The Effects of Methadone Detox

Using Methadone to Detox from Heroin

According to Anesthesia Assisted Medical Opiate Detoxification, methadone is a synthetic narcotic drug that is often likened to heroin or morphine. Methadone is also used to help detox heroin addicts. According to Drugs.com, methadone minimizes the withdrawal effects associated with stopping heroin abuse. It does this without causing the euphoria, or high, that is associated with heroin. Methadone is sometimes used to treat severe pain, such as pain after a surgery or serious injury. However, because methadone is an addictive drug, it is sometimes necessary for a patient to detox from the methadone.

Addiction to Methadone

Any patient that uses methadone may become addicted to the drug. For this reason, suddenly stopping a methadone treatment program is likely to cause a patient to have severe withdrawal symptoms. Anyone who is taking methadone must slowly wean off of the drug under a medical professional's supervision. While taking methadone, it is vitally important to take it exactly as directed, as taking too much can be lethal and taking too little can cause withdrawal symptoms.

Side Effects of Methadone

Methadone detox has some common side effects. While these may be unpleasant at times, none are life threatening. They include insomnia, decreased libido, trouble becoming aroused, drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, restlessness or nervousness, constipation, diarrhea and lack of appetite. In most cases, a medical health professional will be able to help you overcome these side effects. Some patients may have an allergic reaction to methadone. Some signs of an allergic reaction include trouble breathing, dizziness, hives and swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue. An allergic reaction to methadone is a life threatening situation. A call to emergency services and a trip to the emergency room are warranted.

Drug Interactions of Methadone Detox

Methadone reacts unfavorably with some medications. These interactions can have dire consequences. For example, drinking alcohol or taking other narcotics, even in small amounts, while taking methadone can lead to death. Sedatives, muscle relaxants and tranquilizers should all be avoided, as these can all interact with methadone. Additionally, Drugs.com recommends avoiding diuretics, MAO inhibitors, blood pressure medications, heart medications, antibiotics, rifampin and seizure medications. As such, patients with a pre-existing condition that requires any of the aforementioned medications should contact a physician to find out if taking methadone is advisable.

Methadone Withdrawal

According to NARCANON of Southern California, the withdrawal symptoms of methadone detox include tremors, nausea, body aches, sneezing, fever, sweating, runny nose, runny eyes, yawning, irritability and stomach cramps. While some of these will be unavoidable when a patient goes through a methadone detox, the severity can be controlled by altering the dosages of the drug during the weaning process.