One of the hardest opiate withdrawal symptoms to deal with is lack of energy, or better said, EXTREME FATIGUE. Whether you’re in the acute or post-acute opiate withdrawal phase, getting energy can feel impossible.
Many people have suffered from this debilitating shortage of energy for days, weeks, and even months after stopping the use of opiates. I’ve also experienced this feeling.
During the acute opiate withdrawal phase I remember laying on the couch for days, and I was barely able to get up and go to the bathroom.
Then for weeks afterwards I was still very tired and sore. I just couldn’t get motivated or energized to do anything!
Note: Luckily, after years of researching opiate withdrawal and recovery, I’ve come up with some very effective ways for regaining natural energy.
How To Get Energy During Opiate Withdrawal
If you really want to know how to get energy during opiate withdrawal, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND taking natural supplements. There are certain amino acids, herbs, roots and other supplements that can significantly help you regain energy during opiate withdrawal.
My favorite supplements for getting immediate energy during opiate withdrawal are:
- Nitro Xtreme – A proprietary blend of noni concentrate, which is clinically proven to increase nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide = increased natural energy.
- Sunrise – A liquid superfood drink with a unique and powerful blend of antioxidants and adaptogens.
- DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) – A combination amino acid supplement that can help you produce dopamine, norepinephrine (noradrenaline), epinephrine (adrenaline), and endorphins.
- Mucuna Pruriens
– A tropical legume that has the above benefits of L-Tyrosine, while also containing minor amounts of serotonin, 5-HTP, and nicotine.
– A tropical legume that has the above benefits of L-Tyrosine, while also containing minor amounts of serotonin, 5-HTP, and nicotine.
Note: Taking all four of these together will provide you with the most benefits, however, taking even one by itself can help. Don’t get too excited though. While these supplements can help, opiate withdrawal fatigue is no joke. The supplements can provide you with mental and physical energy, but you’ll likely still be tired. However, once you’re past the acute opiate withdrawal phase you should start regaining your energy quickly if you continue to use these supplements.
How To Regain Energy After Quitting Opiates
Normally, someone quitting opiates can expect to suffer from a lack of energy for days, weeks, or even months in extreme cases. Many individuals have to work and/or take care of kids in addition to other responsibilities. The extreme fatigue from quitting opiates can be a major contributor to people getting back on opiates before their bodies recover.
Often they can’t just stop going to work and taking care of children because they don’t feel good. Thus, it can be easy to start using again…and the cycle continues.
What if I told you that there was a natural way to get energy back after quitting opiates? Would that interest you?
I’ve developed an incredibly powerful strategy for regaining energy after opiate withdrawal. It focuses heavily on the use of “adaptogens”, which are special herbs that help your body adapt to stress and resist fatigue. Below is a picture of ginseng root, which is the most well-known adaptogen.
Here are some amazing benefits for you to review, Adaptogens:
- Improve the health of your adrenal system.
- Help strengthen the body’s response to stress.
- Enhance the body’s ability to cope with anxiety and fight fatigue.
- Calm you down and boost your energy at the same time without over stimulating.
- Normalize body imbalances.
Note: Adaptogens promote the facilitation of homeostasis in the body. They’re called adaptogens because of their unique ability to “adapt” their function according to your body’s specific needs. Though the effects may initially be subtle and take time to make themselves felt, they’re real and undeniable.
*Adaptogens work a bit like a thermostat. When the thermostat senses that the room temperature is too high it brings it down; when the temperature is too low it brings it up.
My Supreme Elixir Of Energy
I’ve put together an incredible formula that can be used to get energy back after opiate withdrawal. This elixir is a combination of my favorite adaptogens and products on the market.
If you take this Supreme Elixir Of Energy exactly as outlined, you should be well on your way to regaining energy after coming off opiates.
The Supreme Elixir of Energy is made up of:
Directions: First thing in the morning on an empty stomach, mix a glass of 12 ounces water with 20 drops of Nitro Xtreme (part of Triangle), 1 ounce of Sunrise (part of Triangle), and 1 Tbs. maca powder. Mix with a spoon and consume, while also taking 1,000 – 2,000 mg of DLPA and two capsules of Keter Wellness Mucuna Pruriens. In the afternoon, take 20 drops of Nitro Xtreme. In the evening, take 20 drops of Nitro Xtreme just before dinner, then 3 soft gels of Sunset (part of Triangle) right after dinner.
How To Get Energy Back After Opiate Withdrawal Questions
I love answering questions and concerns about the protocols I develop. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to post them in the comment box below. I’m very happy and eager to help in any way I can.
Supplements for coming off opiates are my specialty. Click here now to view my best home detox program.
This adaptogenic formula really can give you energy, happiness and reduced cravings after quitting opiates. Good luck on your journey now that you know how to get energy back after opiate withdrawal!
Question. I’ve been on and off Percocet for 6 years and Suboxone for 2, at first it was due to arthritis and when Drs prescribed pain pills I didn’t have an addiction to them I didn’t even take daily. Fast forward to 2 child births and 2 surgeries later and I’ve gone back and fourth between Percocet (some prescribed most not and Suboxone, not prescribed) I’ve never had medical assistance but know I have built a dependence to either for mostly the energy. Been off opiates for almost 3 months now just using suboxone but HATE being dependent on it to live normal day life with my kids. Would your recommended supplements help with the kids energy and what’s your recommendation on how you should take these supplements?
Sorry not kids energy, daily normal life energy I meant
How long? *** jeez I gotta get it together with proof reading
How long? *** jeez sorry
So I get that the PAWS and the lack of energy and motivation lasts for months at times, but what about years? I have not used in almost 4 years, but I still suffer with fatigue, and difficulty feeling that energy and feeling of being fully “alive”- motivation for life. However I am on suboxone still after all these years. Have weaned myself to 1mg and really struggling to taper lower now. Is that the reason or is it possible that opiate addiction can cause permanent damage..endorphin /dopamine deficiency perhaps? I even read somewhere once that theres evidence suggestive of a large number of opiate addicts having had endorphin deficiencies prior to their addiction. Im at a loss for how to feel normal again and I now understand why relapse can still occur even years after quitting.
Yes, it’s common for people to still feel bad that long after. It means that you need the right nutrition, exercise, supplementation, sleep, hydration, etc. I’m going to post a link to an article that will show you all of the best ways you can start to feel better soon. Please read this:
How To Stop Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome>>
Hi i have Detoxed completly off of Subutex They Energy isn’t the worst thing tho.. I have been off since oct 3 But i Can Not shake this Heading spinning this almost This I got high for the very first time and the head buzz won’t go away and it’s more intense any suggestion
Hey, I have been on Methadone for 2 years and tapered off and I am 1 month off methadone currently but I am just having such an awful time with being able to get up and do anything. It’s so difficult for me to just go to the bathroom along with taking care of my 1 year old son. I feel like I have no energy, no motivation, the feeling of physically having to push myself to the max just to get up off the couch.
I want to feel the way I felt before I was dependent on opiates. What can I do? Is there anything that can help me?
Hey matt
Having a bad time now. Ive been on op for 4yrs trying to stop by using subs but lately when i go on subs i get bad anxiety cant focus very upset. I have allot of apts starting tomorrow and my sleep pattern is all screwed up. If i go back on the op i end up staying up all night and i lose time on stupid stuff. Idk what to do. I know by time you read this i will probably have miss court at 830am an hour away. Man im screwed.
I took sub for 8.5 years. You must stop. They are the devil. I have used Kratom for withdrawals and for a little “buzz” I guess. And now I am working on kicking the sub. The fatigue is hard. I feel like the Suboxone zapped my brain and wasted almost a decade of my life. I felt like a zombie with little emotion or motivation. I really wish I had stopped sooner. I quit 11/6/16 and still struggle with the affects of taking them for so long but if I could do it I promise you can. Good luck.
I so know what you are saying I’ve been on pain pills for 13yrs . On sub for a yr then naltrexone for one day worst withdraws ever. then cymbalta 3 day had a headache and hurt so bad can’t get out of bed. I don’t know what to do.
I’m a 44 year old lady and I’ve been in this battle for 20+ yrs. I’ve done it all subs being the worst for me. Got off those just to go back to H! The first time I purely got off this crap in my mid twenties it took me a month to walk a full city block and it almost killed me. There is nothing for this but time. I’m two weeks in again pulling at my hair wanting to work, clean my home , cook for my family, just be an useful engine, but reality is I can’t and I won’t. By no means am I telling anyone what to do but “Responsibilities “ kept me going back over and over and over and over……. you get it.. I even had a friend spend 2 years in a rehab just to come out to take suboxone. I can’t anymore I just freakin can’t . I hate the idea of feeling this way for months or years but the idea of using again is much worse. To me suboxone was gonna be a life time commitment.
Hi Matt,
What can I do to get rid of these body aches all over my body? I am 2 months off of opiates (oxycodone) and everyday I have body pain. It feels like the flu with malaise, feeling inflamed all over along with stuffed nose, sneezing and a tickle in my throat. Everyday since quitting this has happened! I get to a point where I feel like giving up and downing some Kratom!!!! But my doctor says that will just open up a whole other problem for me…. I have my original horrible back/leg pain issues along with the opiate residual crap going on
Hi Jessica,
Check out these two articles okay? They will show you how to feel much better fast:
How To Stop Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome From Opiates>>
Non-Opioid Painkillers THAT WORK>>
I quit using Suboxone April 13, 2018 and here I am still having motivation and energy problems; mostly in the mornings. I’m prescribed Gabapentin (for pain, which works very well) 300mg and was taking it first thing of a morning. However I stopped taking it in the morning time because after about 5 hours it made me wanna go to sleep. I now take it at bed time as it helps me sleep very deep and I feel more energetic the next day. Now there are some people who state that there is a detox associated with taking Gabapentin. I however believe that this is because people do abuse it and overtake the amount needed to be effective. I’ve had zero issues with any detox symptoms; everyone’s bodies are different. One last thing to keep in mind is that our Gaba-receptors are still messed up at this point and it takes time for them to rebound. I have found that going for walks and doing exercises has helped with increasing my energy levels too. I myself am on the Vivitrol Shot because having many failed attempts has proven to me that my hope for the best outcome called for it and I’m glad I’m on it. Just gotta remember the saying “We didn’t get this way overnight, it’s not going to become better or change overnight”. Always remind yourself what being dope sick feels like! It could ALWAYS be worse; you could be extremely dope sick! Whenever I think about that situation it helps me carry-on because being dope sick is a way worse energy level situation and I then realize my energy has improved and it’s not so bad. Good Luck
Hi Matt,
I have come down off of high doses of oxy and am on week 6 since my last pills. My doctor quit suddenly and so I weaned myself and haven’t had any supplements or help in this time. I didn’t abuse my medications, and was told I wouldn’t have heavy withdrawals if I took my medications as directed. Liars.
I can’t do a lot of exercise because of chronic pain issues, and I can’t do enough cardio to raise my heart-rate. That makes even walking enough to do any good, difficult. I don’t know what to do to gain the energy I need to function.
Anyway, I think I’m over the worst parts, but am still having really strong sweats, insomnia, and the severe fatigue. I also am having severe sinus issues, that could be unrelated? I’m unsure and can’t find anything suggesting it’s part of it. I haven’t been able to find another doctor, yet…so, I’m seeking ways to get back on my feet at least, now.
Are the 4 supplements listed above, the ones you’d recommend for this late stage in my recovery?
Thank you!
Hi Shana,
I’m sorry you’re having to go through this awful situation. Yes, the sinus issues are probably related, as that is common. Right now you’re going through post-acute withdrawal. To feel your best fast, I would recommend taking the supplements mentioned in this article in combination with the many other strategies in the following article:
How To Stop Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome From Opiates>>
The article above will shed a lot of light on what you’re going through, and it will give you an action plan to get better quickly. If you have any additional questions moving forward, I’m more than happy to assist.
I have been on Morphine er. 30 mg. 2 x daily. With oxycodone 15 mg. With stronger prescription drugs over the last 22 yrs. I got clean. But couldnt get out of bed. For 3 months literally. I had to go back on them to function. Do you think you can help me. I want to get off tthem again. Melissa
Hi Melissa,
I designed this website to help any person get off opioid drugs without feeling too bad, and this article specifically has a protocol that can help get your energy back fast. Is there anything else you need help with that I can assist you with?
Idk if I’m too late for your site but im 23 and day 10 cold turkey not using heroin ( by needle for 5 years ) and meth ( smoking for 2 years ) my doctor gave me baclophen
Clonodime
Clonzepam and that when I was still having panic attacks he gave me larazpam ans padxil. I come from a cess pool of chemical imbalance..I only get like 2 hours asleep
I don’t feel
Good and I’m restless ..can’t control a body temp still…. stomach cramping what do I do
Hi Charis it sounds like you could really benefit from checking out my natural health plan to heal from chemical imbalance. I’m going to post a link to an article I believe will really help you out:
How To Stop Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome From Opiates>>
I have been on Morphine er. 30 mg. 2 x daily. With oxycodone 15 mg. With stronger prescription drugs over the last 22 yrs. I got clean. But couldnt get out of bed. For 3 months literally. I had to go back on them to function. Do you think you can help me. I want to get off tthem again. Melissa
I have been on methadone for a couple months n i kinda feel ok its jus my lack of energy n the cold sweat icky feeling i hate what can i buy over the counter to help with my energy my doc gave me clonodine .1mg it helps a lil with the cold sweaty icky feeling but i ran out of those what can i buy to help me with it
Hi Sharon,
The things I wrote about in the article are the best I’ve found for helping with energy.
I have been on oxy 15mg for 10 months due to back injuries and finally had surgery. Of course someone visiting stole my pills and left me with nothing and going through detox along with surgical pain is not fun. My dr cannot do anything due to laws and issue me any more pills. I had some tramadol which I took to help a bit but now finished those also. I now have no pain pills at all and all I have are cold and hot sweats, body pains, always exhausted but have to work but can’t and I also have ms so I need help with getting me past this phase so I can get back to my normal self and was hoping for some advice.
Anonymous,
Sorry that you are going through this. Pain Pills are probably the number 2 items stolen, only behind money.
In situations like yours, many have benefited using Kratom or by megadosing Loperamide (Immodium-the generic form is fine and cheaper). Loperamide is actually an opiate, it just works differently in your body. I’ve talked with many who have used this to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. It works on all symptoms, not just stomach issues. Stay hydrated! Dehydration makes withdrawal symptoms much worse. Using sports drinks like gatorade or powerade are good because they also provide much needed electrolytes. I would ask my Dr for a medicine called Clonidine, which is actually a blood pressure medicine but is often prescribed for someone who is going through opiate withdrawal. It helps with many of the symptoms like anxiety, rls and insomnia. If your Dr will prescribe gabapentin (Neurontin) or pregabalin (Lyrica), these two are extremely beneficial for fighting almost all symptoms of opiate withdrawal. Another OTC medicine that can be helpful for many is Benadryl. It can help with the sneezing and runny nose, but also with sleep. However, for some it can increase RLS, so if you notice more severe cramping or spasms, it may be the Benadryl. If RLS is one of the problems that you have, Hyland’s makes a product called Restful Legs that is very good.
Another option, if you have a good relationship with your Dr, is to ask for a prescription of Butrans. This is a patch that lasts for 7 days and is prescribed for pain. The active ingredient in Butrans is Buprenorphine. This is the same medicine that is in the products prescribed for opiate addiction to fight withdrawal and cravings. However, the amount of Buprenorphine in Butrans in much lower than the amount in Suboxone, Subutex, Zubsolv, Bunavail. Even though the dose is much smaller, it can still be very effective. Some Drs Will write this when a patient has lost the meds they were on, to get them through until the next appointment.
Good Luck and keep busy, as much as possible. Exercising, even if you dont feel like it, will help by providing endorphins. Eat healthy and stop any excess sugar and caffeine. These can make symptoms worse.
~Mary
OAS RECOVERY SPECIALIST
*Disclaimer: This should not be considered medical advice. Please talk with your Dr before starting any new medications or supplements, any diet changes or beginning an exercise regime.
My wife was taking 10/325 Vicodin for about a year and a half at worst about 12 a day. She recently started on 8mg suboxone once a day. She has zero energy the vics gave her energy. Will thsee supplements help her while on subs?
Topdog63,
I also had zero energy on suboxone, along with many other issues. I had become apathetic; having no emotions about anything-no happy, sad, loving, (etc) feelings towards ANYTHING! I also felt no motivation. Going from the bed to the couch was about all I did; with only necessary trips to the restroom ! Showering was like a chore and sex….well I almost forgot what that was! ? My Dr put me on welbutrin when I told him of my feelings. He said it would help and give me energy (it didn’t work). He tried others too but….NOPE!…still sitting on the couch! I felt like this for months! I had begun researching though after I found many others who felt the same. I related to the feelings of one who is lacking dopamine and serotonin. I started with dlpa for dopamine and 5htp for serotonin, slowly increasing my dose of dlpa. I also added mucuna prurient (another dopamine builder ). After about 3 weeks or so, I began feeling more energy and noticed that my emotions were returning. I know 3 weeks sounds like a long time, especially for an addicted person bc we are so used to seeking instant gratification. However, it can take a bit of time and it took a while before I realized that my own diet was hindering the production of these brain chemicals. Reality is that there are inhibitors (things that keep something from working) and other nutrients that are cofactors (needed to do a job) to their production. Getting rid of sugary soft drink and other excess sugars was a huge help. Also, adding plenty of
protein was important. A good multivitamin should provide the necessary b vitamins and others needed to produce dopamine. Something that I asked my Dr to do then really helped tremendously. I had finally understood HOW welbutrin (an anti depressant) worked. It takes the dopamine in your brain and helps DISTRIBUTE it to its receptors. So of course it wasnt working before bc of the LACK of dopamine. Once I had been taking a dopamine builder for a couple weeks (or so) adding the welbutrin finally did work like it is supposed to. This was my experience and I came out of it with the help of suoplements. I want to add that I finally found motivation to reduce my dose. Going from 8mg to 4mg helped me tio. Suboxone is a LOT stronger than most realize, and an 8mg dose may very well be much too high. Many who took higher amounts of opiates than your wife, can take 2 to 4 MG and it work just fine.
~Mary
OAS RECOVERY SPECIALIST
Hello, I am a 50 yr old female that as be addicted for 10 yrs. Hopping from methadone back to norcros, hydro’s and pretty much any opioid I could get my hands on. I just got married to a wonderful man that has never been in a addict of any kind. Two years ago about 3 months after I met him we moved in together. I was honest with him about the horrible situation that I have gotten myself into. I have an MRI that shows I have several things wrong with my cervical spine and I stay in pain all the time, but I was so tired to chasing the stuff that I decided to go cold turkey. It was during the winter so I informed him what is gonna be happening during my withdrawal and how sick I’m was gonna be. While I layed in be going through the worst wd you good possibility go through he waited on me hand and foot. If he wasn’t at work he would sit at the dinning room table a be putting puzzles together. I went through wd for 4 weeks and never got better. No energy, not even wanting to get up to take a shower. I couldn’t do it… I relapsed and started doing methadone since it was so easy for me to get because my brother was a heroin addict and he got into a clinic so he would sell me some so I wouldn’t be sick. After another year of doing methadone at 40mg per day I again decided I’m tired of doing this. I got online and I found a doctor about a mile from my house that prescribes Suboxone. I was so happy I made an appointment with him. I started on the Suboxone 4weeks ago taking 2 8 mg films a day. He told me that I would probably be on it for the rest of my life. He also said he doesn’t ween you of you have to do that yourself. So I did I no longer need the Sub I have not had any in 5 days and I feel like I did before I started taking opiates 10 years ago. I have energy and and I feel so good to be off of the devil drugs. I still have pain in my neck but I am going to be getting injections and I will do anything but I will never go back to that life of chasing pills. I was scared that my body was forever messed up due to the pills. Go bless everyone that has this horrible addiction. There is hope…never give up. I’m so glad I didn’t. I have my life back!!! Yayyy!!!
So happy for you, live and treasure your husband who didn’t judge just loved you back to life.
Hi Matt,
Thank you for your site. I’ve learned a lot here.
I’m prescribed quite a bit of pain medication (Tramadol ER, Percocet and Oxycontin, all taken daily) plus Neurontin, all for legit pain. The problem is that I’d like to replace the opiates with natural pain killers if it’s at all possible, because the prescription meds just make me miss so much of life. I know for a fact that I’m physically dependent.. when I run out early (which I do, as sometimes I have to take one or two more on a bad day, which causes an end-of-month deficit) I almost immediately start going into withdrawals.
So.. I’d like to find some *natural* painkillers that I can take as much as needed – or not, if I don’t need them! And if I don’t have to take them, I won’t immediately start into withdrawals.
I’ve been doing a ton of research into natural painkillers and anti-inflammatories (I’m allergic to prescription anti-inflammatories, so can’t take them). Do you know of any?
Here’s my list so far:
Gaba, especially when paired with Phenibut (also great for anti-anxiety) (My Neurontin is essentially Gabapentin, and it makes me feel extremely drunk, so I don’t take much)
Agmatine Sulfate (see below)
Kratom
Cissus Quadrangularis Extract
Sam-E (especially for osteoarthritis, also helps with moods)
MSM (specifically OptiMSM as that is made in the US and not in China, you can get a big thing of it on Amazon) (also for inflammation)
Also: Agmatine Sulfate is supposed to help lower opioid tolerance and help with withdrawal symptoms. Have you heard of this? So if you take this, over time it supposedly lowers tolerance so you can cut down on the amount you take slowly. The opiate will keep working well, then you can do the taper better and it will help when you cut them out entirely. It also helps with pain, and is synergistic with Bupropion (Wellbutrin), Medical Cannabis, Phenibut and Kratom. (I have not tried kratom yet – it’s high on my list to try but I’m very wary of the potential for dependence since that’s what I’m trying to get away from).
Taking Theacrine or L-Theanine with Caffeine can help with the brain fog during taper and withdrawals as well.
I want off these things. The pain killing effect is awesome and has allowed me to function somewhat normally, but my poor body goes through such hell, and I’m worried about when I do go off of them (so I’d rather do it sooner rather than later before it gets any worse). With the amount of pain I’m in it’s possible I’d never get off, which is a bit depressing. I guess that should alleviate my worry about the withdrawals because it may never happen, but somehow it doesn’t.. I just don’t feel like myself anymore, and I liked my former self better. I think my kids did, too.
Any thoughts or ideas would be appreciated. Thank you in advance!
P.S. Do you warn people about taking Phenibut daily? It can cause some nasty withdrawals if you take it more than once or twice a week.. but I guess if only taken for a few days in the beginning of cold-turkey quitting it shouldn’t be too bad. I’d definitely put up a warning for if someone wanted to continue to take it, though. It’s great stuff but needs to be respected, just like all of these supplements. Thanks again for the wealth of knowledge here on your site!
“Gaba, especially when paired with Phenibut (also great for anti-anxiety) (My Neurontin is essentially Gabapentin, and it makes me feel extremely drunk, so I don’t take much)
Agmatine Sulfate (see below)
Kratom!!!!!!!!!???!!!!! Kratom is much much much worse than any opiate/opiod out there. It’s legal so it’s easy to get. After using i once you will think there is nothing oxycontins and lortbabs. Please stay away from this one. This one is a MAJOR Life ruiner. Please take it from me
Cissus Quadrangularis Extract
Sam-E (especially for osteoarthritis, also helps with moods)
MSM (specifically OptiMSM as that is made in the US and not in China, you can get a big thing of it on Amazon) (also for inflammation)
Try kratom start out taking 5 pills every 4 hours and stay on this for about 2 weeks Kratom is a lot easier to taper than opiates yes Kratom is addictive too knowing that it will help you dramatically it literally cures everything of withdrawal worked full-time 50 hours a week and got up Oxycotin 70 milligrams a day it takes about a month to get through the process any Kratom or Oxys or opiates throw them all down the toilet whatever you do don’t do Suboxone Suboxone is worse than anything it will change you it’ll turn you into a drone it is horrible it is a gorilla to get off of compared to the monkey we were on phenibut is worse than kratom you need to take Kratom to get off it and the side effects and withdrawals that are pretty bad but Matt energy supplements work great and you’ll need those for your last few months I’ve been clean for 6 months doing great I will never touch you up yet again even if I break both of my legs
Engery supplements ?
Donna,
Dopamine producing supplements are recommended for boosting energy after opiate withdrawal. These supplements help produce dopamine: dlpa, l-tyrosine, l-dopa & mucuna pruriens. Taking a good multi is also recommended. For best results make sure it includes magnesium, zinc, selenium, b vitamins and iodine. These help produce dopamine, heal brain damage and heal endocrine problems associated with opiate use.
For quicker results, you can try ginseng or white strains of kratom. There are plenty nootropic supplements that provide both mental and physical energy, when used responsibly. Check out these: Adrafinil, Noopept or Oxiracetam.
~Mary
OAS RECOVERY SPECIALIST
*Disclaimer- any mention of supplements are for examples only and not intended as medical advice. Please seek medical advice before beginning any new supplement.
Hi my name is Alicia Barnett..I’ve currenly being using opiates for bout 4 years now..I take 3perks morning 3 at night…I’m also 3 months pregrant …i really would love an need ur advice…as to what over the counter meds. I can get to help ease the. withdrawal symtoms…I wish I didn’t have to feel anything but any thing u can recommend that’s inexpensive would be great…I love what u do an once I get over this temporary hump n life i plan to ba drug abuse helper as well …certified nursing assistant now 6 years n 9 months left for physical therapy associates degree but the epidemic now days I’d rather help peOple because I kno the struggle …please reach back out to me please please id really apprciate your of opinion an recommendations. Thanks so much hope to here from u soon!!!
Hi Alicia I just saw your message on Facebook and have responded there. 🙂
Hi Matt. Firstly let me thank you for taking the time and consideration to offer your help to us guys. People like you are an inspiration and are vital for us recovering addicts.
Well I have just come out of detox on the back of a 13 year methadone prescription, was using heroin on top too and its 20 years since I started with that. The detox was hard but I got through it but I’m afraid I’m not in the position to be able to go on to rehab with family responsibilities. So reading your article has given me hope in the face of extreme lack of motivation and energy. I knew this would happen but wasn’t quite prepared.
I’m in the UK so will seek out everything on the list if I can. Should I seek any one ingredient in particular if I struggle to get them here?
Again, thank you so much. X
Dear Matt,
I am a 22 year old living with chronic pain from a car accident over a year ago. I had surgery and have received cortisone shots which have, in tandem, helped me live more normally. I was prescribed codeine with Tylenol for the first months as well as given light muscle relaxers. Before the surgery, I was fine taking those things for the most part. It’s been over a year since the surgery and I’ve been prescribed 2 10mg norco and 2 350mg soma a day for the last 8 months, roughly. My tolerance shot up at one point to where taking 1 norco didn’t do the trick in the morning, so I stopped taking it for 5 agonizing days. When I went back, my tolerance was somehow seemingly lowered again to where taking my normal dosage was fine. For the last three months, I’ve been taking 2-3 norco a day (no breaks) and soma at night (no dependence on the soma whatsoever). Today marks day 2 of no norco and I’m feeling sick, so damn sick. I dragged myself to the store, took the 30ml of imodium recommended on the bottle and by opiate wd forums all over the Internet at roughly 11pm tonight. I’m feeling somewhat better, to be honest. I know my habit wasn’t extreme, there will be people reading this thinking how whiney I must sound, but I’m feeling what I’m feeling, you know? I’m 5’3″ and weigh 108lbs, I’m not your average size woman. I hope this exhaustion and lack of energy, not to mention severe depression, will end soon. I have the means and schedule to purchase any concoction you may recommend. I should also add that I’ve never had any problems with psychological addiction, this is merely a problem with tolerance and physical dependence.
You feel how you feel. I’m a 29 year old software engineer that had 3 hip surgeries, one where there break your femur and literally take a hack saw to your joint. Inside my labrum had turned to bone and I had the arthritis of a 90 year old. As a former collegiate athlete I found myself in what would drag on to be over a decade of chronic pain.
I was stabqlized on 45mg of oxy instants and 60 mg OxyContin (extended) daily. Then I went through the needed an extra few pills go through shock withdrawal thing and decided to buy something to cover off the internet. Which led me the Fentanyl. For those of you that don’t know what it is, it’s 100 more potent than heroin without the euphoria. But as a chronic pain patient who gives a fuck about euphoria. We just want pain relief. Rule 1, don’t touch this shit ever. EVER. I may seem like an idiot for doing what I did, but I’m also one of the few people that was strong enough to realize that after three months I had to get off cold turkey or I’d die.
So, I rolled off onto 1000mg of oxy a day (luckily I make a lot of money) for 2 weeks and the did Ibogaine Treatment. Please look it up. It got me off that absurd dose without any acute withdrawal. The PAWS and energy and serotonin are all shot, but there’s no way around that. I’m going to try these remedies to accelerate the process.
My point in responding to this particular post is that we were on polar opposite ends of the habit size spectrum. What you were taking would have felt like Tylenol to me and what I was taking would have killed 99.9% of the population including opiate addicts.
Yet, there is a universal truth that you can’t know how I feel and I can’t know how you feel. We coming the closest to being able to understand each other because we have experienced rap chronic pain. And that’s no joke. Most days it makes life not worth living.
My point here is that it doesn’t really matter about the size of the habit or comparing injuries or pain scales or lengths of time. We’re all stuck in a sinking boat. After finding no help for my condition in western medicine (world’s 3 top hip surgeons + 3 weeks at the Mayo Clinic), I set off to find my own solutions to my pain. And I did. For me it was Neuro Muscular Retraining done by the smartest two people I’ve ever met in Marin California. Jocelyn Olicer invented a significant scientific advancement in how we understand the way muscles related to one another. That was my cure, tucked away in a tiny innocent looking office. Just because western medicine doesn’t know what to do with you doesn’t mean there’s a cure. You don’t have to give in and accept that what you feel is your reality. Go find a solution. Look outside the walls society has placed around you. Research Ibogaine therapy. It’s not hard to see why big pharma crushed it back in the 90’s despite it having a success rate 5 times higher than anything in western medicine. They make 30+ Billion with a B selling oxy and methadone and suboxone. If you’re in chronic pain that means you don’t fit in Americas definition of medicine. So accept that. But don’t let them tell you you have to accept your condition. Go find your own solution. Make it up. Do what you have to do. But I know what it’s like to live in chronic pain and it’s no life worth resigning yourself too and while oxy and shit works, it has a shelf life. It’s a house of cards and when it comes down it rips your life apart.
Hey..Matt
I..am..37…days…free..from…a..17..yr..addiction…problem..mainly..smoking.;..pure..cocaine..and..only..one..and..half….year..using..heroin..about..a..gram..a.day..and..90..ml…methadone…and…feel..horrific….so..chronically..bored..of..everything..and..physically..shattered..yet..restless.and..frustrated..all..night..long
I…have…been..told..i.may..have..ADHD..but..its..hard..to..know..as..i..read..the..symptoms..are.very..similar..to..that..of…opiate..PAWS.
Ive..just..ordered..5HTP,Tyrosine..and..DLPA…do…you..think..they..will..really..work…i..need..some..energy..and..joy..of..life..or..i..fear..il..be…going..backwards.
I..cant..afford…75..dollars..for..liquid..ginseng..as..ive..just..spent..80..dollars..on..
SOLGAR..brand…of..the..3..i..listed..above…any..other..reccomedations..of..ginseng?…how..essential..is..it..
Also…any..other..recommendations,..i..notice..other..names..in..some..of..you..comments..but..they..are.not..on..the..list
thanks..so.much..for..your..advice
Sammy I hear ya and congrats on getting those supplements. They sure worked for me! Here is another article that I highly recommend to answer your question and it relates to what you’re going through. Hang in there!
How To Stop Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome From Opiates
Dear Matt-
To everyone, thank-you for the inspiring comments and dreaded opiod dependance issues as these go so FAR for someone such as I!!!!!
Firstly, I’m 18 years post back fussion surgery where I was prescribed Vicodin and never got hooked on that after about a 12 month usage schedule..
Now, in 2008 I had to follow-up with my neurosurgeon because of intense back pain rolling over to high blood pressure, I was prescribed Percocet 7.5mg to be taken twice daily. I took them as prescribed for approx. 1-2 weeks when I began to really like the calming effect these had on myself, although I’d just take 1-2 of these recreationally on Saturdays until my prescription finally ran out! I was scared but I didn’t want to go back to my neurosurgeon because my pain was essentially gone..
What did I do you ask? Well, I switched my family doctor, took in my empty pill bottle and she prescribed these to me without question because of my prior surgery and I was still prescribed Percocet 7.5mg’s twice daily however this go around, I wanted to take them daily in which I did because I knew I could always get more of them from my next appointment.. Much to my dismay, I lasted approx. 4-5 years with taking these as prescribed though towards the 5th year mark, I began taking more than prescribed. At that time, my family doctor advised me to see a pain care clinic in which I did though really not in the worse pains, just liked the effect of the drug!
Now, I’ve been seeing a pain care doctor for over 1.5 years now which has doubled my prescription to Percocet 7.5mg (4) times daily.. Not only do I take these but I still run out before my next prescription is due one month later!
Matt, I come to you now as my wife knows I take these but I feel I’m dishonest about these in whole because I tell her the pain is so severe without the medicine and she tells me I should take it but the pain IS NOT severe and I’ve still worked all of this time with no issues encountered although my leave has been cut in half as I miss work so much when I used to never miss work at all. For the past 2-3 months, I’ve so so wanted to quit these opioids and get my life back on track! Last month, I’d went 11 days and got right back on them as this month I’m 5 days clean begging for help because I, like so many have to work in which I am but during work, I’ve never took nor had the desire to take this medicine! It’s just when I get home when I want to take the medicine for the euphoria/calming effect it has! I take these on the weekends as well!
During all of this, I’ve spent money so erratically, practically went through a divorce when I’d stopped in 2013 for 2 months and why I went back on them blows me away in the first place but I just want my life back as I have a great job, wife and young children that needs as well as deserves a good husband/father that’s not always numb to the real world/reality! I just feel the only time I take them is when I’m around crowds or being around the people I love so dearly! I don’t understand why but it’s the very truth! During these past 5 days, I’ve slept great, wake up on time as well but I’ve had terrible trips to the bathroom and now when I get home, I just want to sit down in the recliner and I fall asleep where I’m normally already high! Matt, when will this sickening feeling go away as I know I can defeat the physical downer but it’s the mind begging for the pills that scares me where I KNOW I do not need these to be laughing with my loved ones or all of the people I’ve hurt along this terrible secret of my life!! I sincerely ask for a prompt response please?? Thanks!!
My favorite anti-craving remedy is exercise! Also, this supplement really helped me stop cravings a ton:
DLPA: A Miracle Supplement For Opiate Addiction Recovery
It’s been 6 months since i flushd my norx down the toilet.I am a railworker i climb trains all day & i gotta tell you i have absolutely no energy?I have been dreaming about relapse hahaha.I know its not a laughing matter but i am in a dark place.I joke to hide my pain.I cant believe i fell into this trap.I am so close to getting a bottle of moonshine or a bag of speed to just snap out of this haze im in.I really want to stay sober i am extreme all it will take is that frst drink or hit or bump or pill & im off to the races.Like i said its been 6 months no norco 10’s xanaxs.6 yrs no weed due to anxiety & 3yrs no alcohol or meth.Im so sick of feelng tired.Im contemplating relapse to get me going again.A partner at work told me with precription addiction it can take a yr or so to feel normal again.Im over this tired run down feeling.Im better thn this.The natural remedy list above is too long.im not gunna take all that stuff.It seems rediculios to jave to buy and take all that stuff.I feel im border line depressed.Im a better person clean.I dont wanna revisit the garage days.I just hate this being tired everyday all day.Im burned out on meetings.I wanna feel better.eegghh!!
Man, so sorry to hear that it has been 6 months and you feel this bad. Anyways, I know this a lot of supplements, but perhaps you would benefit from taking less. Talk to your healthcare provider about DLPA. It’s a combination amino acid supplement that increase dopamine and endorphins, the two primary neurotransmitters that become deficient after coming off opiates. Anyways, the supplement is only around $12 to $15. Check out the following article on it:
DLPA: A Miracle Supplement For Opiate Addiction Recovery
Hey Matt, this might interest you..i am on day 43 clean after being on very high doses of oxycodone ir for 7plus years. 500mg a day ish…i am soo tired now despite being an avid fitness person..i am gone for work minimum 11 hrs a day. Then i rotate na meetings and gym. I have been on trt for about a year and a half. I would think the test cypionate injections would continue to provided well being but this is awful…when will i feel btr…i am sure u need more info,..but i need some idea if this will in fact end? Thank in advance bro…daN
Dan I’m sorry to hear about your lack of energy. I wish I knew when it would get better. But everyone is so different that there is no way to tell. Best of luck to you my friend.
I am tapering off methadone 1-2 mg. Every 7-10 days. My highest dose was 120 a year ago and now I’m at 29 mg. It’s the most miserable time in my life.. The methadone has ruined my teeth, caused 100 lb weight gain, constantly red & clamy skin on face n chest, the rest of my skin is rough n dry. Horrible fatigue, extreme temperature sensitivity, depression, no libido, stunted hair growth on scalp, and loss of eye lashes & eye brows without any re-growth yet despite my long taper.. I am just in the worst place at this point. I never had any of these issues while on heroin, just the methadone. .
Kell, I too was on metadone for a long, long time …off&on for 1st year. Then daily for 13. All the way up to 200 mgs..split dose 100 a.m. 100 p.m. due thyroid and over metabolism. Long story short, I got off. Went omgs for 7 days. Almost dead. New clinic started me at 50 or 60. I did go up to 100..But since euphoria was long in the past for me, my sole goal was DETOX. I had a counselor who was a fabulous recovering addict. He told me to taper large In the beginning, then slow after I got to 20. I wish you had this info before now. But Darling you have made it a long way. Now that you are below, talk to your counselor/Doctor and go slower from here on out…if they agree. Good look. Look forward, not back. NOW MY PROBLEM, I have managed in 6 months to get physically addicted to oxycodone and hydrocodone. After 6 years opiate free. No excuse, but this has all been under a dr.’s care. And yes the doctor knew about my heroine to methadone to clean exploration. I woke up in hospital last year receiving 2mg dilaudid q 2 hrs..not prn. They every to hours for 10 days. Sent me home with hydro and oxycodone came soon afterwords because I cannot take the fillers hydro or perocet.
“I can handle this, I kicked heroine and methadone”. BS. It is just as bad, worse even, I am older. I am here on Matt Finch’s site for knowledge, guidance, and support. You stay here. You listen, you cry, you complain. Whatever it takes. Just finish out your methadone detox and NEVER EVER let a doctor give you an opiate. I would rather live with back pain than an opiate dependentry life. Keep up the good work. Matt’s advice is extremely close to my counselor’s…and it worked and was not so bad. Exercising, supplements and hydration and nourishment are a HUGE part of this. Now to my own problem.
i feel like shit….always!!! im on week 7 of quiting methadone cold turkey. HARDEST thing ive ever done in my life. I would give my left butt cheek to go back but i cant. have a hus and bab that deserve a good women n mom. its so hard…no energy! watchin my family live life without me.
Hi I am also going through the same thing. I am on day 25 without any methadone. I barley can get out of bed. Taking a shower feels like a days work. I am struggling. Methadone I hear, can take over a month sometimes even longer. This is indeed one of the hardest battles of my life. And as much as I’ve been thinking about relapsing; I know this to shall pass and it will all be worth it.
Thee worst part, for me, is watching my family live life without me. I am a lump. Was on Fent for only 14 months (script) and tapered..,18 days later I have nothing to offer my family. Depressed,weak. Doing EVERY method/OTC I read. Nothing. Please tell me if I have broken receptors?? EXACTLY when am I to be alive again?? Does it just suddenly lift?? PAIN DOCTORS SUCK.?
Hey mat wanted to start off by saying thank you for all u have done ..well I’m 20 days clean off heroin I’m not on subs or anything else but it seems like I’m having a mental block or something drained in every way possible but I can’t sleep an its starting to drive me crazy I tried working out but like I said before no energy… What do u think keep pushing through the work out an hope it breaks
I definitely wouldn’t keep pushing. I thought about my living. Everything lost can be regained. I stayed in bed 6 days and on that 6th day I got a burst then after an hour or so it left. Day 7 burst of energy lasted longer. I started pushing I depleted my energy. So I take each day or each hour as a gift. I take vitamins. I ate simple foods because kept my stomach settled. But, cold turkey was not the wisest way to quit, but I am so much more ahead of my recovery by doing it that way and I have serious heart issues and I am here. So hold on energy is coming. Don’t force it. Happy new year!
I Have found that different strains of kratom is gods miracle helper for getting thru withdrawal saved me
Hi Matt..my girlfriend detoxed medically off of methadone(cold turkey) in the summer.. in detox they gave her chlonodine, diazapm..lyrica and a couple other meds while in detox. she had a rough time while in detox and we found out that the Drs prescribing her these meds in detox were not even Drs and were arrested and charged with impersonating doctors. Really sad we paid for her to be supervised by professional Drs. She left the rehab centre after 6 weeks and was given a few of the meds mentioned above to continue taking and was advised to taper herself off of them. We decided to go to Europe at the end of the summer and she decided to leave all her meds back home and hopefully she would get better without them as she didnt want to be on anything(prob not the best idea) …the first 2 weeks in europe was pretty bad for her but she started to feel a lot better toward the end of our trip and for the following month or so she felt good..more energy …always wanted to eat..put on weight…happier..pain was almost gone. then it was like she hit a wall. No energy at all in the mornings..too sore to get out of bed..mood changed..legs felt very weak. she is always complaining about energy and that she feels like crap and useless that its soo hard for her to get up in the morning to even shower…running nose ..nd always always cold We think this might be Paws. Do you believe these symptoms will go away if she takes your supplements as described above??
God Bless you Matt Finch. You should set up a donate button somewhere for all your incredible charity to the american people. Much respect Matt… Much respect
Me, too I’m going through Loratab withdrawal. And heck the doctor would only give them to a friend to manage them so I didn’t take too many. She brought them to me one in the morning and one at night. So why am I in opiate withdrawal from a week and a half’s worth? Probably because my body remembers what it was like to be on opiates? Am I possibly in withdrawal with the muscle pains and can’t get going feeling, or is it just winter sadness?
I had that happen–opiod rebound is what my doctor called it. The inactive receptors from when I was on percocet and then left it started up again full force when I went on some Norco–best to just keep away from the stuff and never look back. Opioids are a trap as far as I am concerned, even for the worst pain I try and avoid them.
Donation button? Im sure he gets paid everytime someone orders something through one of his links. If u have the money get this stuff and he will get something. Im broke though and hope theres cheaper stuff. Btw, ten years on subs and dope, subs about half the month, brick a day the rest. Last two months i was shootin meth coke and dope like there was no tomoro. Detox, day nine, feel horrible. Cant wait till its over
I’m on my first day without buprenorphine. Had reduced down to 0.1mg very slowly. My doc assured me that I won’t feel any physical withdrawal now. But honestly. I’m finding that sense of feeling g out of kilter way harder than the physical. Have been taking dl-phenylalanine, matcha tea and my doc has me on Prozac (which I hate for the flat feeling. Was put on it for depression long before I turned to heroin).
Am going to get some adrenal support supplements and see if they help with the lethargy (I get so frustrated with .myself, I wonder if it’s just laziness on my part).
Don’t get frustrated with yourself Kelly. You’re doing amazing and I honor you for the courage it takes to do what you’re doing. You’re an inspiration.
I’m going to detox tommorow going to be off ten days worry about work after the ten days . I fear I want have the energy
I wanted to add (in conjunction/addition to my inquiry about if any ingredients in the withdrawal elixirs were addictive) that I know from experience that anything can be addictive. I displayed an addictive personality since puberty. Each time I ended one addiction I began a new one which was worse than the prior. At first it was exercise, then work, power, money, men, sex, cigarettes, alcohol, then eventually opiates and kratom. All of them lasted short periods of time (a yr or so) but was able to simply move on. However, opiates have not been as easy. I want to end this addiction cycle that has pegged me for most of my adult life and don’t want to simply trade one addiction for another. Therefore I worry about taking your elixirs but NEED to be the strong woman I once was.
I have never read about any of these dietary supplements being addictive in any way, shape or form.
This is exactly where I am…I’ll be 35 in January/ female. Thanks for your post. Much luck to u!
I’ve been in subs for a year and a half. I ran out of subs and I had to quit cold turkey. No one knows about any of this. I have lupus and RA so my decreased energy is hidden with those. I took my last tiny bit on Sunday withdrawal sucks and I read all your articles I ordered the dlpa it’s coming in a week. I just need to hang on. But I don’t know if I should get a sub and take a tiny bit to help my withdrawal just to take the edge off? I’m alone with two kids my husband is in the military and works long hours. How long will this last? Any help or suggestions would be helpful. Your articles are amazing to read.
Only you can decide whether or not to take more Suboxone to get you through. There is probably going to be a little while that you don’t feel well, but like you said, you just need to hang on. No matter what supplements people take, there is still at least a small amount of time where it’s just no fun. The duration is different for everyone, but I’ve seen many people struggle with post acute symptoms for weeks to even months after getting off Suboxone. That’s why I write about all the supplements and other things…because addressing the physical issues has helped many people speed up the recovery time.
Hang in there Anna!!! I’ll tell you right now that a strong mindset is more important than anything. You have to link massive pain to Suboxone and other opioids, while linking massive pleasure to not using those drugs. You can do this. I feel it within you.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose, or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
My boyfriend broke up with me two weeks ago, we were in love, we were happy and everything was perfect not until he started dating my best friend, I cry myself to sleep every night, I tried everything to get him back. It looks like its hopeless, He spends time with my best friend and not me. I miss him so incredibly much and everyday, he was a great guy and I needed him back and i never thought possible that Great zula can restore broken relationship! At first I was scared cos I read a lots of stories of fake spell casters, scams and i never really believed in magic but I played along with a little faith, the love spell worked like a magic, 3 days after the love spell was done Zula made my lover to come back to me with greater love, i was happy, I was floored that his spells worked, everything felt dreamy and unbelievable thanks to Great Zula for helping me to bring my lover back.
Tess NICHOLAS.
Ok that’s nice and all but honestly, wtf does that have to do with people experiencing opiate withdrawal. As a middle aged man I sometimes do stupid things. I honestly quit opiates every month. Some months harder than others but I will usually go the first 4 days to 1 full week with nothing after a tapering detox. I take b12, immodium and any opiate that is considered crap by various communities. I also will take a prednisone which i wont suggest to anyone any of this but I take it and when the immodium kicks in I give a damn less about symptoms because the Pred is a steroid and it makes me turn into the incredible hulk.
My only other bad vice is im not very physically active and not to sound perverted or anything but I think the b12 helps with problems men have while on opiates. The dreaded ED! Talk about a masculinity killer! Since Ive added b12 to the mix I take sleep shifts as its hard to go to sleep without something like benadryl. However, I noticed that I was waking up with full firm erections like before I ever started messing with pain meds.
USA healthcare sux , I have no insurance , always broke and I have bad knees. One Dr told me I might end up like her as she started having bad RA in her mid 40s too. Anyway I seem to have digressed. However I can safely say if you want to keep it simple just use immodium name brand if you can, if not generic. My personal situation and routine :
1. Get a schedule ready. You will need it. Find a sponser partner like rehab does. A friend. Anyone! Even a stranger that is dedicated to talking to you when you need it. Luckily for me, my only kid is 18 and in school so shes self sufficient and lives with her mother. You may not think you need anyone and can handle it until you go to a dark place as the brain is healing itself. Clear all spare time appointments : cancel dates, movies with friends, etc. Be advised you MAY lose people because of this. If they are true loved ones and friends and you are completely honest with them on this they will support you. If you are like me, while you may think support groups and rehab centers are the way to go, I just cant bring myself to do it.
2. Taper down from your “normal” opiates. I have access to Oxy, and Roxxi. I dont touch the Oxy until the the rox is gettin low. From there I taper down further. Once thats up, I take nucynta which is the third by weaker by comparison super version of tramadol. When that gets low I start hittin the b12, taking moderate but not super amounts of immodium and pop a nucynta with it. I also take potassium helps with the muscles.
3. Whenever you are feeling ok but not ok at the same time hit the shower. Even if you take multiple showers a day. Drink plenty of water and / or gatorade.
4. Stay busy as much as you can. Although you may not feel like it, some stuff cannot be put off. I mean you cant just tell for example, your small children to fend for themselves because you are being a slacker. Thats what losers do and despite being here you are NOT ONE. Especially if you are reading up on how to get it out of you. My mom and nephews laugh at me when Im showering because I say random crap as if im exercising the poisonous demons in me. I will walk briskly, shadow kick box, listen to music really loud ( dont know why but old punk rock works for me ). I can safely say I have NEVER had diarrhea doing this. Never puked. I have sneezed like hell and looked like I was crying though and chills too.
5. Whatever you do, do NOT just do nothing and look at the clock like a zombie. This will make every thing worse. ( see 4 ). As for human interaction, some people coming off opiates cannot take someone touching them or temperature extremes. However if you dont have the dont touch me thing and have someone to do it with, sex and a shower is legendary. Youd be surprised what a good orgasm can do for you.
6. EVERY single time you get a burst of energy and feel normal , know that you are on the clock and may feel less energized randomly so make the best use of it! I play LOTS of video games from retro games on emulators to popular ones like WoW. At this point you will probably smell like a NY Sewer, especially if you did a lot of physical stuff to sweat. Change clothes, wash them and the bed sheets as they will mostly be foul too. Ever saw a movie or for real saw this dirty addict in the alleyway or even in their own home and wonder how they dont smell themselves? Now you know why. The more you DONT sweat, pee and shower the longer the stuff stays in there especially if you are a large person. Small skinny people and / or people with high metabolism seem to recover quicker than us fatter people but I have also noticed they seem to take it harder also when its mental.
7. At this point if you have made it without relapse to the 72 hour mark, know that you just did something yourself that a large percentage of the planet cannot DO without professional help. Although there is absolutely NO SHAME in getting that, I get naturally high when I quit and I do this EVERY MONTH. Im what you can call a functional addict. To be honest if not for my horrible knee pains I wouldnt even use the stuff. I used to do martial arts a lot back in the day and fight in bareknuckle fights for money. My lack of teeth and broken body are the result. While Mr Businessman over there was closing offshore accounts and playing the stock market to bring home the bacon, I was in an abandoned park or parking lot somewhere at silly hours fighting to do the same.
8. REPAIR : This goes back to above where you may have upset people. Know that you may lose them. Use this as a reason to never go back.
Good Luck!
will these herbs work for fatigue while still on opiods? I have spinal cord injury and neuropathy from chemoradion and cannot walk without opiods but the fatigue, weight gain and sweats are terrible. I can’t find anything to help
That sound like symptoms of Opioid-Induced Endocrinopathy. Please read the following article:
Opioid-Induced Endocrinopathy
I have to say that the recommended supplements really do help. I was on heroin/oxy’s for 6 months, pretty heavy daily user. I quit cold turkey and breezed through the acute “dope sick” part only to be introduced to PAWS. Unbelievably tiered, no energy, could not get off the couch for 2 weeks. I found this website and bought all the supplements and started feeling better in a week. 2-3 weeks later I am almost back to normal.
DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) – A combination amino acid supplement that can help you produce dopamine, norepinephrine (noradrenaline), epinephrine (adrenaline) and endorphins.
L-Tyrosine – An amino acid that can increase dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine levels in the brain.
Mucuna Pruriens – A tropical legume that has the above benefits of L-Tyrosine, while also containing minor amounts of serotonin, 5-HTP and nicotine.
Ginseng – A root that is used for increasing energy and stamina in Chinese medicine
Thanks for sharing your experience using this supplement protocol. That’s absolutely marvelous you gave it a go and have started to feel almost normal after 2-3 weeks! You’re well on your way, and I appreciate you commenting about this, as it will help other readers. Take care and best of luck to you.
are these supplements expensive? can you get them at a local drug store or gnc?
The herbs are expensive and not in stores. The other supplements are not expensive, and sometimes can be found at health food or vitamin stores.
Hi I purchased all of the natural ingredients you advised me to get all but the DLP… i could not find that in the store. I live near fort worth. Do have any recommendations where I can find it? it’s only been a day but the others seem to have helped me get out of my slump and have a little more energy so I’m really excited about this. Thank you so much for your site and helping others overcome withdraws and hard times…
Unfortunately that supplement is rare at stores. Even here in San Diego, California it is only in popular health food stores like Sprouts and Whole Foods, and there will only be one brand and dosage. It’s available on Amazon.com if you have a debit card you can purchase it from there. I’m glad the other stuff has helped you start to get out of your slump, and after just one day! Your excitement is contagious and I’m so happy for you Mandi! 🙂
If having a problem with insomnia, would it be best not to take the following before dinner ?
DL-Phenylalanine DLPA
L-Tyrosine
Mucuna Pruriens
Ginseng
If it were me, and the insomnia was from opiate withdrawal or post-acute withdrawal, I would probably take my last dose of them before 2ish.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose, or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
Can you feel the effects of DLPA immediately ?
Some people can feel it within 60 minutes, with others it takes a few days.
I am not seeing the comment I posted esrlier. I asked if I could do something with real ginsang that I dug myself. Do you have any suggestions?
I am seeing your comment and my response right below this one? Can you not see it?
Yes thank you
I see how expensive ginsang is. This may be a dumb question but what if I have the real deal that I dug up myself. Is there anything I can do with it rather than buying it?
I’m sure if you Google it you can find a way to make tea or powder with it.
and acupuncture!
Absolutely!
Swedish rhodiola rosea works really good. (i prefer artic root brand)
Yes that’s some good stuff right there.
After many years on perscription opiates abusing them…I went on methadone and then got off that and went on suboxone. I’ve been off suboxone for several months now but I have zero energy . Mentally I just feel like a zombie like it’s hard to talk to my husband. I usually just give one word answers because I just don’t have the thought ability I should have. I get a random burst of energy at night before bed. Sleep has been very easily interrupted the smallest thing will wake me up and then I can’t get back to sleep right away. I have no sex drive at all. Haven’t forever. I’m 28 years old and healthy … I just feel like a drone. I see your list of supplements (the amazon items) and I appreciate you providing the info but it’s all very expensive 🙁 I’m on disability and can’t afford alot . Is there anything cheaper you can recommend? I would really appreciate your Input. I’m getting so tired of living every day like I’m brain dead . No expression no energy no passion no nothing !!
Hi Amanda,
Thanks for sharing a bit of your story, and know that you’re not alone! Many people are going through the post-acute withdrawal symptoms you are experiencing, and there is hope.
Please review the following article for tips that might help you:
How To Stop Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome From Opiates
And as far as inexpensive supplements go, please review the following items:
DLPA
L-Tyrosine
This is about as cheap as it gets if you want to restore dopamine and energy levels. Can’t think of anything less expensive than these, as they are only $10 and $13.
I can relate to the no energy, no passion thing, as I remember going a few months of that after getting off Suboxone many years ago. It’s no fun! Best of luck to you Amanda. If you have any more questions I’m here for you.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
Thanks for the response ! I emailed you because I didn’t think I got a response. I figured it would show in my email if someone responded..but it doesn’t! I came back on here to check and there your response was . Thanks 🙂
Are these links on the tyrosine amd dlpa the recommended brands to get? Or does it matter?
You’re welcome! In my opinion these brands are high-quality, however, there are other brands I like as well. These ones I like the quality and price 🙂
Hi Matt first off I just want to say Thank You for all you do! My storey basically started 3 years ago when I was prescribed percocets for migranes from than on I slowly started to abuse my prescription and eventually ended buying them off the streets it’s been an on and off addiction and I’m so ready to say good bye for good! I’ve started a taper program with the help from my husband I’m down to 2 a day which I take as soon as I wake because I find I can’t start my day without something, by 3pm the leg cramps and flu like symptoms start so I’ve started taking the l-tyrosine 3, 1500 mg tabs my question to you is what else can I add to my afternoon to help me to deal with my withdrawl symptoms in the afternoon ? I should also mention I’m a mom to 2 beautiful kids 3 and 5 months so I definitely need my energy for the afternoon thank you
Hi Christina, so sorry for my late response, but your comment was in the spam folder. I will be checking this folder daily to avoid this happening again. I hope you are doing better with energy, and you asked what else could work in the afternoon along with L-tyrosine….in my opinion the supplements I wrote about in this article might be able to help some people with energy.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
It’s been one year and three months since quitting several years of heroin use. I have good energy, but only for a few hours each day, then my body or brain goes back into lazy mode.
Prior to opiates, I had been competitive in karate, snowboarding, lifting, and a workhorse of a man. NOW, I’m a sloth…
The one statement you make is “if my elixir doesn’t help you, nothing will”…that scares me.
I’ll give it a try, cross your fingers
My fingers are crossed for you! Good luck!
Hey. Thanks for the advice. Just coming up to 1 week cold turkey off 2 yrs on strong slow released opiate pain relief. Had no idea about this tired business! Holy crap. The detox was a breeze. Felt like hell for 48hrs then snapped out of it. Now i just have no energy damn it. Wake up in the morning like an athlete then die in the arse 25minutes later lol. Will try and get a hold of some of these herbs. I live in Australia and unfortunately our government can be a little sensitive when it comes to anything alternative. And that they can’t regulate and tax the life out of it. Eg kratom and numerous other natural products.
Sorry to hear about your exhaustion, but CONGRATS on quitting those nasty opiates! And the energy will eventually return even without the supplements, it will probably just take much longer. But no matter how tired you feel, don’t go back to opiates! Take care.
Thanks Matt. Saw my local naturopath today. Showed him your list. He agreed with you totally. He was able to make me up a bulk lot in full strength top grade powder form. Thank you for your advice!
Glad it went well with the Naturopath! Sounds like you’re in good hands. Take care 🙂
Matt. Day 3 of taking the goods from the naturopath and its like a switch got turned on today! Holy crap im back in action!! Thank you soooo much. Have been to work last 2 days. Thought i might die yesterday afternoon, but today i powered right through. I have a fairly physical job aswell. Again many thanks. You gave me back my mojo.?
Haha alright! So glad you updated me with your FAST progress. That is a very short period of time to see such wonderful results. Thanks for sharing your experience 🙂
4 years pain pills and 1 year zusolv… I started lap swimming and spin class right when starting zubsolv, I started w two pills a day down to 1/4 staggering. I even started drinking green smoothies…. I wanted to be healthy and strong as I know w/drawls are the devil… I’m on day 9 completely sober and I have zero energy, General pains, depressed… Bla! Soooo thank you for the info!,
Thanks for sharing a bit about your history, and congrats on being on 9 days of sobriety! Well done! Glad you enjoyed the info, and I hope you start getting your energy back soon 🙂
Help!! I’m on day 47, I still don’t have strength. I been taking a big list of vitamins. Please tell me it gets better.
It gets better!!!! Hang in there!
Let me start over. For the last about 4 years I had been abusing pain pills. I quit about 2 years ago, but went back because of no energy. Thank God my husband is helping me with encouragement and getting me vitamins. Right when I quit I was up to 15 – 10’s a day. My family is making a life changing move, over 1200 miles away. Life has been difficult, but I know I can do this. The stress is really high, the energy is very low. Here is the list I am taking now, but towards 2 pm I have no strength. Do you think it would be ok to take the noon ones at 3 pm again? I need to do something. I already feel like a different person mentally, I don’t snap and I can laugh again. I have feelings back in my body, I’m not numb any longer. Thanks for your site I just wish I would have seen it when I quit, we had already started these. I can tell you the aches and pains are gone, except moving boxes. 🙂
Morning
Omega 3-6-9
Boswellia & Curcumin
Vitamin C
L-Tyrosine 2000
Korean Ginseng 1000
Vitamin E
Rhodiola Rosea Extract
B6 & b12
Calcium Citrate Magnesium
Super energy up
Turmeric & black pepper
Bromelain
Noon
L-Tyrosine 2000
Korean Ginseng 1000
Rhodiola extract
B6 & 12
Super energy up
Night
Boswellia & Curcumin
Calcium Citrate Magnesium
Turmeric and black pepper
Bromelain
Perhaps the reason your energy is not up yet is because it appears that you might be taking low-quality ginseng. The supplements I link to in this article have helped people get energy back fast. I’m coaching a woman currently that used the ginseng and reishi tincture I talk about and stated it really boosted her energy and mood.
The majority of ginseng products on the market are extremely low quality, and if you want the good stuff, you have to be willing to pay the price (it’s expensive!).
I recently found a new company that has an EXTREMELY POWERFUL product:
Shen Nong’s Ginseng
It’s $74.95 for just a 2 ounce tincture, but in my opinion, it’s well worth it due to the massive amounts of energy it can help one produce.
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
hi, I’ve recently stopped norco after use over 10 years though dosage never exceed 2 and half pills a day , 10/325s …I developed ibs symptoms late april this year and also have low iron counts and lymphocyte per two blood workups in June and July this year; ; have had bad fatigue last 7 weeks , at that time dosage noco 1 pill day ..stopped completely 8 days ago . my Dr said was not really concerned about the blood work ..do you think your regimen could help ? I’m trying vit c and b vits highet doses , and a thyroid support and something for adenal fatigue , also ri- Bose supplement , with some short term relief…
Yes Scotty, I believe this regimen might be able to help. I’ve talked to many people that stated it really worked for them.
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
I’m going to try to find these things today. Is it possible to find them at a local drug store?
Gary I don’t think any of these are available at your local drugstore, however, a few are usually sold at health food or vitamin stores, but the tinctures are generally only found online.
How long will this last? 4 to 6 weeks for just buying 1 of each?
They all last different lengths of time.
Maca root would probably last for months.
DLPA 1-2 weeks for one bottle.
Mucuna 2-3 weeks for one bottle.
Ginseng and reishi about 3 weeks.
Good Day, does it matter the brands and the types? I’m in Canada & couldn’t find half the stuff in the exact forms you suggested . I got l-tyrosine, l-phenalalinine and liquid ginsing with Royal Jelly, was going to just get plain but the gentleman said it was just added energy. Will this still work those three supplements? Also the vit c article was very helpful as well 🙂 thank you this site has given me so much info. Bless you Matt
Hi Meg,
The brands I recommended do not have to be used. Other products can work as well. I’m so glad the vitamin C article helped you as well 🙂 Thank you for the kind words. Take care Meg.
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
Is it ok to take longer then 6 weeks?
Absolutely. For several months or longer even.
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
Wait what? Coffee is making this worse? Grrr! Can I get this stuff from my local gnc?
Coffee can make it worse. Please refer to the following article:
5 Shocking Reasons why Coffee is Actually Bad for you
As for the supplements, GNC usually carries only a couple of these supplements. Most have to be ordered off the internet or purchased at a health food store that has a big supplement department. If you click on the links I provide, they are all available on Amazon, and various other websites.
Thank you! I’m six weeks clean and have been thinking about getting on a suboxone program out of financial necessity. Taking a shower and brushing my teeth is still something I have to psych myself up to do. I work construction and it isn’t going to happen as long as I feel like this. Sounds like this might help with the “will I ever feel happy again”too. Twelve step programs are not for me. It would be nice if I had someone to talk to from time to time that understands what this is like. I hope this works! I don’t want to go through this again! Oh and for anyone reading this who is also suffering, one thing that has helped make getting to six weeks possible is instead of thinking not taking pills makes me feel this way, taking them is what got me here and this sucks so the pills suck too! It helps with the mind Fuck of I function great with them and can’t function without them.
Thanks for dropping a comment, and thanks for sharing that great tip about changing your mindset on the way you view opiates! Great advice 🙂 I hope you get your energy and happiness back soon. Many people have used this protocol and experienced great results. Take care.
Your not alone going thru this. There are lots of normal well educated people that have became addicted to.opiates for various reasons. I will say from experience, things do get better. One day you will look back and say “How in the hell did I ever get myself into that mess”. You didn’t get addicted to them over night so you will not recover back to normal over night. Every chance you get go for a walk in the evening even though you have to force yourself. It will get your muscles stimulated,blood flowing and neurological aspects out of the blocked sergade they have been in and function once again normally. Drink lots of water to keep the body flushed out. Once your body realizes its not being blocked by pain by opiates and will start working properly again. Hang in there and set yourself some goals like walk around the block one evening then try twice the next. It’s a slow process but it works. I’m talking from experience. Don’t give up.
Will I ever return to the energetic, happy, motivated, thorough, self I used to be? I miss that person. I don’t even recognize myself anymore or even know who I am anymore. Prior to my opiate addiction I was an annoying, happy, goodie goodie, over achiever. NEVER did I think I would become addicted and do some of the things I did. Now that I’m clean I’m trying to rediscover myself. So far I’m not near who I was or want to be as I lack the motivation. I do have some happy motivational moments but they are few and far between. I just want the old me back. Will it ever happen?
The exercise is the biggest part of my recovery your so right
Suboxone will get you back up and running. Be careful though. I’ve been on it for over two years, now I’m on here. Suboxone is very expensive. It is easier to deal with the withdrawal than pills but they are the same. I mean they’re a milder version. It still sucks bad. I wish i never got started on those Damn pills. 10 years addicted to opiates. It’s time to come off. Anyway Suboxone can help. Just be careful not to get stuck on them for too long. Good luck.
Please do not get started on suboxone! I’m almost three weeks in withdrawal from suboxone and its way worse than pain pills I think because of the half life. The withdrawals from suboxone will last for some people up to months while pain pills are 3-5 days. I would much rather come off of pain pills than suboxone any day! That is why I am here on this site! I need help to get through this or I’m going to end up giving in to the so-called miracle drug suboxone! It’s no miracle at all. This is worse than anything I have ever come off of and trust me, I have been on it all at one time or another. I just want to be drug free. Live life clean and enjoy everyday with my two beautiful kids. So sick of being sick and tired!!!
Hey man I’m right there with you. I’m a builder and got hooked on oxys 5 years ago after blowing my hip out and knee problems from sports injuries when I was younger. The past 2 years ive tried to get clean and always ended up going back to my old habits after a couple weeks. This time is different, my wife accepted a new job 8 hours away in another state so I’ve lost all my hookups. I don’t feel comfortable hitting the streets to try and find pills because I have too much to loose if I get caught by the cops. I was able to bring enough subutex to get me through the move and now that I’ve run out I started looking for other ways to curb the withdrawals which brought me to this website. I’m on day 3 of no drugs and I’m literally running out to grab some Imodium ad and supplements after I finish typing this lol. Hang in there, there’s thousands of others just like us you are not alone!
And thank you Matt Finch for sharing your ways with us recovering addicts. I will report back in a couple days after the loperamide and supplement regime.
You sound just like me. I have no energy and each day I fight to do the bare minimum which is the total opposite of who I used to be before oxys disrupted my life. I want to be who I used to be but don’t know how. I don’t believe in the 12 step crap nor do I have anyone to talk to as I have kept my 9 yr addiction a secret. I’ve been clean for two months. I at first started taking kratom to help with the withdrawals but found myself addicted to that (taking upwards of 70 capsules a day). They say exercing works but I’m too tired and sore to even think about doing that. I’m so frustrated and just want the pre-opiate me back.
I just want to thank you!!! I’ve tried a number of things I have found on your various sights and it really has helped. You hit it right on, nothing gets rid of withdrawal completely but it helps. I’m a little too sore to excercise so I do 30 jumping jacks here and there and walk along with the supplements and at least I get to work. Going down slowly now on 15 milligrams of methadone, so still got a way to go but getting there. Thanks for caring and helping.
I’m so happy to read this comment!!! Really glad some of these tips have been helping! I appreciate your kind words. Thanks for the comment, and have a wonderful day 🙂
Thanks so much! Just got shipment and started mega dosing with your sodium ascorbate protocol every 2 hrs. On my 3rd dose of 1/4 tsp and Matt OMG what amazing results already! Can’t wait to do the energy elixir 1st thing in a.m.! I am trying to find an event where someone can nominate you as an EARTH ANGEL! Bless u Matt you are a true angel saving family’s and lives! I love what your doing! I pray all your dreams come to fruition
Haha thanks Gram!!! I love the enthusiasm! Keep me posted on how it goes. 🙂
Gram you’re about to have some serious energy!!! Yes, those can all be taken together to eliminate fatigue from tapering and coming off opioids. Enjoy 🙂
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs.
Sorry Matt that reply was posted in my reply meant for you lol lol
Love grammy (gram)
Hi Matt,
First I want to thank you for all that your doing to help people get through this awful experience. I honestly think my situation is a little different. I started using Percocet 5 years ago after having a c-section. I found that I was full of energy and focus and felt like a super mom. I never got to the point that I was spending all my money if I ran out. Whenever I did run out I dealt with very mild withdrawal. In fact I didn’t even know it was withdrawal until I started reading about it online. My withdrawal consisted of anxiety for few days. Now I will still use Percocet but I get nothing out of it anymore except weight gain. I was also recently diagnosed with Narcolepsy. I’m prescribed. Xyrem for narcolepsy which is basically GHB which helps me get a very good restful sleep. Since I mixing Percocet and Xyrem could be fatal. I don’t take any Percocet within 6 hours of my Xyrem dose. I don’t want to to take the Percocet ever again. I haven’t taken one in 48 hours and my only symptoms are extreme fatigue and lack of motivation. Is it possible this is all in my head? I wonder if I never knew this was a symptom would I feel this way. Due to my narcolepsy I also take a stimulant during the day. However, yesterday I took my stimulant which is Vyvanse and fell asleep 3 hours after taking it which is unheard of. So that makes me think it’s not just in my head. I have started taking Calm Support, but haven’t seen any results yet. I have read all your blogs and I absolutely believe I’m definitely experiencing adrenal fatigue. According to the COWS scale I’m not even suffering from withdrawal. I have read there was some studies at one time regarding GHB for opiate withdrawal. So I know the insomnia that most people experience is so awful to deal with and fortunately that’s not an issue for me. If you can provide me any suggestions I would appreciate so much. Like I said the original feeling I got from the Percocets has been gone for at least a year now. The only reason I continue to take them is because I feel like it gives me some energy and motivation, which it does but only very minimal amounts. The weight gain is making so,depressed and I know I will lose the weight as soon as I stay off the Percocet. I did quit 2 years ago for 2 months and dropped 20 pounds in that time. I’m sorry for such a long post, this is the 1st time I have ever reached out to anyone anyone for advice. No one in my family knows or my friends and I don’t want to disappoint my family. I know I’m strong enough to beat this but since I work full time and have a 5 year old the fatigue and lack of motivation Is adding to my depression. My husband has no idea this has this has been going on and I don’t want to tell him because he’s having a really hard time himself since he recently lost his mom. Anything you can suggest is,greatly appreciated
Adrenal fatigue usually responds very well to quitting all stimulants, sleeping from 10:00-10:30 pm to 6:00-6:30 am, and taking adaptogens. When you push yourself beyond your limits with Percocet, the drug gives some people a ton of energy. It used to do this for me. I used Percocet and other opiates to cook long hours at a busy restaurant in New York, working 6 days per week with a newborn baby. When I stopped, I had so much fatigue and “pleasure deafness” that I continued to relapse.
The supplements I recommend in this article are VERY POWERFUL at providing energy/happiness/foucs and reversing adrenal fatigue. Your situation does in fact sound unique, and since you gain weight on Percocet that is unusual, as usually people lose weight on it, then put weight back on after quitting.
Please read the following article on Opioid-Induced Endocrinopathy. I don’t think it pertains to you since Percocet is not a sustained-action opioid, but it might get you on the right track:
Opioid-Induced Endocrinopathy
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs
Thank you so much. I had no idea the stimulants could be causing the adrenal fatigue. I’m not positive that’s what I’m experiencing but the symptoms do fit. I think I gain weight while on Percocet because it slows down everything. When I quit 2 years ago I lost 20 pounds in those 2 months. I think alot of it bloating due to chronic constipation. I’m definitely going to try the supplements you mentioned. I might ask my doctor to run some test regarding my adrenal glands. The problem is without the stimulants working with Narcolepsy is almost impossible. Thanks again for your help.
You’re most welcome. I wish you the best of luck. If you ever have any more questions please just ask; I’m here to help in any way I can. Take care.
I was just reading through all the comments, it’s something I like to do when I need motivation or some hope going through withdrawal. (This is my 6th time to beat this but my first with Matt’s amazing natural program) I just wanted to let you know that what you’re going through is nothing to feel embarrassed or ashamed about! I saw that you have not told anyone about your addiction an I do understand why but I know from being a long time addict that when you can have friends and family that love you give that support and encouragement it will help more than you can imagine. They won’t be able to understand at first but give them the info they need to understand that it’s not just drug addiction but that it is a disease your brain has developed and they will be able to help you through probably one of the hardest things in your life. Best of luck!!
We ordered the Mucana L Trosine DLPA and Ginseng drops. The pills are 500mg. My husband takes 2 pills of each and 3 drops of ginseng in the morning then another regimen in the afternoon … What’s the Max MG you can take of these?? How many Mg’s do you recommend taking ?? Is 3 pills of the DLPA, Mucana and L Trosine too much (1500 mg) to take at a time twice a day?? This natural regimen seems to be working for energy!!! Thanks so much for the value you share!! Helps a lot when dealing with a recovering addict who’s in the early stages of recovery <3
I’m so happy to hear that these supplements seem to be working for energy for your husband!!! That’s awesome 🙂 According to Dr. Charles Gant (addiction professional who prescribes supplements for getting off drugs), DLPA and L-Tyrosine can be taken up to 2,000 mg at a time and up to 3x per day as long as there are no adverse symptoms like high blood pressure etc.
For mucuna, according to research I’ve done, the maximum daily dosage of L-Dopa should not go over 1,500 mg. The capsules of mucuna I recommend in the article have about 140 mg of L-Dopa in each one, so probably best not to exceed 10 capsules in a day.
So to answer your question, no, 3 pills 2x per day is not too much. Good luck with everything…and tell your husband I’m proud of him!!!
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs
Matt, I am on day 5 of suboxone withdrawal. Thank God for Clonidine. 🙂 However, I am having someone take me to get the supplies that will help with energy tomorrow. I have a husband and children who need love and care, so if anyone reads this please pray for me. Thank you so much for everything Matt,
Hi Erica,
Congrats to you for getting off Suboxone! I’ll pray for you and I wish you and your family well….and have fun getting your energy back with the powerful supplies. Take Care.
Erica I am on day 14 of suboxone withdrawal. My question is did these help and what did you take? Are u still clean from suboxone? I’m still having a rough time!
I have been on various opioids for 9 years following nerve damage to my shoulder and a broken back and 3 back surgeries (rods in, rods out, longer rods back in). I have been as low now as ever at 60-80 mg per day for the last 3 years. Should I be dependent and worry about stopping
Hi Steve,
Stopping cold-turkey, whether taking opioids as prescribed for pain or abusing them addictively, can result in severe withdrawal symptoms. Most people taper their opioids to reduce shock to the body. It’s a gentler approach. Talk to your doctor prescribing them about this.
Thank you for your valuable resources. This’ll help me as I begin detoxing.
You’re welcome Ty. Good luck on your detox.
Thank you thank you thank you
You’re welcome Jill.
Hi Matt- I’m on day 36 off a huge habit of opiates. I’m still extremely fatigued, sore, and very depressed. I was taking 300 milligrams of gabapentin at night to help sleep. I also noticed there is GABA in the nighttime formula of withdrawal ease I’ve been taking. I have since stopped and have experienced extreme depression even worse than previous. I have also found out that the gabapentin comes along with its own withdrawal symptoms. To many to list. Any suggestions Matt ? I just made a smoothie with wild ginsing sublime, maca root powder, and wild reishi. I also want to know if I can take DPLA, and L-tyrosine together and make sure there’s no negative side effects.
Hi Jon,
The herbs are a great start! They take a few days or longer to start really noticing the effects, however. As far as the DLPA and L-tyrosine, those can really help with cravings, fatigue and depression…you’re going to love it!
Those can be taken together, but make sure to do so on an empty stomach for better absorption. Amino acids work better this way. Congrats on staying clean! Now you have the right supplements to help you get your energy back! Take care Jon.
Disclaimer: I am a Strategic Intervention Coach, not a doctor, so I can’t give professional advice regarding aspects of the body, only the mind. This comment is for informational use only. It’s not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any disease. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, trying any new supplements, medications, exercise or opiate tapering programs
Hi I was wondering where I can find those 4 ingredients you talked about in your article to help with opiate withdrawal fatigue….I recently switched from methadone to subutex and it sent me into complete withdraws so so bad it almost killed me. My Dr had told me to wait as long as I could to take the subutex so I thought I waited long enough but nope, sure didnt. Anyways long story short it’s gotten a little better but I’m having the worst fatigue and lack of energy. It seems like nothing I can do will help and I’m so frustrated. ..can you please help me find these ingredients so I can feel better??? Thank you so much! !
They are available on the Internet by clicking on the links in the article and purchasing online. The amino acids can also be found in some health food or vitamin stores, but the herbs are rarely found in stores.
Hello Matt… Just came across this discussion.. And was wondering if you could email me personally so I can discuss a few things I need help with? Please Please.. Thank you so much.
Hello Kandice. Please read the following link: Email Policy
Hello Matt and everyone reading this post on getting energy back after quitting opiates. I am happy to report that this is DAY 11! I was initially prescribed oxycodone for terrible post concussion migraines, and just 4 months later after misusing the oxys, I was purchasing Hydrocodone from the street to combat withdrawal like tachycardia and extreme anxiety first thing in the morning and throughout the day, apart becoming addicted to the feelings of numbness and comfort that the drugs did for me, helping me study for hours after class. My second attempt of trying Suboxone ( just 2 mg) after 28 hours in withdrawal resulted in a horrible reaction and once again I went to the hospital massively sick, dehydrated, vomiting even sips of water, a nasty drunk feeling, and high emotional and mental distress.
I started the L-Tyrosine on Day 7 after desperation to get better physically because the extreme fatigue was out of this world. I am waiting on order for the DLPA next week. Definitely the physical energy has come back to a good degree, and for that I am so grateful! I still battle with some anxiety, and so am still taking limited clonodine and benzos each day (for now). Reading many of the posts and ” How to stop post acute withdrawal” has helped immensely because now I understand that every withdrawal symptom I have or had is from a direct result of quitting opiates.
In a way the (allergic?) reaction I had from Suboxone was a blessing because if it had worked, then I would have just been in another dependency only to postpone the inevitable. The horrors of opiate withdrawal and admitting I needed help with my addiction has changed my life. I am committed to continue this path and am looking forward to leaving another post after I start the DLPA!
Thanks for letting us know how it’s working for you Tasha! And CONGRATS on getting off opiates that’s just amazing!! 🙂 Really proud of you, and I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to post this informational and inspirational comment. No doubt it will help many people. Take good care of yourself ok?! Feel free to check in again after the DLPA!
For all of you interested in what Tasha was referring to, here are links to articles on the stuff she talked about:
How To Use L-Tyrosine For Opiate Withdrawal
DLPA: A Miracle Supplement For Opiate Addiction
How To Stop Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome From Opiates
Day 29 clean from opiates! I finished my bottle of L-Tyrosine, 2000-3000 mg of per day for over 2 weeks, and have stopped the Clonodine many days ago.
Unfortunately, the last few days have been immensely troubling. My mind and body have been in painful emotional and physical turmoil (under a lot of stress incidentally) and the dreaded post concussion headaches and fogginess in my mind have come back, although to a slight lesser degree. Matt mentioned , that the first 90 days after getting clean is when 90% of people relapse. My body and brain, as I understand it, is rebuilding itself, and I must keep reminding myself that when I feel discouraged.
Other motives that I have to continue staying off those opiates is the PAWS: intense cravings to use the drugs again, up and down energy and the sudden crying spells. I haven’t prayed this hard in my life. It’s amazing how desperation can be a gift in a way. I have been on the DLPA for a few days now and feel better today despite some lingering headache and mental fogginess. I also have liquid multi-vitamins with ginseng, and Herb Master migraide supplement in the morning. Victory so far despite these challenges; I have got to stay motivated to stay off the pain killers and become psychologically, physically and emotionally better. All the best in the fight everyone!
I am struggling really bad with motivation. Somewhere at day 110. Would you recommend gaia adrenal daily support? I have a big time interview thats hands on and im scared to death of brain fog and yawning. Please respond ASAP.
That is a company I like and adrenal support is very helpful, though you sound like you’re needing some dopamine supplements as well which I talk about on this article. I love the Gaia brand and I believe they make great products. So the adrenal support could potentially help you.
Hi. This must be subjective. I’ve been on Gabapentin for years, and i go weeks without it when I travel or whatever. No noticeable effects.
Then quit altogether……..
Hi Matt…im so thankful to God tht u have shared ur life experiences with this horrible struggle. I did pay for the $97 course to view and dont know where to go to view it? Plz send me website or ? Thx
hello im trying to get the four product can u order them together if so how
Hi I stoped taking opiates like pain pills usen Subutex iv been off reg pain pills 30 days but I’m so tired . I been taking hydroycut just for energy because I fall asleep all the time I’m just wondering when u feel better it’s hard working plus living with my boyfriend who just thinks I’m lazy but I’m just so tired how long till u fill better well I mean have energy
Hi I have developed a severe respitory condition from this crap I’ve been taking. Will any of this you talk about have any effect on my breathing…… BTW this is hell
Hi Mike,
Sorry you’re going through so much pain. I’ve never heard of any of these supplements affecting breathing negatively.