Steve, thanks so much for posting. I'm so happy to read that you are finding some relief.
I'm wondering about the relative dose... 15mg hydrocodone vs. 10 mcg butrans patch. Actually, the concept of narcotic equivalence is kind of a stretch, as the delivery systems are so different.
I did try butrans patches a couple of years ago.... I was then taking 60mg/day oxycontin and did not want to go higher (pun NOT intended). I also did not want to consider anything like fentanyl patches. I transitioned to the butrans at what was thought to be a slightly higher dose than the oxy. I stayed with it for a few months but did not see a huge difference.
The main reason that I did not stay with the butrans is that I have always endeavored to reduce my meds as soon as I can get by with less. IMHO, this is why I've been able to manage the opiates without dealing with the tolerance issues that generate a need for ever increasing doses. I like having the fine granularity of adjustment steps I can take when I need less meds.... stretching doses and dropping med levels. I didn't like the idea of maintaining a constant dose when the need for the med changes so dramatically.
I hope this doesn't come across like me throwing cold water on your party. Your story is inspiring and reminds us that we should keep looking and trying. Just because I didn't have your experience does not mean that anyone else shouldn't try it. My pain management doc has had wonderful result with Butrans and there are so many people who benefit from it. It is great that it doesn't have the same side effect profile and addiction issues that may opiates come with, but not everyone gets the magic.
I've seen so many amazing recoveries through the years, including many from modalities that I think are smoke and mirrors or do not understand. Don't look a gift horse in the mouth... if it works for you... enjoy! (I've never understood that expression. I don't even know what a gift horse is or why anyone wants to look in it's mouth.)
Stay well my friend!
Mark
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