@MancBee well done for how far you've come, it must of been incredibly difficult. (Hopefully it doesn't sound patronising!) I fully agree with you though with regards to the meds. The tramadol actually comes under a class C and should only have enough to cover 1 prescription of technically a max of 28days worth plus signing and ID to collect . I'm pretty sure there is far more than that, as someone who has been on various controlled meds for several years and quite cautious due to the lasting effects of mixed prescriptions. (All done under hospital consultants).
Not patronising at all, though it was a Damascus moment. The recovery after a few days "off my face" became unbearable. Having days where I had no recollection of what I had done, or where I had been was a bit scary too. It was surprising that the people I associated with always told me what I great weekend we'd all had, even though I had scant memory of any of it. I no longer associate with the majority of those people. I don't even drink anymore, I just seem to come to my senses, many don't.
I agree that JM would benefit from a medication regime review. Everyone knows that long term painkiller use reduces it's effectiveness. Addiction to prescribed medication is as difficult to acknowledge in yourself as illegal drugs. Probable more difficult as it is facilitated by a medical professional, so you convince yourself that it's ok.
pain are the most common of prescription medication to be abused.
My friend who was sectioned the other day has had a life time of Bi Polar medication reviews, and has been sectioned many times before. This is because the medication needs adjusting and the mania or depression kicks in. Medication reviews need to be done regularly and often, especially when you are paying for private prescriptions for controlled drugs, clearly not sanctioned by a GP.
I don't say this lightly, but in my opinion (don't sue me, it's an opinion) she needs medical intervention, and fast. Those close to her need to make that difficult telephone call.