At MethadoneClinic.com, we are here to provide you with high quality information related to the treatment of an opioid addiction through methadone.

Methadone is an opioid pain reliever, similar in many ways to morphine. Although this medication is an opioid itself, it has been used to treat people with an addiction to heroin (or another type of opioid) for more than 45 years.

Many people have successfully overcome their addiction by using methadone during detoxification and maintenance programs.

How should I Use Methadone?

Those who are interested in using methadone as a means of beating an opioid addiction must consult with an experienced medical professional. Many people receive this treatment through a methadone clinic or rehab facility.

When relying on methadone as part of a drug treatment program, you will receive the medication via your clinic, rehab facility, or special pharmacy.

It is important to note that you should never take this prescription medication unless you have the consent of a medical professional.

Methadone is available in many forms, including:

• Oral tablets
• Oral solution
• Injection

In today’s day and age, most people prefer oral tablets or solution as it is much easier to administer.

Note: the oral solution should never be injected directly into the blood stream.

Methadone Side Effects

Despite the many benefits of methadone treatment, there are side effects that could come into playing during use. Your doctor or methadone clinic will discuss these with you, ensuring that you know what to look for as your treatment continues.

Some of the most common side effects are as follows:

Methadone can help you overcome opiate addiction!

• Anxious or nervous feeling
• Trouble getting to sleep
• Drowsiness
• Weak feeling
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Impotence
• Decreased sex drive

There are other side effects that are considered to be more serious. These include:

• Abnormally low blood pressure
• Feeling faint
• Slow heartbeat
• Collapsed lung
• Decrease in lung function
• Fast heartbeat
• Trouble breathing
• Feeling of confusion

If you are taking methadone and experiencing any side effects outside the norm, contact your medical professional immediately.

Can I miss a Dose?

As with any prescription medication, it is not suggested that you miss a dose. If you do, it is important to take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and move on. You should never use extra medication to make up for the dose you missed, as taking too much at once can be harmful.

Note: if you have missed three doses in a row, call your doctor or contact your methadone clinic for advice on what to do next.

Is it Possible to Overdose?

Taking more than the prescribed amount can lead to an overdose. If you feel that this has happened, seek emergency medical attention without delay.

Some of the symptoms associated with an overdose include:

• Shallow breathing
• Confusion
• Cold skin
• Clammy skin
• Weak pulse
• Fainting
• Drowsiness

Important Information

Just the same as other narcotic medications, there are side effects of methadone. Along with this, stopping the use of this medicine without the consent and oversight of your doctor can be dangerous.

A sudden stop in usage could lead to several withdrawal symptoms. When it is time to stop taking this medication, your medical team can lead you through the process so that you are able to deal with the symptoms accordingly.

Until you know how you will affected by methadone, do not drink alcohol, operate a motor vehicle, or operate heavy machinery. This drug can impair your thinking.