Annabel, I used the patch in increasing multiples for pain from radiation burns, and they worked like a charm. I did not have to use anything else with them. I decreased them rapidly and one day just didn't use any more. No withdrawal at all, no side effects during the 3 or 4 weeks that I used them. I believe I was up to 4 patches at one point. I certainly would recommend that your mom give them a try.