|
|
Facts About Methadone
The following information is only intended to provide you
with common knowledge about Methadone. After rading this
you may consult your counselor or the nursing staff if
you have any questions or comments.
Methadone is a narcotic agonist. This means that methadone
works in specific areas in your brain and spinal system to
reduce/eliminate the effects of the opiates, ("pain
pills" or heroin) that you take. Methadone is a medication.
It is not a "miracle cure," but if used appropriately,
can significantly alter the life someone suffering from opiate
addiction for the better.
The clinic physician prescribes methadone to relieve opiate
withdrawal symptoms and reduce the cravings for opiates.
Studies have shown that if withdrawal symptoms and cravings
are reduced with methadone, people suffering from opiate
addiction can effectively engage in rehabilitative activities
such as working, taking care of their families and enjoying
social activities. Methadone does not relieve cravings for
drugs other than opiates.
Therapeutic Dose
When used in proper doses in maintenance treatment, methadone
does not create euphoria, sedation or an analgesic effect.
To reach a therapeutic dose, you will work closely with the
medical staff and your counselor on adjusting your dose to
meet your individualized needs. To achieve this therapeutic
dose, it is very important that you dose daily. Missed doses
can lead to opiate withdrawal and cravings and lead to relapse.
The liver metabolizes (break down and processes) methadone,
but methadone does not "harm" the liver. Methadone
is actually much easier for the liver to metabolize than
many other types of medications.
Methadone does not damage the immune system. In fact, several
studies suggest that HIV-positive people who are taking methadone
are healthier and live longer than those who are still using
illicit opiates. |
Possible side effects and adverse reactions
People have been taking methadone for more than 30 years,
and there has been no evidence that long-term use causes
any physical damage. Some people do suffer some side effects
from methadone—such as constipation, increased sweating
and dry mouth-but these usually go away over time or with
dose adjustments. Other effects, such as menstrual abnormalities
and decreased sexual desire, have been reported by some people
but have not been clearly linked to methadone use. Adverse
reactions are rare, but can occur such as an allergic reactions,
excessive sedation ("too sleepy") or respiratory
distress (problems breathing). Methadone is used for replacement
therapy. The addiction/chemical dependency already existed
in your body before methadone was administered. Thus, you
will develop a physical dependence on methadone and treatment
should not be discontinued abruptly and without medical supervision.
Side Effects of Methadone
The most frequent side effects of methadone are:
1- sedation
2- decreased blood pressure
3- sweating
4- facial flushing
5- constipation
6- dizziness
7- nausea and vomiting
The most serious reaction is in an overdose: especially if
used
with illicit drugs:
1-respiratory depression
2-muscIe weakness
3-cold or clammy skin
4-cyanosis or blue tinge to skin due to lack of oxygen
5-seizure
6-coma
7-death |
|
