Having some new issues not sure if its related to my pain medication or supplements

Hello, my name is AnnieRae. I have not posted in a very long time. I have Diffuse Connective Tissue Disease, and chronic pain and was recently diagonsed with Osteoarthritis. L4-5 Neural foraminal, annular tear L5-S1, L1-2 annular bulges. etc.

I am taking Ativan, and Norco for pain, was on Plaquenil but recently taken off because of manufacturing problems and having side effects from the different mfg. Plus I am taking multiple supplements.

I have taken Norco for about 4 years now. I only took it before when I really needed it but since being diagnosed I have needed the full daily dose. I have been experience headaches and some dizzyness.

My question is can you start having side effects by having to take more after taking it this long. I'm trying to figure out why all the headaches all of a sudden. Not sure what to think. Its the lowest dose of 5-325 and have never had a problem. Has anyone experienced this and had to stop and go on a different pain med. I'm scared if they have to change it. I don't know if I would go through withdrawals and would I be able to tolerate a different pain med.

Your comments would be appreciated. In the past I have posted on the Lupus site.

Thank you
AnnieRae

I have added a heading so more people will see your post.

Post Edited By Moderator (straydog) : 2/24/2015 1:32:37 PM (GMT-7)

It's possible to get new side effects after taking something for months, but I don't know about years. I've had reactions after 6 months from metoclopramide and after 3-4 months from gabapentin, but not any new reactions to opioids.

Of course, it's also possible to be getting a new problem. Is there any possibility of a sinus infection? They can give you headaches and dizziness.

Take a look at the supplements too. Have you started anything new?

It is also possible that the headache could be caused a filler that the company uses. Different manufacturers use different fillers. Have you tried getting it from a different manufacturer to see if there is any difference.

As others have stated, you can get the headaches after long time use also. The headaches after long time use are more common that headache from the fillers.

Have you had your eyes and teeth checked ? Problems with either or both can also cause headaches. It seems like time passes so fast from one eye exam and dental appointment to another. If you don't wear glasses, you may need them.

AnneRae,
Although some of the responses are informing you that rebound headaches are a side effect, what they are not looking at is the fact that you were taking plaquinel for your osteoarthritis and have since been taken off.
. If you are having headaches, look to the removal of the plaquinel versus rebound headaches as a result of taking Norco.
. The most common side effect of plaquinel is headaches and musculoskeletal aggravated pains. This is most likely the cause of your headaches. You don't need to try and get a different brand of medication, you simply need to get through this withdrawal from your plaquinel being removed from you rx regiment.
. Now, you are most likely also.dehydrated from coming off the plaquenel and conversely, need to replace some electrolytes by drinking Gatorade, or other similar type electrolyte replacement drinks for several days. I would also use a small amount of salt discretionarily while you're rehydrating; it can also be of some assistance.
. If this does not help, don't stop your Norco, but conversely, go into your docs office and have them do a blood drawn with a CBC and BMP; the results of these tests might give you answers that you're looking for.
11 yr. Naval Corpsman and surgical technologist. Master Chief Petty Officer,(r). Chronic pain sufferer and all around concerned retired EMT.