Methadone hydrochloride is a synthetic opiate drug that has several legitimate uses, one of which is treating moderate to severe pain. However, it is most known for its therapeutic role in addiction detoxification and methadone maintenance programs (MMP), especially for heroin. Unfortunately, methadone itself can be abused, since it is an opiate narcotic. Due to such risks, methadone is considered a Schedule II narcotic medication subject to strict regulations. Methadone, like other opiate-type drugs, may cause a number of side effects.
Common Side Effects
Methadone has been used for several decades to treat addiction. Some possible common side effects that one may experience when beginning this drug are drowsiness, weakness, lightheadedness or dizziness. Additionally, other possible effects of this medication include headache, insomnia, sweating, peripheral edema and problems with urinating. Moreover, it is not unusual for women to miss menstrual periods. Someone starting this medication may experience some gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation and dry mouth. Finally, some patients report a drop in sexual interest or desire. These common side effects are considered to be mild and generally do not require any significant treatment. However, the prescribing physician should be contacted if any of these symptoms persist or become worrisome.
Respiratory Effects
Methadone, like other narcotics, may cause shallow breathing, or what is referred to as respiratory depression, because it depresses the regions in the brain associated with breathing and slows down respiratory rate. This can be a medical emergency, for respiratory arrest can result. Indeed, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that respiratory depression is the "chief hazard" associated with methadone usage. Furthermore, the FDA specifies that the peak for this slowed-down effect on breathing does not present immediately after taking a dose, but tends to occur later than the peak of methadone's pain-relieving effects. Therefore, it is crucial that one adhere strictly to the dosage instructions and pay attention to any respiratory changes (for example, a shift to taking shallow breaths) or fluid retention, which may contribute to the potential for pulmonary edema. Notify a doctor about breathing problems immediately.
Cardiovascular Effects
Methadone can produce an irregular heartbeat, or dysrhythmia. The FDA stipulates that not only is respiratory depression a major risk associated with this drug, but so is systemic hypotension, yet to a "lesser degree." Methadone's properties have the potential to produce serious cardiac conduction effects in some patients, as displayed in cardiac arrhythmia. This is another dangerous effect, and the FDA states that shock, cardiac arrest and even death have occurred in some cases. Palpitations or chest pain is a medical emergency.
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