Methadone Overview

What is Methadone?

Methadone is an effective tool in the treatment of heroin addiction, and it is also prescribed for chronic pain relief. It's inexpensive, making it an excellent choice for state-funded drug addiction treatment programs as well as for those who must pay for a large percentage of their medication. However, it is highly addictive in its own right and a methadone detox can mete out severe withdrawal symptoms, creating a new generation of methadone addicts who want nothing more than to break their addiction to the drug.

Methadone Overview Articles

How is Methadone Administered?

When prescribed for pain management, methadone is taken orally in tablet form as need for pain. If your stomach becomes upset with use, eating food or drinking milk with the medication may minimize this effect. You should only take your methadone as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose or supplement with other drugs if it is not efficiently alleviating your pain; instead, tell your doctor and have him or her adjust your dose.

In opiate addiction treatment programs, methadone is strongly regulated and dispensed only in clinics in liquid form. If you are taking this drug as part of state-funded detox program, your dose will be lowered over time. Do not stop using this drug without the knowledge and consent of your healthcare practitioner. Extended use of methadone will result in dependence and tolerance to this medication. It is not advised that you miss even one dose as it will result in methadone withdrawal symptoms.

What Drug Interactions Should I Avoid When Taking Methadone?

If you are using any of the following drugs, your doctor should be told so that you can avoid a negative drug interaction:

Diuretics
Laxatives
MAO inhibitors
Narcotic pain relievers
St. John's wort
Psychiatric medicine
Tranquilizers
Sleeping pills
Zidovudine
Didianosine
Efavirenz
Nevirapine
Stavudine
Macrolide antibiotics
Antihistamines

This is a general list, so make sure that your doctor knows about all the vitamins, herbal supplements, home remedies and other prescription medications you are taking. Also, consult your physician or pharmacist before starting a new over the counter medication.

What are the Side Effects of Methadone?

If you are using methadone, your doctor may have already discussed its side effects with you. If you experience fainting, depression, hallucinations, mental confusion, rapid heart rate, seizures, anxiety, irritability or tremors you should speak to you physician right away. Some side effects are considered quite normal during methadone use and include constipation, dizziness, blurred vision, upset stomach and lightheadedness. Your doctor may be able to assist you if any of these side effects disrupt your life.

What Else Should I Know When Taking Methadone?

Your methadone prescription should not be abused. Never inject methadone. Always take it as directed. Patients who have ever had a head injury, heart diseases, liver disease, stomach problems, breathing disorders, kidney disease, seizure disorders, depression or low mineral levels in the blood should explain their condition to their doctor. Methadone can be found in breast milk, so tell your doctor if you plan to breastfeed while using this medication. If you are pregnant, your newborn may be harmed if this drug is used in the last stages of gestation. You should never take more of this medication than directed, so if you miss your dose, do not double your next scheduled dose. Also, methadone is sensitive to heat and light. Keep this drug away from areas where it may be exposed to these conditions.

How Does Meditox Treat Methadone Addiction?

Meditox can treat your addiction to methadone with an evidence-based drug called buprenorphine that has been proven to limit withdrawal symptoms during a methadone detox. Our doctors are specialists in all forms of drug abuse treatment and will be able to determine the safest and most productive method of treatment for your particular situation. At Meditox, our treatment programs are individualized to suit your needs. Stop living a life of methadone addiction. Call Meditox today to find out how we can help you break free from opiate addiction.

If you feel that Meditox might be the right solution for you or your loved one, please call us for a toll-free and private consultation:

Additional Resources

Wikipedia: Methadone Information
Office of National Drug Control Policy: Methadone Fact Sheet

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