cerebral palsy and opiot addiction

my brother is 36 years old and has cerebral palsy since the day he was born. in the last 2 years he has been taking perks for chronic pain and muscular spasms.  he also just had all his teeth removed and is on morphine.  he wants to get off the morphine as soon as the pain subsides in his mouth. the problem is the oxycodone.  he is addicted to it and fears if he stops the pain will get worse for him to handle.  ive seen him in the hospital when he had 5 bouts pneumonia.  when the oxy wore off the nurses couldnt give him more till the time was due.  he would breathe funny spaz really bad and his body was extremely tight. as soon as they gave it to him he would relax.  he is afraid to withdrawl if he were to stop because his body is hard to control when he is in chronic pain.  is there someone out there who has a similiar situation that i can get some resources or advice on how i can help him kick the habit?

Hi linmony,

And welcome to the forum! I'm so sorry your brother is in such pain. It breaks my heart. One thing please understand...he is NOT addicted to the percs....but his body is dependent on them. Huge difference. Addiction means you are abusing the drugs and they are harming you, you steal them, you take way more than prescribed and will do anything to get more. I don't see that your brother is doing this from what you have said.

But, his body is totally dependent on them and yes, he will suffer withdrawal if he stops cold turkey. Plus it's very dangerous on him to quit without a doctor's help. Literally he could die going cold turkey. There are drugs, like Suboxone, that they can give him to avoid the withdrawal symptoms while lowering the dosage. It's not hopeless, you just need information and to get your doctor involved.

Please keep us posted and let us know how your brother is doing. Invite him to join us if he's able.

Hugs,
Chutzie

Hi, Linmoy,
I also don't have any specific advice, other than what you've already been given, but wanted to welcome you to our forum.

I hope you can find some help here, but I know you'll find support.

PaLady