I have not ventured to say in how short a time confirmed habits of opium-eating may be abandoned. In my own case it was thirty-nine days, but with my present experience I should greatly prefer to extend the time to at least sixty days; and this chiefly with reference to the violent effects upon the constitution produced by the suddenness of the change of habit. Some constitutions may possibly require less time and some probably, more. While I regard the abandonment of the first three-quarters of the accustomed allowance as being a much easier task than the last quarter, and one which can be accomplished with comparative impunity in a brief period, I would allow at least twice the time for the experiment of dispensing with the last quarter; unless, indeed, I should be apprehensive that my resolution might break down through the absence of the excitement which is unquestionably afforded by the feeling that you are engaged in a deadly but doubtful conflict. So far, also, as can be inferred from cases subsequently narrated in this volume, the probability of success would seem to be enhanced by devoting a longer time to the trial. It can not, however, be too often repeated, that however slow or however rapid the pace may be, the rule to be rigidly observed is this: Never to increase the minimum dose that has once been attained. This is the only rule of safety, and by adhering to it, persons in infirm health, or with weakened powers of resolution, will ultimately succeed in their efforts.
I subjoin my own record of the quantity of opium daily consumed, for the possible encouragement of such opium-eaters as may be disposed to make trial of their own resources in the endurance of bodily and mental distress.
Saturday, Nov. 25....80 grains, = 2000 drops of laudanum. Sunday, " 26....60 " 1500 " " Monday, " 27....50 " 1250 " " Tuesday, " 28....40 " 1000 " " Wednesday, " 29....30 " 750 " " Thursday, " 30....25 " 625 " " Friday, Dec. 1....20 " 500 " " --- ----- Average of 1st week....44 " 1089 " "
Saturday, Dec. 2.....19 grains, = 475 drops of laudanum. Sunday, " 3.....18 " 450 " " Monday, " 4.....17 " 425 " " Tuesday, " 5.....16 " 400 " " Wednesday, " 6.....15 " 375 " " Thursday, " 7.....15 " 375 " " Friday, " 8.....15 " 375 " " ---- ---- Average of 2d week.....16.43" 411 " "