Do I need to stop narcotics before shoulder surgery?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 34 years old and have been going to pain management for almost a year now because of the need for a shoulder replacement. I am prescribed Narco 10 mg thrice a day. I have been doing drug testing every month for seven years. I have only tested positive for opioids two times. I have offered to let them watch me go to the restroom and do a blood test. Then I could recollect taking four narcotics within 16 hours because of intense pain. I have shown them my medication, Adderall 30 mg (twice a day), Effexor 150 mg (once a day), Lisinopril 20 mg, Hctz 12.5 mg, Inderal 20 mg (twice daily), Alprazolam 1 mg, Benedryl 100 mg (once a day), Advil 800 mg and they verified it as narco. I have an appointment in four days and I will have three that day. I will take only two and I'm sure it will come out negative, then upon showing them the last pill (on schedule) and take it in front of them and take another test in an hour or so. Is there some kind of condition that can explain this? The doctor treats me with distrust no matter anything. Even the local laboratories say that the pathologist does not speak with people. Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern and will help you with your query. The detecting test for narcotic substances usually comes positive if the substance accumulated in the blood is in enough concentration. I suggest you follow a few instructions mentioned below. For pain, an opioid-like medication that is derived from opiates can be used as a last resort if Ibuprofen or other analgesics are not working. Anti-depressants drugs and anti-anxiety drugs can be prescribed for depression. Yoga, and meditation (up to the limit that you can do because of shoulder problems) will be beneficial in relieving depression. Amphetamine is a sympathetic stimulation drug that can be taken if prescribed by a doctor. Treating the cause of pain is essential. Surgical management can be carried out if you are fit for surgery. Kindly consult a specialist, talk to them, and take medications with their consent. I hope this has helped you. Thank you.