Methadone is a synthetic, long-lasting opiate drug most commonly used to relieve withdrawal symptoms in patients recovering from heroin addiction, says "The Encyclopedia of Drug Abuse." Methadone itself is sometimes abused, although it does not produce the euphoric effects associated with other opiates such as morphine or heroin.
Time Frame
Methadone is often used to relieve withdrawal symptoms in recovering heroin addicts, owing to its long-lasting effects and slow metabolism. However, the "Handbook of Psychiatric Drugs" explains that these characteristics also prolong the withdrawal syndrome typically caused by opiate withdrawal. Symptoms appear 2 to 3 days following the last dose of methadone and last two weeks or more.
Physical Withdrawal Symptoms
The "Clinical Manual of Addiction Psychopharmacology" explains that physical symptoms of methadone withdrawal include runny nose, watery eyes, excessive yawning, racing heart, excessive sweating, muscle tremors and deep radiating pain within the body.
Emotional Withdrawal Symtoms
Before the onset of physical symptoms, it is likely that emotional withdrawal symptoms will appear, explains the "Clinical Manual of Addiction Psychopharmacology." These include irritability, anxiety, depression and restlessness.
References
- "The Encyclopedia of Drug Abuse"; Esther Gwinnell, M.D. and Christine Adamec; 2008
- "The Handbook of Psychiatric Drugs"; Jeffrey A. Lieberman and Allan Tasman; 2006
- "Clinical Manual of Addiction Psychopharmacology"; Henry R. Kranzler, M.D. and Domenic A. Ciraulo, M.D.; 2005
