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Facts
About Methadone
The following information is only intended to provide you
with common knowledge about Methadone. After reading 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
after 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 you 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 (breaks 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 then 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 reaction, 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. |
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