What is methadone treatment? Methadone treatment is the application of methadone to treat addictions, which are generally complicated. Researchers still don’t have enough answers for why some people have higher chances of developing substance use disorders than others.
Although experts have proposed some theories to explain the origins of addiction, there is no single answer that applies to all types of addictions. Similarly, addiction treatment is always complicated, and a treatment plan that works for one person might not work for another. Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is one of the many medication-assisted treatment programs that have shown excellent results for opioid addiction treatment.
What Is Methadone Treatment?
You’ll first need to understand the logic behind the method to answer the question – what is methadone treatment. Fortunately, NC Wellness Center – High Point has the answers you need, call [Direct].
The reason behind the application of methadone for outpatient opioid addiction is that the doctor can administer it in small doses over time; hence, this enables the addict to abstain from an addictive substance with minimal side effects.
This kind of treatment uses prescribed methadone to ease severe opioid withdrawal symptoms, prevent cravings and relapse, and stabilize the recovering addicts so that they can concentrate on recovery. Therefore, methadone is not an addiction treatment by itself, but an aid to treatment.
Effects of Methadone
There is no single drug with a safe level of usage. All medications have risks and undesirable side effects, including methadone. The use of methadone affects people differently based on various factors, such as the person’s health, weight, and size. Interactions with other prescription medications can also cause undesired effects.
Since the effects of methadone last longer than those of opioids, MMT demands a close doctor’s supervision. The need for monitoring is even higher for people with other underlying or co-occurring conditions, such as chronic alcohol use, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
What Are the Side Effects of Methadone?
What is methadone treatment’s side effect? When you’re on the right methadone dosage, you can expect to experience some mild side effects, including:
- Excessive sweating, leading to dehydration
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Problems passing urine
- Constipation and abdominal cramps
- Aching joints and muscles
- Confusion, lethargy, and mental clouding
Dose-Related Effects of Methadone
You’ll experience undesirable consequences that may be more severe than the usual side effects mentioned above when you’re not on the right dosage of methadone prescriptions. The effects of a methadone under-dose include:
- High body temperature—although you might still feel cold and have goosebumps
- Joint pains and backaches
- Running nose
- Anger, aggression, and irritability
- Fatigue
There are reported cases where people overdose on methadone, so seek medical attention quickly if you continually ask – what is methadone treatment in High Point, NC? Overdose usually happens after prolonged intake of the drug, particularly for people with chronic medical conditions.
Seek immediate treatment if you or your loved ones start experiencing the signs of a methadone overdose. These symptoms can develop to lethal levels within a short period.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the most common methadone overdose symptoms are severe allergic reactions, such as swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat and a tight chest or wheezy breathing.
The Takeaway
Remember, methadone is a controlled substance with strict restrictions on its dispensation. Only licensed pharmacists can dispense it for medical detoxification purposes. Discuss with your physician about where to get the drug.
Now you have a satisfactory answer to your question – what is methadone treatment? If you’re struggling with an addiction, visit a rehab center today. The doctor will consider your age, health status, and whether you have an underlying illness before prescribing methadone or administering other medications. Seek professional advice at NC Wellness Center – High Point by calling [Direct].
