doc gave him neurontin

[tjones]

well, we went to the pain management specialist today. He gave Derek the neurontin along with Avinza. Thank goodness we have an insurance that covers prescriptions. I hope this works. Anything is better than the demerol he was on.

Tomorrow is the orth surgeon. On thursday we have our regular surgeon then OT/PT in the afternoon. I know we need an MRI, at what point do the docs decide that, or is it something I should push?

Again, thanks for answering questions as we are coming up against things.

[EllenB]

When the pain was at it's worse, what worked best for my son was (daily) 3600 Neurontin, 200 Topomax & 100 Amitriptyline (Elavil). Several months later, he was able to cut the Neurontin in half & stop the Amitriptyline completely. I'm glad you're working with a pain doctor, since it seems every case is different. Even on the lower dosages, John still is a little fuzzy.

It will probably take some trial & error, so be patient. Take care,

Ellen

[admin]

I have been taking 6 or so 300mg tablets of Neurontin in one shot at night when I go to sleep for the past two years or so. I have chronic neck pain due to a stenosis (fraomine) and a narrowing of the spinal canal. I have not been willing to have a fusion surgery so the pills help with pain management. My question to anyone is: Do folks just continue to take these meds forever? I'm trying to gather information on side effects to see if the pain reduction is worth it. I have been feeling rather depressed and am starting to suspect the meds though other things in my life (a lack of structure due to the limits my neck condition have created) could be the culprit. Depression has never been a problem for me until the last couple of years.

Any feedback appreciated!

jeff

[EllenB]

Jeff - Early next week I will be speaking with our pain doctor about long term or cumulative effects of Neurontin, as well as Topomax. Although the dosage at this point is 1800, spread out 3 x day, I'll see if I can also get an answer to if there's a difference in taking it once a day instead.

Will post back asap.

Ellen