What is Methadone?

Methadone was originally developed for pain control in Germany during World War II.  It is a long-acting synthetic opioid drug that binds predominantly to the 𝜇-opioid receptors of the brain.  Later it became apparent that methadone can block other opioids from binding to these receptors and provide long-acting pain relief.  Some individuals become tolerant to opioids meaning the dose needs to increase and/or the frequency as the effect has worn off.  This results in opioid withdrawal and cravings.  From this observation the idea of opioid addiction was born and the use of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) as a replacement. 

For addiction, special treatment programs will prescribe Methadone. Methadone is taken orally and is commonly diluted with orange juice to prevent subsequent intravenous injection. When you first start the program, you will be asked to drink your medication at the pharmacy daily.  As you stabilize your dose, and your treatment program, you may be eligible for some “carries”, or take home doses.

Methadone changes the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain so that you feel relief.  It also blocks the high from drugs like Fentanyl, heroin, codeine, hydrocodone and oxycodone. It can give a similar feeling and prevent you from experiencing cravings and withdrawal. The effects of methadone last for 24 to 36 hours. In contrast, a person who uses short-acting opioids to avoid withdrawal must use three to four times a day, and spends their time thinking about how to get their high.  The methadone can displace all opioids from the 𝜇-opioid receptors of the brain and provide long-acting relief for pain. When the optimum maintenance dose is attained by prescription from a trained physician, the elimination of opioid cravings and withdrawal can be achieved.  This is called methadone maintenance treatment (MMT).

Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) has been in use for over 5 decades, preventing opioid withdrawal and cravings. It’s an effective and legal substitute for those patients illicitly using heroin or other narcotics (such as oxycontin, oxycocet, Fentanyl, morphine, codeine, etc.). 

Methadone is a long-acting opioid.  At the proper maintenance dose of methadone, it eliminates cravings and withdrawal.  Individuals receiving MMT, on an optimum dose, will not have to drug-seek in order to get high. They are no longer exposed to dangerous situations and can think more clearly.  Methadone allows patients to focus, and turn their energy towards regaining control over their lives whether it be financially, emotionally, in their relationship and in their overall health.  Counseling can also help some individuals on their journey which is used in addition to MMT.

Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) helps to stabilize the lives of people who are dependent on opiates by improving the social, economic and home environments of the user.

People in methadone treatment do become tolerant to certain effects of the drug, and will experience withdrawal if they do not take their regular dose. But methadone fails to meet a full definition of addictive when we look at how and why the drug is used. 

Methadone maintenance is offered as a medical treatment, and is prescribed only to treat opioid addiction. For these people, methadone provides a safe alternative to the routine danger and desperation of securing a steady supply of opioid drugs illegally. It reduces  the nagging compulsion to use, and allows them to focus on improving their lives.