Methadone is an opioid used to treat heroin and morphine abuse, as well as severe chronic pain. It delivers its painkilling properties a lot more slowly than either heroin or morphine. The drug itself can also be abused, which makes it a controversial addiction treatment choice.
Signs Of Methadone Use and Abuse
Signs that a loved one may have a problem with methadone abuse include:
Getting prescriptions from more than one doctor (doctor shopping)- Lying to the doctor about symptoms to get a higher dose or more pills
- Using the drug more often than directed
- Getting the drug from sources other than a doctor or clinic, such as friends who have access to methadone
- Using methadone with other opioids, such as heroin, morphine or OxyContin, or using with alcohol
Getting prescriptions from more than one doctor (doctor shopping)Some people who take methadone for addiction treatment are required to visit a clinic daily to get their dose. Once they have had a chance to adjust to the drug and have been taking it for some time, the clinic may allow them to take enough methadone for a few days’ treatment home with them.
In the case of a patient being treated for chronic pain, the methadone would be dispensed in a pill format instead of a preparation that needs to be mixed with water or juice and taken at a clinic. Both instances would allow for someone with a methadone abuse issue to take more of the drug than directed by a doctor.
Symptoms Of Methadone Withdrawal
If your loved one develops a tolerance for methadone and is unable to obtain the drug at the dose he or she requires, withdrawal symptoms will start to occur. These symptoms include the following:
- Chills
- Cramping
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Restlessness
- Sore muscles
- Vomiting
Get Help For Methadone Abuse
The Dunes East Hampton’s prescription drug treatment program in New York is the right choice for your loved one to successfully recover – mind, body and soul. Our facility can offer them a comfortable, luxurious and private place where the only thing they need to do is focus on getting well.
Call now tolearn about the symptoms of methadone use and discover how our holistic treatment program that is individualized to suit your loved one’s needs can help them break free from the bondage of addiction!
