in reply to @galesr I have been following this thread about chronic pain and medication for the same, and I can say with honesty that I have not run into any problems having my scheduled medications filled by my doctor. Last month I ran a few days early and when I requested a refill I commented that the medication has not been controlling the pain, and my doctor went ahead a refilled the medication for me. Granted, I have asked for stronger medications, and did try adding the methadone back into the mix a couple of months ago, but my body rejected it. I was glad because I really did not want to go back on this medication. What I do find astonishing, as does my pharmacist, is that my doctor will not reconsider giving me a rx for a pain patch, in light of the fact that he keeps telling me that the pain medication I take orally may be the root cause of my liver damage. I was on a fentanyl patch for many years until I fell into the Medicare donut hole, at which time I was given the methadone to use in conjunction with the Norco for breakthrough pain. While I have been advised not to take Advil, I do take it because in many cases it works better than the Norco. I just have to remember to take it with food, Oy vey.
At this point in my life I am not worried about drug dependence because the medication is the only thing that allows me to live a full and happy life. I am sorry for those of you who suffer as you do, as I understand intractable pain. Ice has become my best friend.