What is Methadone

Methadone is a synthetic opioid that is used in chronic pain management and in the treatment of opiate addiction. As a treatment for addiction, methadone is taken orally on a daily basis in either a liquid or tablet form.

Benefits of Methadone

• Methadone is a legal medication that is prescribed by a physician and carefully monitored.
• Methadone is administered orally and reduces the dangers associated with injection drug use.
• Methadone is typically administered by a treatment clinic that provides ongoing counseling and support.
• With stable daily dosing, methadone does not produce a drug high or interfere with daily functioning.
• Methadone patients have access to medical and social services that are important for rebuilding health and quality of life.
• When given in the proper dosage, methadone eliminates opiate withdrawal symptoms and drug seeking behavior.
• As a result of not being sick from withdrawal, individuals are able to refocus on work, family, and other responsibilities.
• Methadone (combined with counseling and support) provides a new start and the ability to reclaim one's life.

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The Counseling Component

Methadone alone will eliminate opiate withdrawal. But without counseling and behavioral therapy, most addicted individuals will relapse. Coping skills development and lifestyle change are essential areas of growth important to the recovery process. Counseling teaches skills for understanding the addictive process, avoiding relapse, and successfully managing one's recovery during and after treatment.

Many opiate dependent individuals may have a co-occurring disorder, like depression or anxiety, that require special interventions. Comprehensive treatment will address these areas of need too so that a client's stabilization and recovery are successful long term.

Methadone.US is a starting point for learning about methadone treatment and recovery from opiate addiction.

Long term dependency on opiates becomes a chronic uphill battle for someone caught in the cycle of opiate misuse and opiate withdrawal.

Methadone Treatment (also referred to as an OTP or Opioid Treatment Program) is a solution for many individuals struggling with addiction.