I was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia at 30 yrs old. And it destroyed every aspect of life: my career as a 1st grade teacher, the quality of life in marriage, motherhood, family, and friendships. Pain robbed my emotional strength; life consisted of surviving the day and praying for sleep to escape the pain. Doctor after doctor attempted to dismiss my symptoms, my pain and my anguish; hope faded and compassion was far and few between from those in the medical field. And then I found "The Center for Pain" in Montgomery, Alabama; the doctors believed that my pain was real, respected my needs and extended compassion while creating a treatment plan. I've remained on the same treatment plan/dosage for over five years; my pain is controlled, and with minimal side effects. I actually have more energy with this med; there seems to be a direct correlation between energy and the level of pain. I've never experienced that "loopy, woozy" feeling that's found in short-acting pain medication; allowing me to function in any situation. This medication literally gave me my life back; I highly recommend MS Contin to anyone dealing with chronic pain, regardless of the initial cause. Published: January 16, 2008 ::

I am only 28 years old and have been suffering with chronic pain for about 5-6 years. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and spondyloarthrpathy about two years ago. It seems that being young keeps many doctors from believing a person of my age can hurt as bad as I do. I ran the gamut of pain meds with earlier doctors starting with tramodol, darvocet,and lortab. When I explained to them that I was not getting the relief that I needed, they did'nt seem to want to try anything different. I finally found a doctor willing to accept and believe my condition. I now take 60mg 3x's a day, plus 10mg percocet every 6 hrs. for breakthrough pain. The only side effect is a rather nasty headache that will last about 2-3 hrs. after the MS kicks in, and general constipation. I am growing tolerant to the MS, but the doc told me that he could increase my dosage if needed. Thank God for understanding and caring doctors who don't dwell on the thought that everyone who takes pain meds is or will become a junkie. If the med works don't be ashamed to use it, and don't worry about what other people think about you. To all of those suffering out there, may God ease your pain and brighten your days! Published: January 06, 2009 ::

I have been taking MS Contin for three months due to three herniated disks in the lumbar area of my back. The doctors first started me on Vicodin ES 7.5/750, but that never really helped with all the pain. They then proceeded to give me Percocet 5/325, but it didn't ever seem to last the 6 hours it claims. I would get about 2-3 hours of pain relief before having to take another. The doctor was concerned about my acetaminophen intake so they put me on Norco 10/325. These were much stronger than the previous medications and they lasted the 4-6 hours that they stated. Although helping more, they never really worked completely for my chronic pain. When the doctor told me he was prescribing morphine, my wife and I were a little worried about the physical dependence that surrounds this drug. I was also worried I would be a vegetable and lose all of my drive to do anything. This was hardly the case. Within the first week of taking this medication, I felt no pain for most of the day. I was still able to take the Norco for breakthrough pain, but that has been cut down dramatically. But now I can do things again. I take 15mgs q 8 hours. Having been someone who has never really been on a dosing schedule for medication, it is a little difficult to remember to dose. In the past the pain would always tell me when I needed to dose. It took me a little while to get it through my head that I need to take this med even if I am not in acute pain, but I made it work. This pain med does not really last the 8 hours stated. In my opinion, maybe 6-7. I am definitely not regular in the bowel department, but I take Colace and Dulcolax almost everyday to help with the annoying constipation that this strong narcotic brings with it. It does make me sleepy for the first hour or two after taking it, but my body adjusts and everything is great afterwards. The cost was a definite plus for me. With my insurance, I paid for generic morphine sulfate ER 15mg 270 tabs for $20 US. Published: February 01, 2009 ::

I have tried sooo many different types of pain killer's and finally my Dr. tried ms contin 60 mg @ 4 times a day. I feel absolutely no pain 24/7. I just thought I would never be pain free again. Published: December 09, 2008 ::

I have had chronic pain from numerous back surgeries. This medicine has taken almost all my pain away all day. It was hard the first few days, nauseau, dizzy, etc. But now, I can hardly tell I have taken anything, except no pain! Published: November 12, 2007 ::