WHAT IS METHADONE?

Methadone is a long-acting, synthetic, narcotic drug that has been used for over 35 years to treat opiate addiction. It is an opiate "agonist," which means that it acts in a way that is similar to morphine and other narcotic medications. Methadone is widely distributed to body tissues where it is stored and then released into the plasma over an extended period of time. Properly prescribed methadone is not intoxicating and does not create euphoria, sedation, or an analgesic effect. Its effects do not interfere with ordinary activities such as driving a car. The medication suppresses narcotic withdrawal for 24 to 36 hours. Patients are able to perceive pain and have emotional reactions. Most important, methadone relieves the craving associated with heroin addiction; which is a major reason for relapse. Among methadone patients, it has been found that normal street doses of heroin are less effective at producing a high, thus making the use of heroin more easily resisted.

Methadone's effects last for more than 24 hours so people in treatment need to take it only once a day. Also, methadone is medically safe even when used continuously for 10 years or more. Combined with behavioral therapies or counseling and other supportive services, methadone enables patients to stop using heroin (and other opiates) and return to more stable and productive lives.

WHO NEEDS METHADONE MAINTENANCE?

Individuals who are addicted to opiates (heroin, narcotic painkillers, and other opiates) benefit greatly from methadone maintenance treatment. Prescribed doses of methadone relieve withdrawal symptoms, eliminate opiate cravings and allow normal functioning. If drugs control your life and you fear the illness of withdrawal, then methadone is a safe medical approach to treatment.

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