Posted by Philip Burke on November 17, 2007, at 16:39:33
I would appreciate input regarding different drug regimes for the treatment of Degenerative Disc Disease, "Failed Back Surgery Syndrome", radiculopathy and various neuropathies associated with this illness. I have been suffering from lower back and leg pain for over 10 years. I've had discectomies X 2 @ L4-5, 1998 & 2000. I had a spinal cord stimulator implanted in 2002, but the efficacy of this device is greatly compromised by "postural problems", rendering it practically useless to me unless I am lying supine, motionless on my bed. I am trying to achieve the best balance of antidepressants, painkillers, anti-seizure medications and any other medication that is effective, for pain relief and mood improvement. I currently see a Pain Management specialist and a psychiatrist to treat chronic pain and depressed mood. I've tried several different antidepressants, and have, at this point in time, settled on a combination of two - Remeron, 30 mgs at bedtime, and Zoloft, 100 mgs in the morning. I also take 100 mgs of Lyrica three times a day and one tablet of Vicoprofen as needed up to 3 times a day. I cannot tolerate Cymbalta. Practically every doctor I have been to recommends this drug, but I have tried twice (over 6 weeks of 60 mgs) and found that although it helps with pain, I could not stand feeling like a brain dead zombie. I keep trying to find the best combination of medications, without the use of narcotics or opiates, to get the relief I need. Any input, suggestions, comments, etc. will be greatly appreciated.
poster:Philip Burke
thread:795592
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20071115/msgs/795592.html