Frequently Asked Methadone Treatment Questions

Despite being one of the most popular treatment methods for opioid dependence, there are still a couple of questions surrounding the use of methadone. It is understandable considering that not everyone agrees with the implementation of methadone treatment. To give you a better understanding, let’s take a look at some methadone treatment questions.

What is Methadone?

This is the most basic question that anyone should ask about the treatment. Basically, it is a type of drug used not only for the treatment of opiate addiction, but also for relieving pain. It is important to point out that methadone is strictly used for opioid related addiction and not applicable for other types like cocaine, marijuana, or alcohol among others.
What does it do?

Methadone works by blocking the receptors of the brain that is affected by the use of heroin and other opiates. This allows addicts to achieve gradual detoxification without the violent withdrawal symptoms. This means that methadone will occupy the receptors to block high opiates and achieve a more stable feeling. The addict will have reduced cravings and tempered withdrawal symptoms that lowers the risk of relapse. This is done by simulating the same sense of euphoria that opiates deliver but with longer lasting effects so that a single dose a day would be sufficient for most addicts.
Is the Treatment Safe?

There are obvious concerns when it comes to the safety of the treatment. However, when methadone is used as it is prescribed, it can be safely taken even continuously over a number of years without experiencing dangerous side effects. Methadone has also gone through rigorous testing to ensure its safety and efficacy when applied as a treatment for narcotic dependence and withdrawal.

As a type of legal medication, its production is handled by licensed pharmaceutical companies subjected to strict monitoring and quality control standards. The administration is also supervised by a physician using strict guidelines. As far as mental impairment, intoxication, or feeling of sedation, none of these are associated with methadone so patients can continue to pursue normal and ordinary activities.

Is the Treatment Effective?

For over 30 years methadone has been used for the effective treatment of opioid dependence and addiction. To back up its claims of effectiveness, numerous scientific research works have been done. One such study was done in 1994 where a methadone maintenance treatment was linked to lower rates of criminality, illegal drug use, and hospitalization of addicts compared to other popularly used drug treatment programs.

Are there Side Effects?

What kind of side effects can you experience when going through the program if any? If we are to base on studies, there are no significant side effects that can be expected from the medically supervised implementation of the methadone treatment. Most common reports include water retention, skin rash, drowsiness, constipation, excessive sweating, and change in libido. The side effects disappear once that patient gets the proper individual dosage.

What are the Benefits?

Aside from what has already been stated, safe and effective, one desirable benefit of the methadone treatment program is that it is the most affordable choice for most opiate addicts. Other benefits are the relief from withdrawal symptoms, return of chemical balance, reduced cravings, and emotional balance. All of these benefits will result in the return of normal bodily functions, improved relationships, and overall stability of the patient.

Will it Show on Drug Tests?

If your concern is turning positive on drug tests, then you will be happy to know that methadone does not return a positive unlike heroin or morphine. Specific testing for methadone should be done to be able to detect its presence in your system. The good news is that this type of specific testing is not normally done. In the United States, supervised methadone maintenance programs fall under the Americans with Disabilities Act so it cannot be used as a basis for denying employment.

There are definitely more methadone treatment questions creeping in your mind. To get the right answers, contact Towards Recovery Clinics now.