When a pt gets their meds involuntarily reduced and/or stopped abruptly for some reason. No one can predict what is going to happen. The graphic at the bottom of this post that shows the possible co-morbidity complications from dramatically reduced doses and/or cold turkey withdrawal. Some pt will suffer a hypertensive crisis (200/100 +) and end up having a stroke or heart attack.
Some have been known to commit suicide, because they cannot deal with the intensity of their now untreated pain. Combined with some degree of withdrawal. The withdrawal issues will dissipate over several days, but the intensity of their pain will not go away and may in fact get worse.
The story below is/was real. It was published in a national Pharmacy magazine abt 40 yrs ago. The picture, I had a AI program to generate, and the coffin is closed for a good reason. When a person takes a gun to their head to stop their unbearable pain, It is not the last sight for many to see as they are saying goodbye to a friend or family member.
Filed under: General Problems
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