Methadone

Methadone is a long-acting opioid medicine used in treatment for opioid use disorder. It can reduce withdrawal and cravings and support a more stable life, with careful attention to safety, other medicines and continuing care.

Methadone treatment can help someone move away from the repeated cycle of opioid withdrawal, seeking relief and using again. It is an established treatment for opioid use disorder, with evidence of reduced deaths during treatment. Receiving it is not a lesser form of recovery or proof that a person has failed to change.

Methadone is also an opioid. It can cause physical dependence and serious harm if treatment is not managed safely. The body may retain it after the person no longer notices a particular effect, and alcohol or other sedating substances can increase danger. Tell the treatment team about all medicines and substances being used.

Do not make your own dose changes, replace a missed supply with someone else's medicine or restart an old arrangement after an interruption without advice from the treatment service. Suspected poisoning with slow or difficult breathing, a seizure, or an inability to wake needs emergency medical help. Sudden confusion needs immediate medical help. Keep methadone secure and away from children and other people.

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