Methadone: Purpose, Uses, Side Effects, and Risks

However, factors like age, general health, length of time you used methadone, and others can affect your withdrawal timeline and symptoms. A dose of methadone may last 24 to 36 hours, although the exact time varies from person to person. While the drug does not produce the same intense high as heroin or other opioids, it can still produce some pleasurable effects.

Located in beautiful South Florida, Archstone Behavioral Health offers a serene and comforting environment for your treatment and healing journey. Our approach to treatment stands out from typical detox programs Florida centers provide. We offer a full continuum of care on our campus – from admissions to discharge, guiding and supporting you every step. At Archstone Behavioral Health our mission is to offer readers the most precise and up-to-date information on addiction and behavioral health as possible.

When Does Methadone Withdrawal Begin?

Medical detox programs begin with comprehensive assessments including medical history, current medications, mental health status, and social support https://primetrainingandemployment.com/eric-s-story-a-journey-to-addiction-recovery/ systems. This information guides personalized treatment plans that address each person’s unique circumstances and risk factors. Methadone withdrawal differs significantly from other opioid withdrawals due to the medication’s unique properties and extended half-life.

For Loved Ones: How to Support a Loved One’s Mental Health

Methadone is also used together with medical supervision and counseling to treat opioid use disorder (eg, heroin or other morphine-like drugs). Drug treatment centers utilize the expertise of physicians and therapists to develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient. In almost all cases, an inpatient treatment program will give moderate to severe methadone addicts their best chance at a successful recovery. Inpatient programs, also sometimes referred to as residential, provide the patient with around-the-clock medical treatment, a variety of therapy programs, and valuable life skills training. Although each specific treatment program varies tremendously, there are thousands of options available, meaning there is a good match for every patient.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully. Symptoms of withdrawal from methadone usually last 3 to 6 weeks, but the process can take longer for those with severe addictions.

Methadone side effects

Physical symptoms include muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, chills, what helps with methadone withdrawal and insomnia. Psychological symptoms often include severe anxiety, depression, irritability, and intense drug cravings. Many describe it as feeling like their body is “crawling” or experiencing waves of discomfort that can last for hours.

  • John C. Umhau, MD, MPH, CPE is board-certified in addiction medicine and preventative medicine.
  • If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
  • It can give a similar feeling and keep you from having withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

These symptoms are most common in people who have been misusing opioids over a long period of time. Long term use of this Sober living home medication may cause your brain and body to depend on it. This can happen even when used as directed by your care team.

Methadone Withdrawal

Addiction and Mental Health Therapies

Methadone belongs to the class of medications known as opioids. To alleviate pain, methadone modifies how your brain and nerve system react to it, causing you relief. It can provide a comparable experience and prevent cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

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However, these should supplement, not replace, professional medical care. Both substances suppress respiratory function, and their combined effects can lead to respiratory depression, coma, or death. This risk continues even after stopping methadone, as traces remain in your system for extended periods. The combination of methadone and alcohol creates potentially fatal interactions that persist even during withdrawal. Understanding these risks is crucial for your safety throughout the recovery process.

Methadone Withdrawal

What Happens During Methadone Withdrawal?

Methadone Withdrawal

Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. This medicine may cause serious allergic reactions called anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Call your doctor right away if you have a rash, itching, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth while you are using this medicine.

  • Acute methadone withdrawal symptoms can last up to 14 days, but many people experience post-acute withdrawal for months after their last dose.
  • You are under no obligation to engage in care with Treatment X.
  • Individuals may face intense cravings, sleep disturbances, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, which undermine their overall well-being.
  • However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you.

Our compassionate staff understands the challenges of methadone withdrawal and can provide a safe and supportive environment for your recovery journey. Contact us today to learn more about our methadone detox programs and other treatment options. Methadone is used to treat moderate to severe pain when around-the-clock pain relief is needed for a long period of time. This medicine should not be used to treat pain that you only have once in a while or “as needed”.

Orlando Recovery Center specializes in compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. The older a person is, the less tolerance they may physiologically have for taxing burdens like withdrawal. It can be harder for an older person to recover from withdrawal as quickly as a younger person might. Your body will let you know by generating a number of uncomfortable, often severe symptoms.

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