Breaking the Addiction Cycle

Grateful Patient Shares His Journey of Opiate Addiction After Surgery

Russell Faulkenberry

Russell is a big advocate for the use of medications that treat opiate use disorders. He regularly shares his story with other patients and medical students who rotate through Dr. Holmes’ office

When 60-year-old Russell Faulkenberry had double hip replacement surgery in 2019, it did more than solve a challenging joint problem. His recovery also triggered an addiction to opiate pain pills, which set him on a path to seek help.

Fortunately, PIH Health was there in his time of need.

“I’ve struggled with my addictive nature for years,” said Russell, a Pico Rivera resident. “I was addicted to methamphetamine and cocaine years ago, but was proud to be clean and sober since 2001.”

That all changed after his surgery, when Russell found himself taking 90 days’ worth of oxycodone in one week. Embarrassed to ask his doctor for more, Russell quickly found himself feeling isolated. He started avoiding social events and regular outings— focusing instead on his next fix. “I felt very alone,” he said.

Because of his history with substance use, he knew what was happening—a new addiction was forming. So in August 2019, Russell courageously broke the cycle by sharing his struggle with his physical therapist who referred him to Randolph Holmes MD, a PIH Health family medicine and addiction medicine specialist. Together, they transitioned Russell from oxycodone to buprenorphine (known by the brand name Suboxone).

“Buprenorphine helps eliminate cravings and withdrawal symptoms, and has become the standard medication we now use for most opiate addictions,” says Dr. Holmes. “Russell felt better almost immediately and was very glad to break free from the opiate addiction cycle. He has been stable on this medication and hasn’t returned to opiate use in the past three years.”

Today, Russell is a big advocate for the use of medications that treat opiate use disorders. He regularly shares his story with other patients and medical students who rotate through Dr. Holmes’ office.

“This medication has been a lifesaver— it’s granted me freedom from my addiction to pain pills, and I’m forever grateful,” said Russell, who is happily back to enjoying normal life.

To find a primary care doctor, visit PIHHealth.org/PrimaryCare.

To learn more about substance abuse, visit PIHHealth.org/Substance.