Words of Encouragement

[jsmizell]

Hi all... Its been a while and just wanted to check in. I am getting closer to my 2 year anniversary since surgery. The people on this board have truly been an inspiration to me. I have been med free for about 3 months now which means no Lyrica!

I finally made my mind up to stop the meds and I must admit it was very difficult for about a week. Now I hope to never look back. Even though Lyrica really helped, it also had its side effects which I now realize were not that good. Weight gain was the biggest one and I also found it was very difficult to concentrate at times. People would talk to me and I just had difficulty comprehending at times. I also found that even though I had been on the med for well over a year I was still fatigued. I also would wake up most every night (3-4 am) to go to the bathroom (urination).

All of these side effects are gone now and I am able to deal with the pain. Please know that I am not suggesting others do this without talking with your doctor. It took me several attempts to get to accomplish this and most would suggest you gradually ween yourself off instead of going "Cold Turkey" like I did.

I do hope this will encourage you as previous posts encouraged me and realize that it is possible to improve with this disease over time.

Jeff

[paul55]

Hi Jeff

Glad to hear you are doing well two years out. I find your post very interesting about the side effects of Lyrica. I take Gabapentin, and I think the effects of this drug are similar to Lyrica, at least according to what I read. Especially the weight gain. Just curious to know, have you started to lose some weight in the three months you've been off Lyrica? I also seem to be always fatigued. I've thought many times to try getting off the drug, even the neurosurgeon suggested at some point to get off, but as you say, it can be difficult.

I'm still thinking about it, and considering trying to stop the drug. Thanks for your post!

Paul

[jsmizell]

Paul,

I have lost about 10 lbs. and have now stabilized. I really need to exercise more but walking is really tough since my feet are still very numb and tingly. The pain in my feet is probably the one area where I have seen the least improvement. But considering how far I have come it is hard to complain much about that.

I guess its really an excuse since I could eat better and there are many other ways in which to exercise!

Jeff