I have severe menstrual cramps. What are my chances of getting a prescription to an opoiod/opiate?

Question

I have severe menstrual cramps, that are so painful that I cannot leave my bed for 2-3 days.

I've taken various anti-inflammatory drugs for this pain, including OTC Advil (Ibuprofen),Midol (acetaminophen),and Asprin.None of these drugs relieved my pain even by 1%. I have also taken OTC Tylenol 1 (8mg codeine), but I suspect that I am allergic to that drug.

When I approached my doctor about it, I got put on perscription anti-inflammatory drugs: Anaprox, and then later, Ponstan. Neither of these drugs provided the slightest bit of relief for me. In fact, they were just as innefective as the OTC variety.

I don't want to elaborate, but birth control pills are not an option, and neither is visiting a gynecologist.

I would like to approach my physician about the idea of taking a different class of drugs, that is to say, a legitimate painkiller. However, I know doctors are reluctant to prescribe such medication, and wonder if I should even bother to try. Do I have a reasonable chance?

Bmac, that is by far the worst advice I have ever gotten in my life. You're an FDA drug researcher? Please.

First of all, Canada does have 8mg codeine over the counter, as do other countries. Not everyone lives in the USA. What a ridiculous assumption on your part.

You 'bet' I don't want to go to the gynecologist because 'they will tell you that there is NO reason for you to need opiates'?

if you really must know, (and I already said I didn't want to discuss it, but since you pushed the issue so rudely), I have experienced sexual trauma and am currently experiencing PTSD as a result. I'm terrified of anything even remotely related to sex, the idea of going to a gynecologist is one of the most upsetting things I can mentaly imagine doing.

I'd rather take the 3 days in bed.

Answer 1

r r....let me get right to the point. First,I am not a medical professional,OK? Second...although I have been to Canada several times I am not very familiar with your country's medical system.

What I can tell you is that (again...this is in the US) the wives of 3 of my friends...actually they are my friends too..had menstrual cramps so sever that they did approach their primary care doctor about being prescribed a narcotic/opiate pain killer. In 2 of the cases their doctors had no hesitation is writing them an effective pain killer. I know one was prescribed Fiorinal with codeine (it is a combination of butalbital and Tylenol #3). It is the the same drug I use to manage the pain of the migraines I get; that might give you an idea of how effective that drug is.

My opinion....go for it. If I recall, isn't medical care free....well, paid or by taxes? So the most you'll be out is the time involved?

Oh...and you're right; BMAC is a jerk. Even I knew low strength of codeine was OTC in Canada so a real FDA researcher would have known that.

Answer 2

First of all I am 40 years old, I have had the same problems you have described, and no unfortunately the Doctor did not want to prescribe narcotics!! You said you experienced a sexual trauma, I am so sorry for your suffering, maybe part of your pain might stem from that trauma? Also, you might be experiencing endometriosis, I was recently diagnosed w/it, mine so far seems to be around my lower abdomen, rather than around my uterus!! If there is any way you could steer clear of the narcotics please try, addiction to narcotics knows no boundaries, the euphoric feeling that comes along w/taking these pills is hard to resist!! Not sure why you choose not to take Birth Control pills, but I have to agree, so many damaging side effects!! I do know one way that I have lessoned my cramps, of course some people will say it is gross, but hay I am married, and I do have 2 bathrooms, but I have sex!! It does work!!

Answer 3

There are alot of different drugs for menstual cramps. The doctor's really don't like prescribing narcotics ex. Lortab,Vicodin, or anything with Codine or addictive. There are so many people who abuse these. You really need to find out what is going on, why the cramps are so severe, they only want to give narcotics if it will be temporary. Hope this helps. Good luck and God Bless.

Answer 4

If you consider trying natural approach

Try Magnesium supplementation, 250 -300 mg formula, when cramps starts. 2/day
Vitamin E, 400 IU/day - during the cramps.

As the preventive measurement:

Take Cal/Mg ( 2:1) on a daily basis. ( 1/day)
Vitamin C with bioflavonoids, 500mg - 3/day.
Flax seed oil/ground - 1 tbs/day

Answer 5

Codeine Period Pain

Answer 6

Perhaps your menstral cycle is stirring up your PTSD. You may do better seeing a psychologist/ psychiatrist to help with your pain.

Answer 7

i have to agree with the first poster, for the most part.

of course i realize you must not be a us citizen. canada does indeed sell codiene OTC, as i imagine most of the world does. codiene has a bad effect on the digestive tract. stomach aches? it should be used rarely.

Answer 8

No. If you can see your regular doctor, then of COURSE you can see a gynecologist for this problem. I bet you don't want to go to the gynecologist because they will tell you that there is NO reason for you to need opiates. If you are REALLY in so much pain, then go to the ER. They'll have the gynecologist on call come down and see you/exam you.

And over-the-counter Tylenol does NOT contain codeine.