Methadone is a synthetic opiate medication that can be used to treat moderate to severe pain. It may also be used as part of a treatment program for addiction to heroin or other narcotic medications, along with use as part of a drug maintenance program for patients who have been unable to quit using opiates. Like other opiate-type medications, it may cause a number of side effects, some of which may be severe.
Dizziness
The prescribing information for methadone as provided by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that dizziness and lightheadedness are some of the most common side effects of methadone use, particularly when used for treatment of pain. Many patients who take methadone will become used to these effects after taking the medication for a period of time. Dizziness and lightheadedness may be relieved somewhat by lying down. Severe symptoms related to these side effects, such as fainting, may indicate that too much medication has been taken and medical help should be sought.
Drowsiness
When used for pain management, drowsiness is also a common side effect of methadone. Drowsiness may also subside or lessen in severity as the patient becomes used to the medication. More serious effects affecting level of consciousness, including severe sedation or the inability to wake along with slowed, shallow breathing, may indicate signs of overdose and warrant emergency medical treatment.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea is the most common side effect of many medications, particularly opiate-type pain relievers like methadone. In some cases, nausea may also be accompanied by vomiting when the medication is used for treatment of pain. Most patients will become used to the medication and stop experiencing nausea; however, nausea and vomiting may also be symptoms of narcotic withdrawal when methadone is used for treatment of addiction. A physician should be notified if nausea and vomiting become severe.
Constipation
Opiate medications may cause constipation because of slowing of the intestinal tract. This is a particular problem with long-term use of medications such as methadone. Unlike other gastrointestinal side effects, constipation will not lessen with use and will likely become worse. Many patients who are on chronic pain treatment with methadone will require laxative use to have regular bowel movements. The prescribing physician should be notified if a bowel movement has not occurred in several days or if abdominal distress becomes a problem. Some patients with pre-existing gastrointestinal disorders may not be able to use methadone.
Sweating
Sweating may be a common side effect of methadone when the medication is taken for pain relief, particularly if the patient is ambulatory. Sweating is also a common side effect of opiate withdrawal and may be experienced by those who are taking methadone as part of a program of drug addiction treatment. If severe, it may indicate that the medication is being withdrawn too quickly. Severe sweating should be reported to medical personnel in case of the need for dose adjustment.
Addiction and Abuse Potential
All narcotic-type medications used for pain treatment, including methadone, pose a potential risk for abuse or the development of addiction or dependence. Because methadone has a longer duration of action than most other opiates, it is used for the treatment of addiction to other opiate medications. Patients who are taking methadone for the treatment of addiction may be more likely to abuse the medication. Because of these risks, methadone is a Class-II narcotic medication and is strictly controlled by the federal and state governments. Symptoms of overdose such as sedation and slowed respiration may warrant emergency medical care. Symptoms of withdrawal, including increased sweating, anxiety, diarrhea and vomiting, may be an expected part of the treatment of addiction but should also be reported to a physician.
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