Drugs.com states that methadone is a synthetic opioid used for the treatment of heroin addiction and dependence on other opioid drugs such as morphine. Methadone is only available upon prescription by a doctor specializing in treating addiction and in methadone replacement programs. Opioids, including methadone, are depressants of the central nervous system, causing slowing down of its function. Alcohol is also a central nervous system depressant; thus the mixing of the two can lead to many untoward effects.
Overdose and Death
The Drug Info Clearinghouse run by the Australian Drug Foundation reports that most cases of overdose and death related to methadone intake involved mixing methadone with another depressant drug, especially alcohol, against doctor's orders. Taking two depressant drugs simultaneously increases the cumulative depressive effects on the brain's respiratory centers. This could lead to respiratory depression and coma followed by death. The symptoms of overdose are shallow breathing, pin point pupils, drowsiness, fainting, palpitations and nausea and vomiting.
Faster Withdrawal Symptoms
According to the Drug Info Clearinghouse, the consumption of large amounts of alcohol can shorten the duration of methadone's effects by accelerating its metabolism and breaking down. This may cause the patients to suffer from the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms before their anticipated next dose of methadone. The patient could suffer from shaking and trembling, bony and muscle aches all over the body, irritability, abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Patient suffering from withdrawal symptoms are more likely to relapse and attempt to acquire their addictive substance.
Increased Risk of Accidents
Methadone treatment might impair the patient's judgment and make him less alert. The Australian Drug Foundation Drug Prevention network asserts that alcohol consumption increases this effect making driving and any activity that requires alertness very hazardous. It is important for patients to check any over-the-counter medication they take for alcohol content and refrain from taking it before driving or performing any activity that requires vigilance and caution.
