Methadone is a synthetic opioid commonly used to treat addiction disorders to more dangerous opioids such as heroin or fentanyl. Methadone was created during World War II by a group of German doctors. When it was originally released it served as a treatment for severe and chronic pain. In modern times it is more commonly seen to treat opioid use disorders. The drug is considered a vital part of combating the addictions caused by the nation’s current opioid epidemic.
Methadone is chemically quite similar to morphine and works in much the same way. The drug changes how the human brain interprets pain, causing a sensation of relief. Using methadone also blocks the highs of other opioids, such as heroin or codeine.
When prescribed in the treatment of an opioid addiction disorder, methadone usually only represents one piece of the plan. The use of methadone is not a cure for other addictions but rather a way to lessen the symptoms of withdrawal often felt during recovery. Even in recovery programs that the drug’s use as a treatment, it is important to also use therapy to work past your addiction disorder.
While it is possible to get a prescription for methadone when dealing with chronic pain, it is not as accessible when part of an addiction treatment plan. Only certified opioid treatment centers are legally allowed to dispense methadone as opioid treatment.
While it is possible to be able to methadone home for treatment after medical professionals feel it is safe, most people who take methadone as part of an addiction treatment plan must take their dosage at a certified clinic under doctor supervision. This is done to prevent users from taking more than necessary or smuggling it out to sell on the street.
If being used as part of a medication-assisted treatment plan, it is recommended that a person should use methadone for at least 12 months. After the first year, it is up to the person in recovery and medical professionals if the best course is to extend that treatment plan or if they should begin tapering off the use of methadone. It is important to not suddenly quit using methadone, even if using it properly, to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
As with any addiction disorder, is it important to seek the help and support of medical professionals before attempting to quit. Methadone addiction can be serious and fatal and anyone abusing the drug should begin the process towards recovery.
It is important to not trade one addiction in for a more serious one, as many former heroin addicts use the drug to stay clean. Methadone withdrawal can be painful and it should not be attempted to be done alone. Detox facilities exist to help those in recovery through the withdrawal process.
After detox, it is important to not only seek help for the addiction but also for the underlying causes of the addiction. Mental illness is often at the root of addiction disorders and by dealing with the mental issues while also working towards recovery we can better avoid triggering events that often push us towards addiction.
A variety of therapy options, such as group therapy or individual options exist depending on what works best for you. At Create Recovery Los Angeles we are here to help you through your recovery journey. Please call us at 424.338.9072 to learn more.