For years, methadone was used to treat people suffering from opioid abuse. This medication has also been used to help treat people addicted to narcotic drugs and prescribed to people suffering from various bodily pains.

However, excessive usage of this opioid has led to methadone addiction in many individuals’ lives. In some cases, people who use this substance to treat pain or addiction have become reliant on it.

Today, there are many rehab centers providing treatment for those suffering from substance abuse and addiction. Addiction Specialists understand how hard it can be to overcome such an addiction.

How does Methadone Dependence Develop?

There is a misconception among many people that they won’t become dependent on or addicted to substances that are meant to help them. In reality, most people who have used methadone to treat pain and other issues have become physically dependent on it.

Well, methadone is an opiate painkiller, and it’s a long-acting medication. Its effects tend to linger, and the drug can build up in a user’s body. Moreover, the pain-relieving outcomes of methadone are addictive.

However, methadone is not for treating chronic pain because its effects typically last for about 8 hours. So, when the effects of methadone wear off, individuals use more of the substance to stop feeling pain. But, since the drug builds up in the body, people who use methadone more often than recommended are at risk of overdose.

Also, people often mix methadone with other substances, including benzodiazepines, alcohol, and other depressants. Doing that is very unsafe and can lead to fatal consequences.

Let’s talk about Methadone Withdrawal and Detox Process.

Compared to other opiate drugs, the methadone detox process is one of the most challenging. The opioid withdrawal symptoms resulting from physical dependence on a substance are typically contrary to the side effects produced by the drug. Relapse is quite common for people who try to detox on their own since the methadone withdrawal timeline is long and painful.

Methadone Side Effects Usually Include:

• Seizures
• Abnormal Heartbeat
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Vision issues
• Rashes

Individuals who use methadone frequently may start to grow physically dependent on it. As a result, the user experiences a bit of discomfort if they miss a dose or stop using the drug. That is known as withdrawal. Some of the common methadone withdrawal symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Tremors
• Pain in joints or legs
• Elevated pain sensitivity
• Elevated blood pressure
• Rapid heartbeat

Precautions Regarding Methadone Usage

Methadone can increase the effects of central nervous system depressants and other over the control or prescription pain drugs. You should avoid these medications when taking methadone.

Methadone may also cause dizziness, drowsiness, and lightheadedness. A methadone overdose may result in coma, unconsciousness, or even death.

Today, several therapies are available to patients with coping and daily living skills to aid their return to bring productive members of society.

If you or someone you know could use assistance in ending methadone addiction, contact an established rehab treatment clinic near you. The experts will try help make the recovery process much easier for you.