| Brand Name | Dolophine, Methadose |
| Generic Name | Methadone |
| Drug Class | Mu-Opioid Receptor Agonist |
| Availability | Prescription |
| Manufacturer | Various (Generic) |
| Indications | Pain management (acute or chronic) |
| Type | Tablet |
| Doses | 2.5-10 mg orally every 8-12 hours for pain |
| Route | Oral, IV |
| Side Effects | Drowsiness, constipation, nausea, QT prolongation, respiratory depression |
| Interactions | Prolongs QT interval; interacts with antidepressants, antipsychotics |
| Overdose | Nausea, dizziness, CNS depression. |
| Missed Dose | Take ASAP. |
| Contraindications | Respiratory depression, QT prolongation, paralytic ileus. |
| Alternatives | Fentanyl, Tapentadol, Oxymorphone |
| Co-Pay Assistance Program | Available Rx |
| Patient Assistance Program | Not available |
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Methadone has been applied in the treatment of opioid addiction which eliminates the withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It is also used to treat some patients in the treatment of chronic pain.
Methadone works by acting on the opioid receptor of the brain thus overcoming the cravings, withdrawal as well as being a pain killer.
In most cases, they lead to dizziness, drowsiness, constipation and nausea. The side effects can be quite severe such as a breathing depression and heart complications.
Methadone taken in a tablet, liquid or dissolvable. The dosage will be altered by your health practitioner depending on how you react to the drug and what you need.
Methadone may be administered during pregnancy particularly where there is the addiction to opioids, it however should be administered under strict medical advice. The advantages should outweigh the harm to the fetus.
Should one forget to take a dose intake the same immediately though not too soon before next dose time. Do not substitute a missed dose with over one dose.
Yes, Methadone is an opioid, which will most probably abuse and become addicted to. Taking it under the prescriptions of a physician, in order to avoid its abuse, is required.
Sure, Methadone may interact with other drugs and specifically with those, which influence the central nervous system or metabolism. It is important to note that you are supposed to consult your healthcare provider on all the medications you are taking.
Methadone may take hours to act in either the pain relief or help to reduce the withdrawal symptoms. It can take a number of days before the dosage is stabilized in the entire benefits in the treatment of addiction.
Yes, Methadone may result in respiratory depression that is attributed to abuse, or comorbidity with other sedatives. It should be remembered that it must be taken in the appropriate amount that will not result in severe complications in breathing.
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