pain
"I have had 3 major back surgeries in 6 years. Last surgery fused me at 3 levels, taken Hydrocodene for years, was becoming seriously addicted before last surgery. 2 years after last surgery in Nov. 2014 back, hip and leg pain started to return. My pain management doctor suggested Butrans patches, 10mcg/hour every 7 days a new patch.  10mcg was too strong, sleep all the time, so switched to 5mcg didn't sleep but had no noticeable pain relief. Upped dosage to 7.5mcg/hour patch and have decent pain relief, still need hydrocodene 5mg for break thru pain occasionally. I have been on the patches for almost 5 months. Now experiencing joint and muscle pain in arms, wrists and knees.  Hate to give up the patch but still sleepy all the time, no energy."