Methadone is a synthetic opiate narcotic that when administered once daily, orally, in adequate doses, can usually suppress a heroin addicts cravings and withdrawal for 24 hours. The problem is that patients then become as physically dependent on Methadone as they were to heroin or other opiates. With heroin there is a cycle that consists of intoxication, initially, followed by a period of normal mental functioning which then yields to the discomfort of withdrawal and craving. A vicious cycle that repeats every 4-8 hours with heroin, can be eliminated with expert maintenance Methadone treatment. This is possible because Methadone is released more slowly into the system and lasts much longer than heroin and most other opiates. Short-acting opiates, like heroin, hydrocodone, and morphine perpetuate and create abnormal processes in the brain, which interfere with feeling normal and functioning normally. Taking Methadone instead, stops most aspects of this destructive process while normalizing important neurobiological functions. After stabilization on the proper dose, Methadone won’t produce the high or “rush” felt with heroin abuse. The problem is that most people go from being addicted to heroin to a Methadone Addiction. Most addicts will stay on this “treatment” for years fearing that if they stop it, the cravings and withdrawal symptoms from heroin addiction will come back. Sadly, the studies show that the withdrawal symptoms from Methadone Addiction can be as bad, if not worse, than the withdrawal and cravings from heroin addiction.

Ironically, Methadone, used to control narcotic addiction, is frequently encountered on the black market and has been associated with a number of overdose deaths. Some signs and symptoms of overdose may include Muscle spasticity, Difficulty breathing, Slow, shallow, or labored breathing, Stopped breathing (sometimes fatal within 2-4 hours), Pinpoint pupils, Bluish skin, Bluish fingernails and lips, Spasms of the stomach and intestinal tract, Constipation, Weak pulse, Low blood pressure, Drowsiness, Disorientation, and Coma.

Methadone Addiction does not have to be a way of life for former heroin and opiate users or for anyone else. There are treatment facilities that can help. Gradual cessation followed by a drug-free program of rehabilitation can be the answer for many that suffer from Methadone Addiction. If you or someone you know suffers from Methadone Addiction, please call us. We are here for you and your loved ones through your time of need.