Oxycodone vs. OxyContin: Do you have experience with either?

I am currently taking Oxycodone for PM of conditions listed below. I cannot afford the extended release OxyContin.  I'm contemplating the purchase of prescription drug policy.  Otherwise, my PM says I cannot afford the meds "that could change my life".  That's a KICK in the teeth. 

I'm interested in the experience of other CPPs who have taken either of these meds.  I know that we all are affected as individuals by any med.  However, I need suggestions to keep serum levels steady while still taking the Oxycodone.  Would the extra cost of the policy justify the cost of $400+ per month for OxyContin?

Please feel free to share your thoughts...good or bad.

Thanks~~Dixie

I'm not sure about serum levels or anything like that. Oxy ER was effective for me when I used it, it's just that it's really hard to get for some reason (or it was).

So, you're not taking an ER med at all, Dixie? If that's the case, I personally would say it is worth it for the policy if it's doable for you.

Lots of healing, pain-free vibes your way. (((((hugs)))))

Thank y'all for your thoughts. Indeed, as I stated in earlier posts upon joining HW...GONE are my days of excellent health/dental/eye/prescription insurance coverage through Fortune 500 employer, along with his career with the firm, and the lifestyle it provided. Our health insurance was downsized to health/hospital only, so I've truly had a rude awakening with PM drug costs out of pocket.

My PM doctor wanted to start me on Fentanyl patch back in January upon initial consult. (due to extensive mal-absorption issues from stomach "pouch") I'd used that successfully several years ago through PM, but with 72 hour change intervals. I clearly remember the initial relief, but also the wrenching dry-heave withdrawals before 72 hour period. The doctor then would not discuss 48 hour change out, so I stopped altogether.

That was almost 9 years ago. Now the 48 hour change interval would not be a problem. The cost of 15(?) patches per month of 50 mcg (with no insurance) IS a problem. My PM is trying to work with me, saying that OxyContin is the second from the top of the ladder to Fentanyl for ER med. He KNOWS I can't afford it without coverage, so for now I have no choice but the Oxycodone. Vickie, it does exactly as you described...hits hard and makes me goofy(er) for a couple of hours...then GONE. It doesn't change the pain, more so "perception" of pain.

I confess I am afraid to take the recommended dosing amounts for fear of quickly creating tolerance issues. I am scheduled for 15 mg 4xday, which could possibly make my life less of a living HELL. However, I white knuckle through with half that amount out of pure, unmitigated fear of addiction (or rapid increase of mgs) I understand dependence vs. addiction, and I've made peace with that. At 53, I need less pain through chemistry, no doubt.

I'm just not sure how I can afford it. My husband and I are blessed to have a good combined income, but it would quickly be depleted with costs of $400+ per month for 1 med. His genetic heart condition requires (5) separate meds monthly, 3 unavailable in generic. I have extensive intestinal/female/spinal issues that require several maintenance meds monthly just to keep my gastrointestinal system functioning (and my body in an upright position). I certainly don't mean to come across as whining, as we are blessed in so many ways. It has been (and continues to be) astounding that our income exceeds parameters for PPA (DO NOT qualify).  Yet our income falls short of the ability to spend $1000+ per month out of pocket. We, like many Americans, have fallen through the proverbial cracks.

Vickie, my PM (due to cost restraints) tried Methadone (NO) then MS Contin (NO) now Oxycodone (prefers ER form). I've researched the changed formulation of OxyC, so I fear exactly what you describe, even if I could afford it. I can't help but feel like I've slid into Alice's rabbit hole, kicking and screaming that I can't "afford" to stay for tea=(

Again, I remain open to all thoughts and suggestions y'all can offer me. Meanwhile, I wish for all who suffer...much needed relief.

Thank Y'all~~Dixie

Post Edited (Dixie6) : 10/30/2014 9:34:25 AM (GMT-6)

Our health insurance has downsized, as stated, so it no longer covers prescriptions.  That's the problem.

Thanks~~Dixie

Especially now in the days of ACA, getting insurance coverage is much easier and far more affordable. I picked it up in January.

My UC meds were 1200 a month, out of pocket, with no insurance. With insurance, I pay 10. That is my most relevant example. Hydrocodone was 90, now is 9.95. My PCP prescribed oxy to try, another 5 bucks, but the hydrocodone with the acetaminophen was far more effective for me. Tramadol was 75, now 5. What I have saved in medication costs pays for my monthly policy three times over.

If you are on multiple meds, it really is far more cost-effective to check out ACA programs. I know you are in the south, which has been having political issues with implementation of the law.

If you receive better relief from the drug then by all means $ is worth it.

Of course it's a personal decision. I had the same problem one worked way better than the other. After THR surgery. Lasts longer.
Pain was easier to geal with and therefore I had a better opportunity to heal better. Hen the pain is so overwhelming I wanted something that worked.

I'm absolutely it tractates that u would have to be out in this position to pay more for the meds u need. It's rediculous...I had to read what u wrote twice to beleive how twisted this issue has become for RX policies to cover certain meds. I AM VERY sorry
That prescription drugs has so many stipulations. The people that need it pay a heavy price for being sick as it is.. UR right this is just a kick in the teeth.

Likely, you would have to move to the new insurance policy completely. I would think they would not cover 'prescriptions' only.

But I do not know--do check pricing on Federal site. It might be a better plan than what is offered through workplace, although you wouldn't have your workplace pitching in.

If you and your husband together need medications, it really is the only way to go. Before I chose which plan to go with, I did spread sheets for my three top choices. I plugged in doctor's appointments, testing, medications, therapy, etc. Even checked the colonoscopy pricing. I was really very surprised by the information I found. There is a wide variety of plans available, and it really helped translate the percentages of this and the set prices of that into real money terms.

Now, what I have heard is that some rural areas and some states with stiff political opposition are having real trouble with both pricing of plans as well as offering a variety. I was lucky, for there were over 40 plans available within my parameters, all with pharmacy coverage, with differing levels of co=pays. This was of great importance to me, with 7 different medications daily. I have had no problems with getting coverage or with continuing my medications, getting appointments, etc.

Thanks, Myself=)

Is it rude to ask which plan you went with?  I am clueless about ACA, as our insurance has always been employer provided (and paid for).  That creates yet another matter to ponder.  I live in the deep South, so I'm quite certain politics will muddy the proverbial waters.

It sounds as though you definitely did your homework   I NEED your policy to cover multiple meds for husband and me sans the PM meds.  Lord, I shudder at the thought of doing that math.  My PM doctor, (though bat poop crazy) acknowledges my dire need for pain relief...wants to give me back my life...or a slice of it.  He told me, almost verbatim to Vickie's post, that I need to be ABSOLUTELY sure that ALL potential meds are covered...no matter the policy...buyer beware!

BTW...employer not only "pitches in" on monthly premium (though coverage downsized) He swings for the fences, as salary benefit. I'm befuddled at best. Oh, and "rural" is an upgrade...We're 2 hours from anywhere.

Thanks~~Dixie

Dixie6 said...
My depression has deepened as I've lost hope of ever getting relief. I wake up every morning wishing I hadn't...ever. Is that what you mean?

I don't have anything to add on what meds or insurance would be the best route but I just want to say I'm sorry you've been going through so much. :(

Hi Dixie I was on Oxycontin for many many years. Before they reformulated it to prevent abuse, I was taking it every 12 hours, after the reformulation, it did not give me the 12 hour coverage, and my PM changed it to every 8 hours and that worked great! I was then given Percocet ( Oxycodone and Tylenol) for break through. I had been on this for allot of years and it worked great! When I moved down to Kentucky there was a problem no one down here would prescribe Oxycontin, and if you got the prescription, the pharmacies here would only fill it if it was written for 12 hour usage, as they said that is what it was made for and not to be given every 8 hours!!!. Anyway it was such a hassle and I got tired of driving the 300 miles one way back to my old PM every month, so with his help and a referral to the Indiana University hospital pain clinic, I was able to get the implanted pain pump and was taken off all oral pain medications.

I will admit that Oxycontin was a real Godsend! It was one of the only pain medications that didn't make me sleepy or having that doped up feeling! All it did for me was relieve my pain! If Oxycodone works well for you then I am sure Oxycontin would probably work even better! I know it is expensive, and when it comes to prescription medications I am very fortunate, as since I am retired military, I get my prescriptions from Tricare for life and my co-pay was about 15 dollars for a months supply of Oxycontin (90 tablets) Now I get most of my medications from the VA and there is no co-pay, but they would not fill the script for Oxycontin.

Anyway I do wish you well, I know that health insurance with prescription coverage is expensive, and for allot of people they are caught between a rock and a hard place! It is no surprise that companies are dropping their prescription coverage with their medical insurance, the way the laws are changing it is making it difficult for everyone to get adequate medical care!

Good Luck!

White Beard

Hey White Beard and Cogito...Thank you for your input on Oxycodone/OxyContin.  It just keeps getting deeper for me IF my pharmacy won't fill the doctor's script for OxyContin.  He says OxyContin is the last step before he insists on Fentanyl. I don't want to "skip" the trial of OxyContin.  I prefer to delay Fentanyl as long as possible.

The depressive, sedating meds are not a good fit for me as I FIGHT severe depression.  My pain med must be more of a stimulant if possible.  I cannot be "on my game" career-wise if I'm a zombie.  I have to be alert and concise at all times.  That's tough when you feel like you want to CLAW your eyeballs out of your face.  I know...too graphic, but that's my life.  I like the little "punch" of energy as it moves me FORWARD, and changes my perception of pain.

Thanks y'all...Have a restful evening=)

~~Dixie

Dixie that is the thing about these meds they all affect people differently! I know that pain meds that contain Hydrocodone make me feel wired and dopey, and when I take them I am up all night! But for most people they make them drowsy and sleepy and lethargic. On the other hand, Oxycodone does not have hardly any affect on me, except for relieving my pain. So the only real way to know how it is going to affect you is to try it. It might work really good for you since you said that the immediate acting Oxycodone works well for you. But again maybe you will not like it? But I would definitely think is worth trying if you can find a way to get it without breaking your budget!

I hope you can find a way to get your pain under control soon!

White Beard

Hi Dixie,
Re: your body "needing" a particular analgesic just because it works. On my personal front in the war on Pain, my body still doesn't seem to have developed much of a dependence on Oxycodone IR. I know that it prefers to have it in its system because it does reduce my pain but I've gone 3-4 days without it and no problems with WDs. Does that answer your question about needing it? I think that your idea of a partial script is a possibility considering your financial straits but a 2 week trial run is unlikely to give you a full answer to your pain problem. It's better than nothing though. . . Q