Question
Hello !
I have severe back problems stemming from a lifelong condition of sciatica plus stenosis of the lower spine.
I am allergic to both the HYDROCORDIN & OXYCORDIN because when I take them I get abdominal pains, a burning sensation in my sternum, and I fear that this might lead to an ulcer.  The Codeine for which I am also prescribed by my physician causes the same side effects for me.  I only take the medication(s) for Pain Mgmt when my back problems 'kick in' so that I can get some sleep.
Is there any other Pain Medication I can take which will not cause me any of these terrible side effects ?
Please advise !
Thanks !

Answer
I am allergic to both the HYDROCORDIN & OXYCORDIN because when I take them I get abdominal pains, a burning sensation in my sternum, and I fear that this might lead to an ulcer.

- there is nothing in most formulations that increases risk of ulcers.  You may be able to take these medications if you use something for the adverse effects when you take them.  Something for abdominal cramping (there are several options) and something for nausea may help the burning sensation.

The difficulty is that Hydrocodone - which converts to Hydromorphone in the body and Oxycodone and Codeine which converts to morphine in the body cover a really HUGE chunk of the current medications that we have for pain control.

My first option would be to avoid the GI tract altogethor because of your sensativity.  Fentanyl patches provide pain control for 3 days transdermally (through the skin).  They are VERY powerful - something in the order of 27 times as potent as oxycodone.  That would provide consistent powerful pain relief that was not exceedingly expensive AND avoids the problems with your stomach.

TAKING MEDICATIONS ONLY WHEN PROBLEMS KICK IN.

I am not really an advocate of not using some pain medication regularly for chronic pain patients.  The reason being is that it is far more difficult to STOP pain than it is to prevent pain.  I like the fentanyl patches again because it will give you round the clock pain control that may really improve the quality of your life.  

Talk to your doctor about these patches - they are usually reasonable about prescribing them because they are difficult to abuse and have a low street value compared to tablets of hydrocodone or oxycodone.

Check back with me if you have anymore questions.

Dr. J-