How to Detox From Methadone

Overview

Methadone is a synthetic opioid, which means that it is a derivative of opium. Methadone is commonly used to treat chronic pain and also to help patients who are addicted to other narcotics quit. Methadone stays in the body for a long period of time, which means that it can be taken only once per day (rather than requiring multiple doses each day) and also can help prevent narcotics addicts from feeling "high" should they relapse. However, because methadone is an opiate, it can also be addictive.

Step 1

Contact a medical professional. Although methadone can be used to treat the symptoms of withdrawal from other opiates, the symptoms of withdrawal from methadone can be particularly intense and may include abdominal cramps, fever, diarrhea and nausea. It is critical to talk to a doctor before you attempt to detox, preferably one familiar with drug addiction or pain management.

Step 2

Decrease your methadone use gradually. Although it may seem preferable to just go "cold turkey," it will also maximize the withdrawal symptoms. Instead, create a schedule for tapering your methadone use, gradually decreasing your dose. How rapidly you reduce your methadone intake is up to you and your physician.

Step 3

Keep yourself healthy. As methadone gets out of your system, it can put a lot of stress on your body. Be sure to eat whenever the nausea allows you to, and take multivitamins so that you don't become malnourished. In particular, try to take calcium and magnesium supplements, which will not only help keep your bones from getting weak but will also make it easier to sleep.

Step 4

Consider transitioning to buprenorphine at the end. Once your daily methadone usage is low, you may be able to switch over to this prescription medication. Buprenorphine is a synthetic compound that acts similarly to methadone but has much milder withdrawal symptoms.