I feel like we should be shouting out loud about this but then we really would be considered a drug addict. Unfortunately, I do feel stigmatized from using an opiod, even though I only take 1 a day and have for over 10 years. I can't take any nsaids at all. It does work for me and it means I can have a normalish life and at least function. If a person does not need them that is great. But no one is inside my body dealing with chronic pain. Thankfully I have a understanding doctor who treats me a real person. I can bet there are many more out there who are reading this that are afraid to respond as then they may feel like a drug addict too. I was there but now I love reading how it has actually helped others instead of made them suffer. If they come out with something that works just as well but is not an option I would try it. I was put on an antidepressant for pain 4 years ago. What a joke, not to mention trying to taper off of it which actually took 3 years to do. It messed me up really bad. I have zero bad reactions to an opiod so that is what I use.
Didn't mean to go off on a tirade.