Knowing Why and When to Seek Methadone Treatment

Depending on the nature of their addiction, for some people, the best recovery option is specialized methadone treatment administered either at a rehab facility, or prescribed by a doctor and taken at home. 

Methadone is an opioid analgesic, and is used to treat people who are addicted to opioid drugs such as heroin or prescription opiates. It blocks the effects of these medications.

While it’s prescribed as a treatment for opiate addictions, methadone isn’t a cure for these addictions. It does, however, help with withdrawal and with weaning addicts away from opiates.

Methadone can only be prescribed using a SAMHSA certified program.

Finding a Rehab Facility

When looking for a rehab facility, there are many factors you should take into account – the distance from the home and family, the cost, and the types of treatment offered. There are hundreds of facilities across the country. Take the time to research which is the best fit.

Benefits of Methadone Treatment

Methadone has several benefits, including:

• Decreased cravings
• Reduction of withdrawal symptoms
• Blocking the effects of opioids
• Aiding day-to-day functioning

Additional Treatment Options

People who are receiving methadone treatment may also receive additional assistance including counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, outpatient treatment, and group therapy sessions.

Risks and Side Effects

Like all treatment programs, treatment with methadone has risks.

Possible side effects of methadone include:

• • Nausea and vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Intestinal problems
  • Dizziness and fatigue
  • Cold and clammy skin
  • Breathing issues
  • Low blood pressure
  • Addiction

As methadone treatment becomes more widely available, overdoses are on the increase. If someone in treatment becomes addicted, the less ‘euphoric’ effects of methadone can lead them to take huge doses. This can result in coma, and sometimes death.

Methadone can also interact with other medications, so anyone taking it should stick to their prescribed dose and take it only at the right time. If any symptoms are experienced, consult a doctor.

It’s also essential for people being treated with methadone to avoid drinking alcohol and to take care when driving or operating machinery.

When choosing a rehab facility, it’s important to consider how they handle the possibility of relapse and work to prevent it. Many rehab programs partner current participants with recent graduates, who understand what the person is going through, and who can provide information and support where and when needed.

Of course, relapse is often a part of recovery, and family members should be supportive if their loved one looks close to relapsing. Don’t judge, be supportive, and recovery will still be possible even if it takes a few tries.

Preventing Relapse

Once your loved one has returned home, you can prep your home environment to prevent relapse by removing intoxicants or alcohol, helping to plan activities that take them out of situations where they might be tempted, or finding a hobby. You can also exercise together, prepare healthy meals, and set a routine that helps to take the focus on recovery and prevention of relapse.