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Peter Hibberd, M.D., is a doctor whose advice is based on more than 28 years of hospital outpatient and inpatient experience. He is an experienced emergency medicine physician, surgeon, and consultant. Dr. Hibberd is certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine. He is also a fellow and active member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, an active member of the American College of Emergency Physicians, and a member and fellow of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine. Dr. Hibberd has earned numerous national and international professional certifications, memberships, and awards.

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Tags: methadone | back | pain | painkiller | addiction

Help Me With My Addiction

Wednesday, 21 December 2011 09:23 AM EST

Question: I'm on methadone for back pain and have been for 4 years. I want to stop taking this addictive drug, but I can't stand the feelings of nervousness when I don’t take it. What is the best way to come off this medication?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:
You may need help from your doctor, family, friends, support groups, or an organized treatment program to overcome your drug addiction and stay drug-free. Do not stop taking methadone without talking to your doctor. Your doctor will probably decrease your dose gradually. If you suddenly stop taking methadone, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, teary eyes, runny nose, yawning, sweating, chills, muscle pain, and widened pupils (black circles in the middle of the eyes).

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