ ur gonna make it.. Do it for yourself. Trust me I have been there I know how dark it is.. But sunshine will hit ur life back. I'm with you ❤

[@thaihm]

I never knew any of these signs. Thank you for sharing! 🙏🏼👍🏽❤️

[@RobotronSage]

Very informative stuff, i love the empathic nature of the good doctor

[@shaneball2358]

I really liked the tip to ask about addiction issues when someone feels remorse. I'm curious if that is also a risk given that they might be shaming themselves feel guarded and defensive? I'm sure that trust and rapport is vital as well.

[@veiraiduleeshe2895]

Interesting conversation, thanks for update 👍🏼

[@SweetImmaculateHeart]

It seems like the confusion going on with people in the comments over the "nodding/lethargy " symptom described in the video, vs the high energy they may have experienced personally on pills is the video is mistitled. The title says "opioid" addiction, but the Dr. Is exclusively using the word "opiate" when describing the symptoms. And having been married to an addict for 15 years who initially used pain pills then later transitioned to heroin, i could tell a significant difference between the 2. Namely the nodding off and slow motor function, which he never did on pain pills, but did constantly on even "small" doses of heroin (usually at the end of the day).

[@zoehill200]

this was so good.

[@Mugairyuiai]

It was the lack of appetite and weight loss that first alerted me Then of course the aggressiveness.

[@roflol82]

The aggression :/

[@kenisharodriguez5533]

Thank you so much doctor in my career I jist watch your videos so I can see and keep on top of all the patients. Thank you

[@PT-tw6kg]

Accurate 100% dealt with one for years. They passed away.

[@ginareid996]

My husband was using opiates ,most of our marriage,he always denied it,even when id find it,hed say it wasn't his. There would be razor blades and little bags ,hidden,I'd find them ,again he'd write it off,he tried to gaslight me once ,it was atrocious,life was bad ,it was obvious to me ,yet he'd never admit or get help,now we're not together after a long time...he had nose bleeds,colds,immune system hijacked and anger and rage episodes which forced me in the end to leave,he was a good man once ...sad .I wish him well ,he seems to have changed but still hangs out with people who use it or are in contact with it . I'm out

[@taletalks802]

Can you please come.up with a series about detoxification process in drug addiction with dr sportelli please

[@danavixen6274]

Detoxification methods should be discussed more.

[@MedCircle]

You can watch that video right here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pX7bZZ6KmJx3jNk

[@christinafernandez623]

Thank youu so much for this information ❤❤❤❤

[@whateveryousay5674]

I used to get beat everyday as a kid, my dad used to cheat and beat my mom senseless this only naturally trickled down to me. Every other day she would kick me out and I would live on the streets. I could never call the police on her because she was always a bit confused. The pain inside and all the confusion and anger I don’t know what happened inside of me. I found myself popping pills and just trying to numb out the pain.

[@lgillie9768]

We are all human, don't feel guilty about choosing that route to be on another planet to find a feel good place to go to. You went through some bad stuff for a long time. and that had to weigh on your psych. I wish you well.

[@kimhalvorson6749]

Except for some of us that are wired differently. With my chronic intractable pain lessened, I have more energy that my young adults can handle. I have never felt lethargic and it has been 20 years without increase.

[@smileyp4535]

Yeah that's a thing at lower doses, it's weird how it does that

[@morgandawn6413]

I believe it's different for us chronic pain sufferers.

[@kathleengivant-taylor2277]

⁠i think ur right. Iam a chronic pain patient as well and been so for over 10 years. No increases

[@milescunha5286]

The yawning in my experience is believe it or not lack of sleep. Waking for a fix and nodding in and out or using for sleep and not sleeping naturally and also lack of nutrition choosing the drug over nutrition that weakness and tiredness hit with the withdrawal pretty initially. It’s low energy levels irregular sleep needing your body needing to sleep and recover that’s the yawning.

[@boessheila50]

Yrs ago when I worked night or 3-11p. I was so exhausted.taking classes too Ns when I went to church. I nodded off and yawned alot. I DID NOT NOR WILL I EVER TAKE PAIN DRUGS, IVE NEVER EVEN HAD A SLEEPING PILL IN MY LIFE. I HAVE HEART BP AND ARTHRITIS BAD BUT I WILL NOT GET ON THE PAIN MED WAGON. I HAVE EDUCATION IN DRUG ADDICTION AND MOST PPL R FEEDING THE BRAIN NOT THE BODY PAIN!!! HENCE ADDICTION GROWS. ITS THE BRAIN THAT REQUIRES HIGHER DOSES!!

[@boessheila50]

Yes. Working too hard with homeless and addict women which I LOVED. Created my exhaustion. Classes, working. Not enough sleep. I got burned out!!! Without any ADDICTION pain or sleep meds!!!

[@smileyp4535]

It's actually more than that, it's something to do with your muscles, you feel like you need to stretch but never quite get there, and yawning stretches out your jaw, neck and chest muscles. I know from experience the difference between a real streatch/yawn/sneeze and one caused by w/d idk why it does that but it does. You can tell because they are just never feels quite satasfying for some reason and you may wanna do it 2/3 times as a result, it's strange to describe but yeah it's just like you can't quite stretch your muscles enough to get that stretch you need 🤔

[@jacalyntaylor6721]

Thank you 😊

[@jacalyntaylor6721]

My son had this my other son was on meth I wish I knew this before. My one son was on heroin and I didn't know until later the one on meth has lost everything these are adult kids I've always been there for them now I am broke

[@MedCircle]

Thank you for supporting mental health education 💙

[@catherinepraus8635]

Thank you for putting this issue out the I appreciate you two

[@dirkteur4766]

Please tell me what to use in case of chronic pain by artrosis, where I tried everything 🙏

[@SAMEntalhealth]

Opiate addicts behavioral issues with isolation are because we can't be out longer than 6 hours it's horrible

[@ramonadiaz7755]

Why can’t you be out? How disgusting !!!

[@kiaq1153]

@@ramonadiaz7755 because of withdrawls. I think

[@nickolespears]

Thats a fact though. I wouldnt stay out or go far in NY

[@Cannibalizee]

The motor retardation thing is way more common in people who take benzos

[@Misuzu4213]

yep I took copious amounts of opiates for months and it made me hyper and shake. My ex was addicted to benzos and she was really slow in her movements

[@MarvinMonroe]

Yeah nodding is different than moving in slow motion.

[@justshay]

Mixing...

[@DFW817]

They gave me energy. I could run a marathon on them. Never nodded or got slow. Getting off them as we speak.

[@lordhughes7690]

Same here, but that’s prob because you take low dose. Some people take 30 mg up to 80mg and higher every 3 or 4 hours….

[@DFW817]

@@lordhughes7690 I was taking 15-20 10’s hydros a day. Was def not a low dose.

[@DFW817]

@@lordhughes7690 I was taking 15-20 10’s hydros a day. Was def not a low dose.

[@thuliramasodi7417]

Which one struggling with tramadol

[@DFW817]

@@thuliramasodi7417 hydrocodone, I’ve been on subs for 7 months and 0 relapses. I started at 2.5 subs, now I’m down to 1/2 sub a day. I feel great and once you go a while without them. You realize how dumb it is to take those. You can do it, you just have to do it.

[@SAMEntalhealth]

After every yawn, you get MORE awake and anxious. It's so weird. And you wish you could sleep lol

[@Purecarbo]

Wow. I can finally watch videos on opiates without the damn cravings or thinking about getting some 😂

[@vintagebleachedblonde4322]

I have absolutely never nodded of on my pain meds But I did on heroin I wish they would not generalize all opiate opioid in the same category because it’s not the same

[@kiaq1153]

How did u feel nodding?

[@servingdogfood4144]

@@kiaq1153all opioids have a different nod. i feel as if oxy and heroin are more warm feeling n euphoria is more. than say fentanyl methadone morpine

[@drakegunter9081]

Thank you. This is important. There are levels. Different signs for different levels and types. AND how they affect you personally.

[@smilley7383]

You just didn't pop enough to nod out, heroin is stronger ala the nodding you experienced

[@chelsfargo5483]

The yawning and restlessness is why i always go back to using…i can’t sleep at all. And IF i do fall asleep, any little noise or movement wakes me up. Its terrible. I am on day 1…im using suboxone, please pray for me. I used 6/7 oxys per day $40x6/7 a day….you do the math. I was spending every last dollar i had. When I realized i have 0$ and rent is behind a month and now rent is due in a couple days…i threw my hands up and said ok. Lets do this

[@dennisJ0330]

Did you get off? Straight edge clean or replacement therapy with the dones or suboxone? Someone close to me is trying to get off a 600mg a day habit and she doesn’t want replacement therapy even tho many of us tell her she might need it in order to come off. Hopefully you’re on your way!

[@Angeleyes26]

Please tell , did you stopped. Or gonna try again. I failed so many times . I use 3 x 10 mg. From the doctor. Wanna stop. Try Herbs

[@emilyrose4258]

How are you doing

[@user-fc4si2ic2v]

Dam I Spend 40$ Everyday And Get 25 bLuez I Hate It Jstz Wanna Get Off It bUt Scared Of Tha Withdrawals Havnt Gone Thru One Ever Since My 1st Withdrawal Which Wasnt That bAd nOw That I Think Of It bUt nOw Im Sure Its Gonna Hurt Like Hell bEen On It For A Year And Half nOw Maybe

[@GuyzLikeMe]

ALL DOCTORS & Nurse Practitioners need to be well versed with a “taper” & “step down program” to get off opioids with minimal withdrawal reactions. 9&1/2 months it took to stop Dalaudid (Hydromorphone). The timeframe to stop opioids is different for everyone. At the end, was down to 1 Dalaudid every 12 hours but would be in extreme withdrawal pains between the 8th hour to the 12th hour. So, use an alternate option to reduce the pain (step down to Hydrocodone) AND just be patient.

[@TheMajesticice01]

I agree most of the lm will just release you without a taper which is awful

[@GuyzLikeMe]

@@TheMajesticice01 The doctor hands you a reduced script & says you gotta start taking less. I’m a stage 4 cancer patient & off ALL opioids for over 2 years but was sad because I HAD TO SEARCH THE INTERNET TO LEARN WHAT A TAPER PLAN & STEP DOWN PROGRAM IS! MY DOCTOR WAS CLUELESS OR FAILED TO TELL ME HOW. I read that only 1 out of 4 people are successful. I’m happy I was the successful one!

[@MJ-gc5fr]

@@GuyzLikeMe How are you able to manage your pain? Was the withdrawal due to reduced efficacy from tolerance? Did anyone ever suggest buprenorphine as an alternative? I hope you are not suffering.

[@GuyzLikeMe]

@@MJ-gc5fr Thanks for asking. Withdrawal from Hydrmorephone (Dalauid) was horrific not that I was craving the drug, because I wasn’t. The last couple months were just so extremely painful that I asked God to take my life twice. I was down to 1 pill every 12 hours but I learned the hard way that between the 8th hour through the 12th hour my stomach hurt so bad I would just sit on the toilet and actually cry. Everything hurts on your body really bad. I dropped down to a strong Hydrocodone script and that really help moving me from one of the strongest opioids to a less severe one. I weened myself off Hydrocodone by using Medical THC for 5 straight days in a row. I pretty much stayed “high” through that horrific 5 day experience as well. After the 5 THC (smoking) days were over, I stopped ALL pain killers. I suffered through bearable pain month 10 - month 12. I haven’t been on opioids now going on 3 years now & don’t ever want to go back on them for pain. I was given a script of Gabipintin but I didn’t want to get “hooked” again on another pain killer. I am opioid free. I lived through the horrific pain, was patient with myself and pretty much told my doctor what I needed (prescription wise) to withdraw. There is a new pill out that alleviates the horrific withdrawal but IMO, you NEED TO EXPERIENCE THE LIVING HELL OF WITHDRAWAL to ensure you won’t ever relapse back to taking opioids. Taper down time & drug wise & then use THC for 5 days without any opioids. That should get anyone off opioids & they won’t relapse since they will ALWAYS remember the HORRIFIC WITHDRAWAL PAIN & SUFFERING. If anyone needs help or suggestions, just respond to this thread. Good luck & God Bless. P.S.-I still live with the “after chemo” pain effects, but I just put up with that pain & use gummy bears when I need relief.

[@GuyzLikeMe]

@@MJ-gc5fr Oh, and I continually listened to @ManchesterOrchestra (Inde rock & alternative group). From what I’ve read, many folks withdrawing from drug use, spousal breakup, etc. listen to them. I guess it’s the lead singer, Andy Hull’s unusual but awesome voice as well as the melodies that help people in physical & mental pain. Listen to them - Manchester Orchestra - from Atlanta.

[@louisebarnard2869]

Lots of scabs on their face , scratching....recovering Heroin addict ,active addiction 12 yrs ,17 clean...

[@TheMajesticice01]

I’m being tapered off of Fentanyl because I don’t need it as much as I did when I was first diagnosed with Anklosing Spondylitis. I’m happy with how I’m being tapered off because we are going at a rate that has minimal withdrawal symptoms. Especially since I have to work to support myself.

[@GuyzLikeMe]

Just take it slow & don’t be afraid to try alternative drugs that are now legal to help you go over the bridge smoothly! On Dalaudid 1&1/2 years…..way too long…that’s why it took me over 9 months after my 1&1/2 years to taper off slowly & then switch to a lesser opioid & the now legal THC.

[@TheMajesticice01]

@@GuyzLikeMe see my state doesn’t have legal THC which is a problem

[@GuyzLikeMe]

@@TheMajesticice01 I’m sorry to hear that ur state doesn’t allow medical THC. That assisted my final 5 days of Hell that broke me from Hydromorphone (Dalaudid). It’s sad that in many ways our government wants to run our lives!

[@shockawha9]

@@TheMajesticice01 you must be here in TN

[@MarvinMonroe]

Thought he was going to mention itching/scratching but he mentioned pinned pupils instead. He even scratched his nose

[@MissTree22]

Great info

[@frankiethabah3454]

I really n totally agree wit every words he said n says.. he's absolutely right n fully correct..i. Do...coz m one of dem...

[@mrlearningscholar4078]

I always took moderate doses of opioids it made me stimulated and energetic

[@XpurlX]

I have had a rare autoimmune disease felty syndrome for two years. I had to inject neupogen injection for two years, which gave me unbearable bone pain. At the pain clinic they have prescribed oxicodon 2x 15mg long-acting and 4x 10mg short-acting. In the meantime I am cured of the felty syndrome no longer need to inject neupogen injection so I no longer have bone pain. But I don't know how to get rid of that high dose of oxicodon. Please can you give advice?

[@GuyzLikeMe]

Get on the internet & read articles about a “taper plan”. Learn about “shelf life” in ur blood….(the time it takes for 1 dose to wear off) & learn about a step down program….taking a lower strength drug & possibly THC. I’m not a doctor & these are my suggestions only. Your 1st choice is to talk to your doctor. Good luck & prayers really do work!

[@user-gy4tp4ku1q]

Ask Your doctor do not do anything on your own as it could have a very bad complication. Your doctor can help you do this and if to fast he can help you fix that to and if you still need the med he will figure out you really need his help ether way.

[@sadhu7191]

Kratom

[@smileyp4535]

I'm so curious about the dry mouth, why does it do that? Is it related to the constipation? Why does it dehydrate people, it makes you sweat and fills your bladder, I wanna know what causes that 🤔

[@dinkwoodham80]

To the ones that don't have money to get true help with the withdrawals what could they do to overcome that like at home because I knw the you can die from withdrawals but you may feel like you want to or going to but I need some true Advice plez

[@NATAS-cr3ss]

To understand opioid withdrawal just pull a fish out of water and ask how it feels

[@jacehardy1243]

Wahhhhh

[@bobwilson4648]

You don't know anything but what the DEA is telling you. Believe it or not there are people in so much pain they need these meds.

[@shankaraa6394]

My prayers for everyone who is struggling with heroin addiction 💙💙

[@nAuGhTyKiTti666]

I have had a prescription from my doctor of oxynorm and oxycontin for over a year now. Unfortunately i have a hernia pushing on my nerves it's incredibly painful. I decided i wanted to just stop it, big mistake i never felt so ill in my life the pain was so intense that i just decided it was not a good idea. I had no idea i couldnt just stop it, I live a clean life no alcohol, healthy diet. Honestly i thought i just got a flu until i told my doctor, I thought i was going to die. Medication wise i'm very limited i cant take NSAID's because of a gastric sleeve and i take anticoagulants, so what do i do???

[@user-gy4tp4ku1q]

I had a Rooyen Y and had been on Oxycodone medication since 2008. This was for messed up knee surgery and other pain related problems. I was hit by 2 drunk drivers and was 8 months pregnant he died 16 hours after birth, and I had six broken bones including both legs hands and pelvic. I was on the medication for that. I decided I didn't like being on that med so I decided to go to an addiction clinic and get put on film strips because I didn't like how that feeling is that it wanted you to fear being without the med. Also, I do not like the thought of future surgeries that you did not receive the minimal pain med for that surgery. I had a problem with my large, small intestines and my mesentery rolled into a ball and adhesive was adhesions holding them together and no extra pain med for that ten-inch scar of a surgery bc I was on pain med for years. It didn't matter. Never again would I have to be in that severe of pain and I had one large blood clot and many small blood clots and could have died. The ER persons sitting behind the desk made the decisions as to if I could see the doctor and after 17 1/2 hours i saw a doctor who could not do contrast on a CT bc I was allergic but didn't think of premed and sent me home. Every time I ate it became worse and in less then 48 hours at about midnight, I had to go to ER again and after 5 1/2 hours was sent back to a doctor who premeded and CT showed severe problems and I had to have emergency surgery and my life was in danger. I had begged the clerical staff the first and second time for help. I told them I didn't want pain med I wanted help let the doctor tell me what he wants done and they refused to help. The first time to ER I cried could not stand and walk had to beg so much and they refused to listen I told both times I had enough pain med it was not the problem something made me think I would die bc of how I felt in my body. no one would listen. I finally had surgery and my insides put back where they were to go, and doctor said it was a big challenge and he had to relearn the anatomy of the abdomen all over again. Did not make me feel that great to hear after he just did major surgery on me lol. But he saved my life, although I have nightmares over this because it was so painful and felt like I would die before anyone would listen and that a staff not a doctor could easily make these decisions for a patient are just not right and should be stopped.

[@sadhu7191]

Kratom dummy

[@shockawha9]

Tired???? Energy you mean! Thebaine the base of heroin, oxycodone, percs, etc. it is a stimulant! The reason every pain patient complained of needing more is because only at high doses does anesthesia kick in. Even heroin, as with other opiates once pain relief is achieved, the dose plateaus. I’ve never been irritable during withdrawal.

[@lynnaridgeway2104]

This man is talking like we still live in the 80's .

[@jessicawright4019]

My dad gets energy,my mom nods and makes weird noises, and said weird things. I have a question, If I'm able to move away from them, should I? Because I help pay the bills and if I move away they will have a hard time paying! I told them I can't stand the drugs and if they don't stop I'll move away! So would moving be selfish?

[@cubanadelrey]

you need to move away and save yourself. you’re only enabling them

[@ropo772]

What if the one abusing opiates is a health care professional and their getting them from work? Will coworkers intervene ? Or do the enable the abuser?

[@Spicyginger777]

I don’t know being on opioids (percs and Codeine) made me get everything done was super happy and focused less anxiety better mom. But later on being on it I built a tolerance fast and was taking to much it’s dangerous and addictive unlike any other category of drugs . But can’t be seen on everyone I was a functioning addict. No one knew until I had to speak up about my addiction

[@yvettesantiago6300]

Three other very important physical signs to look out for are: 1. A person high on dope will often itch their skin and or face, it is a itchiness that cannot be controlled. "The dope itch" (My tell was a red itchy nose) 2. This ties into 1 heroin is toxic to our skins health. almost everyone I used with had moderate to severe acne. If they didn't they just had terrible skin, almost grayish and sallow and lackluster. 3. The voice of a heroin user changes drastically it becomes deeper, froggy, raspy and slowed. It's hard to describe but just know they will sound different. Sometimes this can by permanent if the person uses for a long time. I do not miss having that chimp on my shoulder. I thank my higher power that I wake up ready to face my day, ready to get out of bed and not have to worry about that damn monkey riding my back, 2 decades I dealt with that. I am now dealing with my sugar and over eating addiction... life is hard for the addict. One day at a time.

[@LIVEMETRIX187]

heroin is not toxic to the skins health, maybe the cuts and impurities in street heroin but pharmacy prescribed heroin exists and it’s safety is the same as oxycodone and morphine’s.

[@kaya-sc5ku]

Hi there, your comment was very interesting. I know a person who died of an overdose. Can someone use occasionally without becoming addicted? What are the signs of heroin use in an occasional user? Sorry to ask but I need to know. Thank you in advance and well done for facing this horrible issue with courage.

[@user-gy4tp4ku1q]

I have a very itchy skin condition and I have a grayish skin condition under the skin that I have to have a biopsy on from a derm doctor according to my RA doctor and I would hate for people to think it was because of taking drugs. So, some might think that itching and grayish skin is a big sign please be sure that there are Many other signs the person is on drugs before comparison.

[@kaya-sc5ku]

@@user-gy4tp4ku1q the itch caused by heroin abuse is nothing like the condition you're describing. The heroin itch is all over the body and not in one place. I hope that you will be okay

[@LIVEMETRIX187]

@@kaya-sc5ku occasionally using heroin isn’t a concern. it’s the same as drinking alcohol on the weekends. addiction is usually daily use.

[@jumana6977]

You are so right bro... I caught my girlfriend on that shit! She was so mad I caught her!! So sad

[@UNIQUEWALKER-pl9bp]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Mar12785]

Im here because im suspect of someone iv been with almost 3 years. Ive noticed these symptoms minus the nodding off. Last couple months ive been finding small spots of blood stains on the sheets or pillow cases. He says he is really itchy at night. How can I truly find out?

[@briannaaaa2929]

In the same boat girl. My bf of 3 years does all this even nods off.

[@coast_2coast]

Ask them ffs. When they can't get the drugs you will know for sure!! It's hell on earth

[@WeirdRoamingWolf]

Yawning can be a sign for the lack of oxygen. I think yawning is a method of self calming while they experience withdrawal = experience anxiety. Because people who experience anxiety often have a heightened need for oxygen.

[@drakegunter9081]

Some of these are spot on. But the reality alot of times, especially if it's a long time addict. The drugs make you feel somewhat normal or close to it. So there is no slow movement or nodding off. It's more social cues and situations that give away what's happening. With various results and indications. So whie I relate to this in a unique way. There are obvious differences between a recreational user and a full blown addict. And they affect people differently as well.

[@sadhu7191]

So does coffee or cigarettes??? Wjats your point

[@drakegunter9081]

It was a very vague generalized breakdown. Some signs might not be present vs. other new signs not accounted for. I just felt that personally, it missed the mark on some things. I guess if I had a point, that would be it. Do you feel differently?

[@tonirosellosavlog]

Thank you so much this is very informative.

[@MedCircle]

Thank you for watching 💙

[@briannaaaa2929]

Is it possible for people to “nod off” for an hour or more ? I suspect my boyfriend of being an opioid user and he comes home from work every day and he nods off, has slow movements and blames it all on being “tired”. I’m so scared for him

[@robertkenney6002]

I’d back off him. It’ll be easy to tell within a months time unless he’s a VERY prepared/functioning addict. Those withdrawals will come one day. And if he randomly gets “better” after having the “flu” quickly could be opioid as well

[@bluestrings8829]

Maybe benzos, maybe opiates, opioids. Be scared if he's using powder fentanyl!!!

[@terryfishbourne6927]

So glad they picked a normal, average looking doctor for this

[@LoveLife-oo9cz]

Actually he is quiet handsome for a doctor lol. Troll much?

[@melissatilton4427]

I know he’s gorgeous right 😂

[@colleenwithers6793]

Not everyone steals

[@naeemalewis14]

Joh this man, everything is true😢

[@XxTHEGENERALxX79]

I’m impressed, as a former heroin addict these guys are on point

[@lbali2896]

Seeking some help, from where though??

[@candicealphin5746]

Omg the yawning sucksssss so bad

[@hamburger3205]

I never heard anything about paranoia. Is paranoia a symptom too?

[@chrisstrande5878]

Not sure been told so.

[@chelsfargo5483]

Also does anyone in recovery know how long before you get back on a regular sleep schedule?

[@sethstruck7022]

Months. Maybe a little sooner if your not too bad.

[@yvettesantiago6300]

It depends in my experience and from what I heard from others Methadone, Oxycontin, and Bupenorphrine take about a month to a month and a half. Heroin and Fentanyl can take 7-10 days. Someone who does 3 bags a day compared a bundle or more will have different detoxification rates. Many things to factor in but I'm giving you ballpark figures.

[@Pam_Livinlife]

My mother has been an opioid abuser for over 25 years and now she has stage 4 lung cancer and its the most difficult to care for because I dont know if she is feeding the addiction or the actual pain from cancer... her body has built up a tolerance to the heavy stuff.. palliative care has her on 30 mg morphine twice a day every 12 hours and 15mg for in between pain if needed.. I think this is alot but apparently the palliative care doctor think its okay as long as its monitored by me.

[@CatalinaFOIA]

Is your mother kind? If so... help your mother. She has cancer 😢 cherish your good times with her and don't worry about the potential for addiction; she is dependent on the medications to work.

[@sadhu7191]

My mom's dying and I am worried she is high on opiates so bad she can't feel pain. U said hahaha sociopath

[@jessicalink9863]

your mother has cancer. Until you have been through that pain I would not judge.

[@Aluminata]

And do they also tend to repeat things?

[@lolasky204]

Yes!!!!!

[@professionalasschomper6276]

I always wonder how people who aren’t addicts know this

[@TroyBennett-mu4xe]

I could feel the weekness leave once I turned my back

[@janeyd5280]

Yes nodding off.x

[@jacalyntaylor6721]

I've actually seen this and didn't know about it.

[@missuniverse8931]

Dozing off and have have seen where he has had several car accidents, like running off the road. I’ve seen the pupil get really small. A paramedic Narcan incident. And then later on that night, they got high again even after they had all of the throwing. Mood swings. He would complain about stomach pains and he would always complain about constipation. He would be irritable, snappy and always would be yawning all the time. Racey type of behavior. I don’t seem how he maintained being financially secure.

[@AwRats420]

I feel like a lot of this guys perspective is really based on outside looking in mentality. Based off his language you can tell hes never really dealt with an opioid addiction because a lot of the symptoms he mentioned are what shows when an intolerant individual takes opioids. If someone with a genuine addiction is going about their day it would be hard to determine that they are high because they are acting very normal due to being used to the drugs. At some point it becomes a thing to take to not feel sick.

[@darvon906]

That's where I'm at after at minimum 15 years of opiate, heroin addiction. I can take amounts of heroin that would kill most people instantly, while the only effects I get are relief from withdrawal for a few hours. The only thing that has intensified over the years is the withdrawals which have driven me to the point of suicide many times.

[@theseklownskrazyasfuq344]

​@@darvon906, Dayum THAT'S wild to where I don't think I want 2 try get'n on THAT black horse for THAT ride lol.

[@arthurb8924]

Sad...

[@sirendipitybritt]

I really don’t mean to seem offensive, but this guy doesn’t really seem like he’s ever taken opiates. At least not pills. I’m a cancer patient and was on pain medication long term. For years. I never felt tired, slow, lethargic or any of the things he’s describing while on the medication. I was able to do all of the tasks I needed to do and honestly don’t think I would have been able to function without it. I was on a strong dose and there were some days where I took multiple pills when I needed them and some days where I didn’t take any. I am fully aware of how dangerous addiction can be for people and that it has ruined the lives of many which is horrible, but sometimes I think these descriptions are slightly dramatized. The things he’s describing aren’t always the case. The medication very much improved my quality of life and I do believe it can be used safely and in moderation. There’s a stigma that sometimes shouldn’t be there.

[@dondressel452]

Unfortunately I need pain medication before I have cancer in the bone So as much as it can be bad it can also be a God send I’ve tried marijuana and other things to help with the pain but the pain meds work the best

[@rohanboswell5408]

i am secretive by nature ,and people have a problem with me and it bothers me that people wants to know every bit of my life ,i dont want people to het too much into my space and i dont take drugs

[@flumpaustin1994]

That's irrelevant. It's just one of the possible signs and the reason is obviously different to yours.

[@MinkaMinks]

Oh one other mention, when you do heroin your not lethargic ONLY DURING DETOX, you are sleepy tho so that might be why your not being active but definitely not lethargic that goes with being weak & absolutely no energy, but we do have energy to talk & do things, unless you do way too much & u can’t stop nodding then u can’t converse LOL!! Thanks again!!

[@rohanboswell5408]

not true im bloated reach for the water would be a challenge for me if im sitting down

[@SommyLogic]

Distracted by the very handsome man but I also did retain alot of the information 😅

[@DanChad-er9lh]

Yeah this is how it is. Jacking up in both arms for over a decade. Then paralysed from waist down. I think everyone should try it if they think they’re so hard.

[@codzy3532]

your a doctor 😳❤🔥

[@austinmonjaras597]

I’ve faking them for almost 15 years I’m always very self aware of how I am perceived and can hide it very well in the beginning why he says is true then you become very confident and outgoing and I do just enough to not make my voice raspy or my Pupils constrict. everyone has thought I’ve been sober the last 3 years it’s just like a normal person I blend in very well.

[@MarcustheKid2K]

damn

[@Killmaisy]

Raspy voice? What is that from?

[@GotStones1]

Tomorrow is 5 months off a 6-800 mg of oxy habit. 2 days of subs and a ton of meetings. Spending $15K/m easy, and that’s not including selling/flipping for freebies

[@67marlins]

So very tiny pupils indicates too much options? For some reason, I always believed that dilated ( enlarged ) pupils indicated too much of a dosage....?

[@jessicawright4019]

I've noticed with my mom her pupils look bigger. Her eyes are dark, so I have to be close to see! I don't pay attention to my dad's pupils, but his eyes are blue, so It would be easier to tell the size.

[@67marlins]

@jessica wright sorry for my mis-typing ( I meant, "opioids", not "options" ). But more importantly, I pray that your Mom is not having a problem with such drugs....?

[@67marlins]

@jessica wright Hi, I hope what I'm about to write makes you feel a little better ( in case you're seriously worried that your Mom is struggling with these addictive drugs )...... I've read that women are more successful with rehabilitation earlier in the process ( it takes them less number-of-attempts and less time ) than men. I personally think this is because women have the strong maternal bond. Therfore, when that mother and is threatened with loss-of-custody, or confronted by their children ( at any age ) tearfully saying how much it hurts them, and how they really don't want their Mom in their lives, it shocks the Mother into seeing just how serious the hurt us. I hope I was wrong in my weak assumption that maybe you brought up talking about your Mom because you fear she rakes such drugs....I am really sorry if my assumptions were wrong. However, I'll be glad to add her to my quiet, early morning prayers if you ask. Please let me know how you feel about this. In meantime, I wish you a peaceful, safe & happy 2023. Please keep in touch. Remember, someone somewhere cares.....and sometimes all you have to do is ask. Jr Massachusetts

[@jessicawright4019]

@@67marlins yes, please pray for her! The thing is, it's her and my dad and they have done this since me and my all of my siblings childhood. I'm 28, soon to be 29 years old,and I depend on my parents, but especially my mom. This past July,on the 1st a family friend overdosed in his room and died! Sure,my parents quit for awhile. But then, it never lasts! I've talked to my parents about the drugs again and again, but they both don't care and lie to my face about using. They use my disability check for it, I want to move away, but I'm stuck with them. I've warned them that if they don't get help, I'm out of there. Of course they would have trouble with the bills if I left but I don't think they should be my responsibility anymore if they won't get help. Why should I live here with them if they do this stuff? I love them,but sometimes you've just got to worry about yourself. I'm the only child living with them now and all my other siblings have their own homes but I'm stuck here. I can't move I'm stuck in this drug house! They are doing a huge crime using my check for it. They don't only use my check but when they have money at all. I always get paid on the first of the month, and sure enough they start acting funny. That whole month our family friend died, they used every single day and my mom's ex husband lives with us and he also almost overdosed in the SAME month and a day before his birthday might I add! I also lost my grandmother in july, so 2 people died almost a third! I am a new Christian and I know to honor my parents, but I feel intense rage when they use and lie to my face. I screamed at my mom and was rude to my dad! That is not how God wants us to treat our parents! But, I've been dealing with all of this myself! All of my other siblings are in drug free homes, while I'm still here with the drugs. Nobody wants to help me,nobody cares. I talk to my siblings about it but sometimes I just feel it's annoying to them! We had a death in one of our other houses years ago! Another family friend died in our bathtub from fentanyl. Seriously, all it's been is drugs and death following us. Now,my younger sister's boyfriend's parents had a Christmas eve party, and my parents used a bag and you could tell. My mom was nodding out and being weird and super affectionate, something she does when she uses. My dad just gets happy and talkative, and my siblings could tell he used also! But my mom was by far worse. I have an older sister that also uses. So, sometimes she lives with us,sometimes she doesn't. Now, she arrived at our house one day when our family friend was still alive and she brought her dad my mom's ex husband, and so, time passed and eventually the family friend overdosed in his room! Everyone else, my older sister, our mom, her dad who is my mom's ex, the family friend when he was alive, and my dad all used! I was, and currently am the only one in the house that doesn't use! Now, it's just me and my parents and my moms ex living in the house, of course we have our pets too. But anyway I'm the only one not using. Now, my mom has 2 kids by her ex, they are my older siblings, my sister that uses, and my older brother who doesn't use at all, and then my mom left her ex, and she met my dad who I also have an older sister by, anyway my mom met my dad and then I came along, followed by my younger sister and eventually my youngest sibling a brother. Well, all of them moved, but I'm the only child with them now, and the only sibling stuck in this drug house.

[@wonderingobserver2231]

I think the yawning is from breathing faster in withdrawal. Breath compensation.

[@ChrisMichaelson69]

At 25 my testosterone level was at a 397 which is what an 80 year old man should have.. i took a shit maybe once or twice a week.. spent alot of the money i had saved for years, i had no drive to do anything, no drive for sex, no drive for work, nothing. Just getting high. Thankful to be off.