Safe to stop taking hydrocodone and xanax cold turkey?

Question

I have been taking 2- 5/500 mg hydrocodone and 1 mg of xanax per day for 9 months. Is it safe to stop taking these drugs cold turkey? I have already tried to come off the hydrocodone but can't seem to get below 1 pill a day (the pain tends to be unbearable). And I'm concerned about coming off the xanax cold (since it's a benzo) I take they hydrocodone for chronic pain, but it isn't helping, now I feel semi-addicted. Any input or resources?

Answer 1

If i where you i would on your next appt with your doctor let him know you want to wean off of those medications. He can lower the dose of these meds for you which i think would be the best way to do it.

Hydrocodone can be lowered from 5/500 to a 2.5/350 if im not mistaken or somthing similar to that decrease in dossage.

The xanax can be lowered from 1mg to 0.5mg and 0.25mg.

If the pain meds are not helping ask the doctor if something else can be given thats LESS addictive. Best thing is to go over this with your doctor.

Answer 2

no you need to wean off of those medications.   You can discuss with your doctor your options and a schedule for coming off of those medications by taking a lower and lower dose until you are finally able to drop it all together.  But no, they aren't safe to stop cold turkey.