Methadone is a highly controlled narcotic medication used to detoxify the body in opioid medication abuse. Opiates are medications prescribed for effective relieve of strong pain. Some common opiates include morphine, Oxycontin and Percocet. Methadone is usually administered under medical supervision. In appropriate doses, methadone proves very effective in controlling symptoms of opioid-withdrawal in patients dependent on opioid. Methadone also provides pain relief. When taken in excess, methadone can have negative consequences on the body.
Dizziness and Drowsiness
When taken as prescribed, methadone causes dizziness and drowsiness. In excess doses, these side effects worsen and can lead to sedation that can become life threatening. It can also cause disorientation. Seeking immediate medical attention becomes important for a patient displaying signs of sedation. Patients on methadone should refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery to avoid injury to self and others.
Respiratory Problems
According to the Medline Plus, Methadone can reduce the rate of breathing in the body, a condition known as respiratory depression. This side effect occurs commonly when methadone is taken in appropriate doses, and can become more pronounced in over-dosage. When the rate of respiration reduces, oxygen supply to the body diminishes and the body becomes unable to function properly. Overdose of methadone can also cause respiratory arrest (the body stops breathing) which can lead to death. Excessive doses can also causes the lungs to fill up with fluid, leading to swelling and difficulty breathing.
Stomach Problems
Severe nausea, constipation, abdominal pain, abdominal cramping and vomiting prove common in recommended as well as in over-dosages of methadone. Nausea and vomiting can worsen enough to affect appetite and intake of food. Constipation may cause stool retention, which might require medical intervention. Vomiting causes the body to lose valuable nutrients and vitamins that prove necessary for the normal body functioning. Severe abdominal pain and cramp can be debilitating to a patient.
Heart Effects
Excessive methadone can cause a decrease in blood pressure. It can also cause life-threatening changes to the heart rate and rhythm, which can result in dangerous elevation in heart rate, changes in beating pattern, weakening of the heart muscles and structural changes to the heart. An overdose can also cause cardiac arrest and death.
Skin
The National Institute of Health states that the skin can become pale, blue, and damp in cases of overdose of Methadone. Overdose can lead to excessive uncontrollable sweating. A patient who is taking Methadone should be evaluated for appropriateness of prescribed dose if excessive sweating occurs.
