My options are so limited. I’ve had reactions to lyrica and neurotin. Cymbalta makes me suicidal. Other antidepressants make me feel like I’m losing my mind. I can’t take NSAIDs because I have Crohn’s disease, and they cause bleeding in my bowels. I can take Tylenol, but that causes liver damage with long term use. I’m currently taking a new antidepressant, Brintellix, and I haven’t noticed any changes (for the better or worse, so at least I can tolerate it). And I take hydrocodone on my horrible days and use a TENS unit. Otherwise, I grin and bear it…just getting through one day at a time. I really wish there were something to take my pain levels down, but my best days are a 5/10, and my worst are a 9/10. Over time, I think I’ve just gotten used to it. I know that I’ll never be pain free, but I only wish for more good days than bad ones.
Thank you for you commitment to informing patients. It really means a lot to those of us on the receiving end!