Methadone was initially a medication designed to help those beat an addiction to opiate medications or street drugs like heroin. In fact, it is still used today for that reason. Methadone is also an opiate medication, so some may find themselves addicted to it as well. This likely happens due to abuse of the medication and not taking it in the manner in which it was prescribed. Some may take too much or add it with other drugs in an effort to gain the "high" they are addicted to. Methadone addiction is serious and could cause serious health related issues and even death.
While Methadone is an effective treatment for addiction, largely because it decreases withdrawal symptoms and does not allow for the euphoric sensation felt from taking opiates or heroin, it is also an opiate medication itself. This means that addiction is a possibility, especially if methadone is not taken properly. Doctors are aware of the potential for dependency but the benefits of Methadone are plentiful and doctors will monitor patients while on this medication. Unfortunately, some will become addicted to this medication while trying to wean themselves off of the drug they became addicted to.
Methadone addiction is potentially life threatening because this is a strong medication and typically is prescribed to be taken only once per day. For those who take it more often, the effects could be deadly. This is because this medication slows down breathing and too much could cause coma or death. It comes with the potential for side effects like drowsiness or weakness already, and increasing dose or coupling it with another medication is dangerous. Some other side effects include headache, missed period, sweating, fluid retention, and decreased sexual drive. Mood changes swelling are also a possibility. Most of these are not an issue until the medication is taken improperly. For nursing mothers, this drug may also be passed to the baby via breast milk, so it is especially important for them to beat addiction.
It may be that addiction to methadone is a gradual problem, and some may not realize a dependency is forming until it is too late. Signs for addiction include, extreme craving for the medication, inability to go for the prescribed amount of time before the next dose, changes in mood such as irritability or depression, and problems maintaining personal and work relationships. These are signs of a problem and should be discussed with a physician to determine the best course of action. Long term drug abuse can affect brain function and decrease intellect. It may also make paying attention for long periods difficult, as well as decrease memory. A study of methadone in animals showed an impairment in attention and brain function when large doses were given. Dependency affects your ability to take in information and retain it, as well as putting your life at risk.
Gradual decrease of this or any drug is crucial for the likelihood of success. Gradual decrease means fewer withdrawal symptoms and fewer cravings for drugs. Detoxification is of course necessary to rid the body of built-up toxins as a result of drug abuse, but this does not have to be a daunting task. Detoxification is scary when symptoms like hallucination, dehydration, nausea and vomiting, and shakes or tremors are a possibility, but there are medications that can help with withdrawal. For those hesitant to take these medications for fear of developing another addiction, it is important to note that all medications should be taken according to doctor advice. If you find yourself needing more or taking it improperly, it is time to discuss alternatives and other medication options with your physician.
After detoxification other support options are available to reduce the chances for relapse. Therapy with a trained counselor can help deal with past traumatic issues and avoiding situations where temptation is likely. Group therapy is available to talk with those who have the same problem and who can offer support twenty-four hours a day.
Drug dependency affects your life and the lives of those who love you. Work ethic becomes an issue and jobs may be lost. Beating addiction can improve your quality of life and put work and personal relationships back on track. Beating addiction can also save your life as coma and overdose are always a possibility. For those looking for a way to beat addiction detoxification, medications, and doctor supervision are the best alternatives. Medications can be prescribed to eliminate or decrease withdrawal and make a drug free life a strong possibility.
