Methadone is a synthetic opioid. Because it stays in the body for a long period of time and does not produce as much euphoria as other narcotics, methadone is commonly prescribed to help people detox from other opiates. It can also be used for pain management. On the other hand, methadone is also addictive, and it can be very difficult to detox from this drug without careful planning.
Step 1
Talk to a medical professional. Although methadone is often prescribed to help people stop using other narcotics, methadone is a powerful narcotic in its own right. Discussing a detoxification plan with a medical professional (preferably one experienced with methadone or pain management) is essential. Consider going to a clinic that specializes in narcotic withdrawals (although not a methadone treatment center) for assistance.
Step 2
Gradually reduce your methadone usage. Trying to stop "cold turkey" will only lead to serious withdrawal symptoms including diarrhea, fatigue, depression and insomnia, as well as delirium and hallucinations. Gradually tapering your dose will help minimize these withdrawal symptoms. Try to come up with a schedule with your doctor. If you find that your tapering is going too quickly, feel free to slow your detox.
Step 3
Keep your body healthy. Methadone withdrawal can take a toll on your body, so it is important to keep it as healthy as possible. Drinks lots of fluids (such as water or juice), eat a healthy diet and take multivitamins.
Step 4
Consider switching to buprenorphine. Buprenorphine is, much like methadone, a synthetic opioid. However, its withdrawal symptoms are not nearly as severe, and many methadone users are able to switch to this medication once they have reduced their methadone usage.
Step 5
Get social support. There are a variety of support groups for people who are addicted to narcotics, and some are even specific for methadone. Talking to other people who are or have been in similar situations can be very helpful and ease the process.
