Methadone for Drug Addiction Treatment
Opioid use disorder (OUD) presents challenges to physical health, mental well-being, and community connections, but with proper treatment, recovery is possible. Addiction treatment medications like methadone, combined with behavioral therapies, help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety.
This article will answer the questions “What is methadone?” and “How does methadone work?”, and help you find effective OUD treatment.
What Is Methadone?
Methadone is a synthetic long-acting opioid agonist that is approved by the FDA to treat OUD.1,2 Doctors may prescribe methadone during the detoxification, or withdrawal, phase of opioid drug addiction treatment, as well as during the maintenance phase.1
Methadone for drug addiction has been used for more than 50 years in the treatment of OUD. Its development addressed the need for long-acting pain relief, and its efficacy was later recognized in managing opioid dependence. It is important to note that methadone must be dispensed through federally regulated and licensed opioid treatment programs (OTPs), sometimes referred to as methadone clinics.2
The medication is available in several formulations, including liquid concentrate (the most commonly used type in OTPs), powders, dispersible tablets, and standard tablets.3 It is available as a generic medication and under brand names such as Methadose and Dolophine.4
Individuals typically receive a single daily dose of methadone at an OTP. Once a person achieves stability in their treatment, they may, in some cases, be authorized to take their medication at home for self-administration.3
The appropriate dosage, formulation, and administration method are determined by their prescribing physician based on individual needs.
How Does Methadone Work?
Methadone functions as a long-acting opioid agonist, which means it binds to the brain’s opioid receptors in the brain–receptors that are part of the body’s natural systems for managing pain and reward.
By binding to these receptors methadone minimizes or suppresses the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and intense cravings associated with opioid dependence. Furthermore, it occupies these receptors, thereby blocking or diminishing the euphoric effects of other opioids that an individual might attempt to use during treatment. 2,5
When used correctly and at recommended therapeutic doses, methadone does not induce euphoria.2 Moreover, its action of binding to opioid receptors also inhibits or blocks the effects of illicit opioids, meaning that people on a stable dose of methadone will not experience the typical “high” or euphoric feelings if they use other opioids.5
Methadone plays a crucial role in both medically supervised withdrawal (detoxification) and the long-term maintenance phase of OUD treatment. It helps manage acute withdrawal symptoms during detox, making the process more tolerable.3
In the maintenance phase, it can be used long-term to prevent relapse by reducing cravings and blocking the effects of other opioids.3
Is methadone addictive? While it’s true that diverted pharmaceutical methadone can be misused, the structure and oversight of methadone maintenance programs are legally established to prevent this.6
When taken as prescribed and under the careful supervision of qualified medical professionals within an OTP, methadone does not produce euphoria and is a safe, extensively researched, and effective medication for treating OUD.2,3
Methadone Side Effects
As with any medication, methadone can have side effects.1 Opioids can slow breathing, making respiratory depression a serious concern, particularly when starting treatment or when increasing the dose.
To mitigate this risk, physicians typically prescribe the lowest effective dose and gradually increase it based on individual needs. Although there are many benefits to the medication, there may be other methadone side effects that include:1
- Lightheadedness or dizziness.
- Sedation and drowsiness.
- Gastrointestinal issues (e.g., nausea, vomiting).
- Sweating.
When taken as prescribed under a physician’s supervision, side effects can be monitored and doses adjusted to ensure safe and effective treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD).
While methadone is an opioid agonist, methadone maintenance programs are safer than the continued use of illicit drugs.2,7
Individuals in methadone maintenance programs face lower risks of contracting diseases like HIV or hepatitis from needle sharing, have reduced involvement with the criminal justice system, and are less likely to die from an overdose.2
Methadone for Drug Addiction
Methadone is a safe and effective medication widely used in treating opioid use disorder (OUD). It is the most researched medication for opioid addiction.2,3
Methadone helps reduce withdrawal symptoms during detox and is often continued during the maintenance phase, known as methadone maintenance therapy, to support long-term recovery.1,4
In conjunction with their doctors, individuals can decide to continue taking methadone for as long as is necessary as a way of helping manage cravings and maintaining sobriety.3
Maintenance medication for OUD can also allow people the opportunity to more successfully manage various aspects of their lives, such as family and childcare, work, and school.3
Opioid Addiction Treatment in Florida
Dealing with OUD isn’t easy, but we are here to help you or your loved one start and stay on the path to recovery.
Recovery First, an inpatient rehab facility near Miami, offers expert, evidence-based treatment for OUD that involves a comprehensive approach to address each person’s unique needs.
We offer all levels of addiction treatment, including medical detox, inpatient rehab, various types of outpatient care, and aftercare to support your recovery.
When you’re ready to reach out, please call us at to speak to a compassionate admissions navigator. We can help you start treatment today, answer any questions you may have about addiction treatment admissions, rehab payment options, paying for rehab with health insurance, and quickly verify your insurance.
You can also check your insurance coverage for rehab by completing our .
No matter how things might seem right now, there is always hope.