I don't think that I could have made it without the Duralgesic patches. The highest dose that I got up to was 75. I weaned myself back to 50's and then 25's and then got off completely. I do recall being a little depressed for a few days when I first quit using the patches, but that passed. Like Gary said, all opiate medications can be addictive and/or dangerous if not used properly. That, however, is no reason to take advantage of them if one is in pain and needs them.

Danny G.


Stage IV Base of Tongue SCC
Diagnosed July 1, 2002, chemo and radiation treatments completed beginning of Sept/02.