Methadone is a long-acting medication used in the treatment of opioid use disorder. It helps reduce cravings and prevent withdrawal symptoms, allowing individuals to regain stability and focus on rebuilding their lives.

Methadone is used as part of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), also called Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). Treatment may include medical supervision, individual counseling, group therapy, and case management.

Methadone works by acting on the same receptors in the brain affected by opioids. When taken as prescribed, it helps stabilize the body's response to opioids without producing the same rapid effects associated with drugs such as heroin.

Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT) is a long-term treatment approach designed to help individuals manage opioid addiction and maintain recovery.

Opioids include heroin, morphine, codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and other prescription or illicit drugs.

Methadone maintenance treatment can provide several benefits:

• Reduces or eliminates cravings for opioid drugs.

• Prevents or significantly reduces withdrawal symptoms.

• Helps stabilize the body's neurological and hormonal functioning.

• Reduces the effects and risks associated with continued illicit opioid use.

• Supports improved physical and emotional well-being.

• Allows individuals to focus on their families, employment, relationships, and personal goals.

• Improves overall quality of life.

Have you tried detoxification but found it difficult to remain comfortable or maintain recovery?

Have you been using opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, or other prescription pain medications but have been unable to stop?

Methadone treatment may help you regain stability and take control of your life.

Treatment is individualized, and a medical professional can help determine whether methadone is an appropriate option for you.

You do not have to navigate recovery alone. Professional treatment and support can help you take the next step.

Assessment

Before beginning methadone treatment, patients receive an assessment to help determine their medical needs and appropriate treatment plan.

The assessment generally includes:

• A review of your substance use history.

• A physical examination by a medical provider.

• Questions about your medical history and current health.

• A review of medications and other substances you may be taking.

• Questions about your physical and mental health.

• Screening for certain medical conditions and infectious diseases when appropriate.

You may be asked about your family, home environment, employment, and other circumstances that may affect your recovery.

Ask questions. You have the right to understand what you are being tested for, what services are available, and what to expect during treatment.

Your progress may be reassessed throughout treatment to ensure your care continues to meet your needs.

Starting Methadone Treatment

If you are considering methadone treatment, the first step is to contact an authorized opioid treatment program.

A medical provider will evaluate your needs and determine whether methadone treatment is appropriate.

Your treatment plan will be developed based on your individual circumstances, medical history, and response to medication.

At EJAL Health Services, our goal is to make accessing treatment as straightforward and comfortable as possible.

Walk-ins are welcome. Contact us to learn how to begin.

Dosing

Methadone dosing is individualized. Your medical provider will determine the appropriate starting dose and make adjustments based on your response to treatment.

During the early stages of treatment, your dose may need to be adjusted as your body becomes stabilized.

The goal is to find a dose that adequately controls withdrawal symptoms and cravings while minimizing side effects.

Signs that your dose may need to be reviewed include:

• Continued opioid cravings.

• Withdrawal symptoms.

• Excessive drowsiness.

• Other uncomfortable side effects.

Never adjust your dose or take more medication than prescribed without speaking with your treatment provider.

Once you are stabilized, your provider will continue monitoring your progress and making adjustments when necessary.

Important: Methadone can cause drowsiness, particularly when starting treatment or adjusting a dose. Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel impaired.

Drug Testing

Routine urine or oral fluid drug testing may be part of methadone treatment.

Drug testing helps the treatment team monitor your progress, identify potential medication interactions, and support your safety.

Testing policies and frequency may vary depending on individual circumstances and applicable regulations.

If you believe a test result is inaccurate, speak with your treatment provider about available confirmation or retesting procedures.

A positive drug test should be addressed as part of your treatment plan and should not automatically be viewed as a reason to give up on recovery.

At the beginning of treatment, patients generally visit the clinic regularly to receive their medication under supervision.

As treatment progresses and patients meet applicable eligibility requirements, they may become eligible for take-home medication.

Take-home privileges are determined by the treatment provider in accordance with federal and state regulations and individual clinical circumstances.

Your provider will explain:

• When you may qualify for take-home medication.

• How medication must be stored.

• How to transport medication safely.

• Your responsibilities when taking medication home.

• Circumstances that may affect take-home eligibility.

Medication must always be stored securely and kept away from children, visitors, and anyone for whom it was not prescribed.

Methadone and Employment

Methadone treatment can help individuals regain stability and return to their daily responsibilities.

Once you are on a stable dose, treatment generally should not prevent you from working, maintaining employment, or participating in everyday activities.

Many individuals receiving methadone treatment successfully maintain careers, care for their families, and participate in their communities.

Your medical information is confidential, subject to applicable laws and limited exceptions.

You generally do not need to disclose your treatment to your employer unless disclosure is required by a specific law or workplace safety circumstance.

Methadone and Everyday Life

Methadone maintenance treatment is intended to help individuals achieve greater stability and improve their quality of life.

With an appropriate treatment plan, patients can work toward:

• Maintaining employment.

• Rebuilding family relationships.

• Improving physical health.

• Developing healthy routines.

• Participating in counseling and support services.

• Pursuing personal and professional goals.

Recovery is different for everyone. Some individuals remain in treatment for an extended period, while others may eventually consider a gradual, medically supervised taper.

The length of treatment should be determined through discussion between you and your medical provider.

There is no single timeline for methadone treatment.

Some individuals may benefit from treatment for a shorter period, while others choose to remain on maintenance treatment for many years.

Research has shown that remaining in treatment can reduce the risk of returning to opioid use.

The decision to continue or discontinue treatment should be based on your individual health, stability, recovery goals, and discussions with your medical provider.

There is no need to rush the process.

If you are considering stopping methadone, speak with your treatment provider first.

Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms and increase the risk of returning to opioid use.

If discontinuation is appropriate, your provider can work with you on a gradual, individualized tapering plan.

Some symptoms during withdrawal may include:

• Muscle aches.

• Difficulty sleeping.

• Changes in appetite.

• Restlessness.

• Mood changes.

• Other physical discomfort.

Withdrawal experiences and timelines vary considerably.

It is important to maintain a support network throughout the process.

If you experience a return of cravings or opioid use, contact your treatment provider promptly. Returning to treatment is not a failure. It is an opportunity to protect your health and continue working toward recovery.

Mixing Methadone with Other Drugs Can Be Dangerous

Methadone can interact with prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, alcohol, and other substances.

Certain combinations can increase sedation, interfere with treatment, cause withdrawal symptoms, or lead to a life-threatening overdose.

Always tell your treatment provider about all medications and substances you use, including:

• Prescription medications.

• Over-the-counter medications.

• Sleep medications.

• Anxiety medications.

• Alcohol.

• Other opioids.

• Supplements and herbal products.

• Illicit or recreational substances.

Never start or stop a medication without discussing potential interactions with your healthcare provider.

Medications That May Interact with Methadone

Certain medications can interfere with methadone or cause withdrawal symptoms.

Examples listed in the original educational brochure include:

• Naloxone.

• Naltrexone.

• Buprenorphine.

• Certain opioid medications, including nalbuphine and butorphanol.

Alcohol and other sedating substances can also increase the risks associated with methadone.

This list is not complete. Medication interactions are complex, and patients should consult their medical provider or pharmacist before combining medications.

Safety and Storage

Methadone must always be taken exactly as prescribed.

To help protect yourself and others:

• Never share your medication with another person.

• Never transfer medication into an unlabeled container.

• Keep medication in its original, properly labeled container.

• Store medication in a secure, locked location.

• Keep medication away from children and pets.

• Never take additional doses unless instructed by your medical provider.

• Follow all instructions for transporting and storing take-home medication.

Accidental ingestion of methadone can be life-threatening, particularly for children and individuals who are not accustomed to opioids.

If someone may have accidentally taken methadone or is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. In the United States, administer naloxone if available and follow emergency instructions.

Methadone and Overdose Prevention

Taking more methadone than prescribed or combining it with alcohol, benzodiazepines, sleeping pills, or other sedating medications can cause dangerously slowed breathing.

Signs of a possible opioid overdose include:

• Very slow or stopped breathing.

• Unresponsiveness.

• Inability to wake the person.

• Blue or gray lips or fingertips.

• Pinpoint pupils.

Call 911 immediately if an overdose is suspected. Give naloxone if available and provide rescue breathing or CPR if trained.

Hospital Stays

If you are admitted to a hospital, inform the medical staff that you are enrolled in a methadone treatment program.

It is important that hospital providers communicate with your opioid treatment program to coordinate medication and care.

This helps prevent interruptions in treatment and reduces the risk of withdrawal or dangerous medication interactions.

Do not assume the hospital automatically has access to your treatment information.

Dealing with Side Effects

Methadone can cause side effects, particularly when beginning treatment or adjusting a dose.

Some possible side effects include:

Constipation

• Drink adequate water.

• Include fiber-rich foods in your diet.

• Speak with your provider if constipation continues.

Excessive Sweating

Some patients experience increased sweating while taking methadone. Your provider can discuss possible treatment options.

Changes in Sex Drive

Some individuals experience changes in sexual desire or sexual functioning. Other medications and medical conditions may also contribute.

Discuss these concerns with your medical provider. Treatment options may be available.

Drowsiness

Drowsiness may occur, particularly when starting treatment or changing doses. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel impaired.

Other Symptoms

If you experience persistent or concerning symptoms, speak with your treatment provider. Your dose or treatment plan may need to be reviewed.

Methadone and HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C

Individuals living with HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C can receive methadone treatment.

Methadone can help individuals stabilize their lives and focus on managing their overall health.

It is important to inform your medical provider about any medical conditions and medications you take because certain medications can interact with methadone.

Your provider can help coordinate your treatment and identify potential interactions.

Methadone treatment does not replace medical care for HIV or hepatitis. Patients should continue working with their appropriate healthcare providers.

Methadone and Pain Relief

Methadone has medical uses for pain management as well as opioid use disorder treatment.

However, individuals receiving methadone maintenance treatment may have different pain-management needs because of opioid tolerance.

If you require treatment for acute or chronic pain, tell the treating medical provider that you are receiving methadone.

Pain management should be coordinated with your treatment team to ensure that medications are used safely.

Your Treatment Is Confidential

Your privacy matters.

Information about your participation in substance use disorder treatment is protected by federal confidentiality laws and applicable privacy regulations.

Your treatment information generally cannot be shared without your written consent, except in specific circumstances permitted or required by law.

There may be limited exceptions involving medical emergencies, certain legal proceedings, and other circumstances established by applicable regulations.

Your treatment team may share necessary information for treatment purposes when legally permitted.

You have the right to ask questions about how your information is used and protected.

Patient Rights and Responsibilities

As a patient receiving methadone treatment, you have the right to:

• Be treated with dignity and respect.

• Receive appropriate and professional care.

• Understand your treatment plan.

• Ask questions about your medication and treatment.

• Discuss concerns about your dose or side effects.

• Have your privacy respected.

• Understand program policies and expectations.

• Participate in decisions about your treatment.

• Voice concerns or complaints without fear of retaliation.

You also have responsibilities, including:

• Taking medication only as prescribed.

• Following program safety requirements.

• Providing accurate medical and medication information.

• Keeping scheduled appointments.

• Following take-home medication rules.

• Communicating honestly with your treatment team.

• Treating staff and other patients respectfully.

What If You Are Unhappy with Your Treatment?

If you feel your treatment plan is not meeting your needs, speak with your counselor or medical provider.

For example, if you continue experiencing withdrawal symptoms or cravings, your medical provider may need to reassess your dose.

If a concern is not resolved, you can ask about the clinic's grievance procedure or contact the appropriate state licensing or accrediting agency.

You deserve to be heard and treated respectfully.

When taken as prescribed and monitored by a qualified medical provider:

• Methadone can help improve health and stability.

• Methadone is designed to reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

• Methadone does not produce the same rapid euphoric effects associated with heroin when appropriately prescribed and taken.

• Methadone does not inherently damage your immune system.

• Methadone does not automatically damage your teeth or bones.

• Methadone does not cause weight gain in everyone.

• Methadone treatment can help individuals maintain employment and family responsibilities.

Methadone is still an opioid medication and carries risks, including dependence, sedation, and overdose. Safe, medically supervised treatment is essential.

Patients looking for additional information or support may find the following resources helpful:

SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/

SAMHSA National Helpline

1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Provides information and referrals for individuals seeking substance use and mental health treatment.

FindTreatment.gov

https://findtreatment.gov/

A resource for locating substance use treatment services.

SAMHSA – Treatment and Recovery Resources

https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use

Additional information about substance use treatment and recovery.