The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that 341,000 people in the United States over the age of 12 received treatment for heroin use in 2008. According to MedlinePlus, methadone is a narcotic pain reliever used to treat opiate (including heroin) withdrawal symptoms. The Merck Manuals report that, with methadone use, opiate withdrawal symptoms occur more slowly and are decreased in severity. Though methadone is useful in the treatment of opiate withdrawal symptoms, possible side effects can occur.
Common Side Effects
Drugs.com reports that the most common side effects that result from treatment with methadone are mild. These side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry moth, constipation, headache, itching, nausea and vomiting. Drugs.com advises that a health care provider be consulted if these side effects persist or become bothersome.
Anaphylaxis
If a person is allergic to methadone or any of the other components of the medication, a severe allergic side effect called anaphylaxis may occur. According to MedlinePlus, signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include hives, a rash, itching, difficulty breathing and swelling of the mouth, lips or tongue. MedlinePlus advises contacting medical care immediately if any of the symptoms occur. Allergy to methadone is rare but can cause serious complications.
Rare Side Effects
Other side effects of using methadone occur rarely, reports Drugs.com, but they can be severe. Rare side effects of methadone usage include decreased sexual desire, loss of appetite, menstrual changes in women, agitation, disorientation, unusual bruising and bleeding and seizures. Drugs.com advises medical attention be sought if these symptoms are experienced. Information from MedlinePlus also includes an important warning about the possibility of slowed breathing and irregular heartbeat. They also advise seeking immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.
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