Vicodin use? Long term effects of 5-10mg per day.?

Question by Frankenstein: Vicodin use? Long term effects of 5-10mg per day.?
I’ve been taking 1-2 pills of 5mg hydrochodone/500 acetominophine a day for almost 3 years now for osteoarthritis. I’ve had several non-narcotic prescriptions as well, such as Naproxen which are hard on my stomach. Also I ecercise 3-4 times a week which helps greatly. Is long term use of a low dose of Vicodin more harmful to the body than the pain felt from arthritis without it? I’ve only seen a few studies on people who take larger doses (30-40mg) daily. I’m not agreeing with my doctor right now about it, and will try her advice to see what happens. I think any long term use of anything definitely develops an addiction, but I do not feel like I have. It is difficult to fall asleep for about a week when I go without it. My injuries include broken wrists, shattered knees, broken femur with another surgery for the rod removal. Torn ligaments in knee, broken shoulder, ribs, foot, and 3 concussions. Many other smaller bones broke too, and most of these injuries are about 20 years old. Would like to hear from a physician or pharmacist knowledgeable of the drug.
No problems have occurred due to use of it. The thought of impotency is actually my main concern. I’m in my mid 40’s and actually feel great mentally and physically. No problem with impotency and still have a good sex life with my wife.
I see my doctor regularly, and had a full physical within the past week. I am in great health, with the exception I’m about 20 lbs. over my ideal body weight. I eat good, drink a lot of water, and feel great with exception to osteo pain, which can be intense at times.
I will always follow the advice of my doctor. I just know there has to be a percentage of medical professionals who would say that the amount I take is ok. I know a few people on much higher doses of stronger drugs for back pain which can easily be faked. My x-rays look like a complete Grays Anatomy book with most of the bones cracked, lol.
I have taken Vicoprofen instead of tylenol but stomach doesn’t agree with it. I would rather just take hydrochodone alone without being mixed with Tylenol or Aspirin.

Best answer:

Answer by r3alrage
Impotency is one of the long term effects,
it’s also rare that sometimes hallucinations can occur, which is why you’re not supposed to operate machinery immediately after consuming opiates.
Urination issues can also be common, especially if you take them often, and basically a whole list of things, because Vicodin suppresses the nervous system.

When you’re on Painkillers which work, it’s often easy to simply rely on them whenever you feel pain of any sort. I know it’s rather cliched to say but take them when you NEED to.
It’s possible there may come a time if you’re addicted that you may feel as if it is not working and an overdose occurs, which I hope does not happen.

There are many ways to try and counter pain. You could try deep heat rubs, and wraps (Similar to what bodybuilders use) to give yourself support, especially in areas.

You’re also on a high dosage prescription which is an issue.
You should honestly check with your GP or local doctor about this. You shouldn’t play haste around with your body. Especially since you’re getting older – I’m surprised they do not issue monthly check ups.

Update:

That’s fine, however if you do have an issues you should honestly talk to your GP. Diagnosis online isn’t really as reliable.

You should also try and cut out alcohol and other harmful products from your lifestyle. Because yeah, a cold beer after a hard day is relaxing. But maybe you could try something else.

Oh and sex is beneficial. So maybe that will be compensation for you!
Have a good day.

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