Understanding How Methadone Works in Addiction Treatment
Is methadone the solution to combat your or your loved one’s addiction? Understanding what it is and how methadone works in treating opioid use disorder can guide you in deciding whether it is the right treatment.
At Revive Treatment Centers, we provide outpatient Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT), using methadone as a core tool in the recovery process. Read on to discover how methadone treatment works.
What is Methadone?
Methadone is a medication used to treat opioid addictions. Opioid addiction affects 16 million people worldwide, from all walks of life, many of whom never imagined they would struggle with dependency.
Although methadone is an opioid itself, its use in clinical settings is highly regulated and medically supervised. Methadone works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that drugs like heroin do. However, methadone does not produce the same “high” typically associated with other opioids and instead reduces withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings. This stabilizes a person’s body and mind so that they can focus on recovery.
The Mechanism of How Methadone Works
When someone uses opioids, the drug floods the brain’s opioid receptors, creating a feeling of euphoria or pleasure. Over time, the brain becomes dependent on the presence of the drug, leading to cravings and painful withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not used. Methadone helps to break this cycle.
Methadone, as a full agonist, activates the brain’s opioid receptors much slower and without the intense high as with other opioids. This means it can:
- Prevent withdrawal symptoms
- Reduce cravings
- Provide a level of norm, allowing individuals to function throughout the day.
Additionally, methadone stays in the system longer, providing continuous relief and stability.
How Does Methadone Help With Addiction?
Opioid addiction alters the brain’s chemistry, particularly neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. These chemicals play a key role in regulating mood, motivation, and the feeling of pleasure. When someone uses opioids, there is a surge in dopamine, leading to the sensation characterized as “high”. Misusing opioids can lead to a disruption in the normal functioning of these neurotransmitters.
Methadone helps stabilize these neurotransmitter systems by reducing the dopamine spikes as well as stabilizing the individual’s mood by “normalizing” the brain’s chemistry. This reduces the cycle of craving and withdrawal while alleviating mood swings and emotional stress.
How Long Does Methadone Take to Take Effect?
Methadone typically begins to take effect within 30 minutes to an hour after oral administration. However, the full impact may take longer depending on the individual’s opioid use history and metabolism.
For most patients, methadone is taken once a day, and the dose will vary from person to person depending on the amount of opioids used, their physical and mental health, and whether the person is having any other drugs or treatments.
How Does Methadone Treatment Work to Reduce Withdrawal Symptoms?
Methadone replaces the short-acting opioids in the brain to minimize or eliminate withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal from opioids can be highly intense, both physically and emotionally. Symptoms include muscle aches, nausea, hot and cold flushes, anxiety, restlessness, and severe cravings. At this point, methadone plays a critical role by reducing these symptoms. This allows patients to focus on recovery without the constant pull of addiction.
With fewer withdrawal symptoms, patients are more likely to remain in treatment and engage with therapists who address the underlying cause of addiction.
Benefits of Using Methadone in Treatment Programs
Methadone has proven to be a successful treatment plan for opioid dependence. The benefits of using methadone in a structured MAT program include:
- Long-Lasting Relief: A single dose can relieve withdrawal symptoms for 24 hours or more.
- Reduced Cravings: By occupying opioid receptors, methadone lowers the intense desire to use harmful drugs.
- Improved Daily Functioning: Patients can return to a job, work on rebuilding relationships, and restore normality to their lives.
- Lower Relapse Rate: Methadone treatment has been shown to decrease the likelihood of relapse.
- No Dose Escalation: With methadone, once an effective dose is reached, it doesn’t require ongoing dose increases. Patients can maintain a stable dose over time without the body building a tolerance to it and demanding higher doses.
Methadone vs. Other Addiction Treatment Medications
Methadone is one of three primary medications approved for opioid addiction treatment, along with buprenorphine and naltrexone.
| Addiction Treatment Medications | ||
|---|---|---|
| MEDICATION | TREATMENT RETENTION | ACCESSIBILITY |
| Methadone | Highest | Requires a clinic visit |
| Naltrexone | Lower | Can be prescribed in an office |
| Buprenorphine | Lowest | Requires detox before |
Each medication has its advantages, but methadone’s full agonist action makes it uniquely powerful for many patients.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of Methadone
While methadone is highly effective, it needs to be well-managed in a medically supervised setting. Regular check-ins, dose adjustments, and ongoing support are primary components of the methadone treatment process and are essential for maintaining safety and effectiveness. Although they are uncommon, here are some potential risks and side effects of methadone on the body that patients should be aware of.
Common side effects may include:
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Feeling colder or hotter than usual
- Headaches
- Dry eyes, mouth, and nose
Serious side effects may include:
- Shallow breathing or shortness of breath
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Potential misuse
- Hallucinations
- Chest pain
If an individual is experiencing any of these symptoms after taking methadone, it is important to contact a doctor immediately.
Understanding Methadone Overdose
Methadone overdose can occur if the drug is misused or combined with other substances. Signs of overdose may include:
- Shallow breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Extreme drowsiness or unresponsiveness
- Blue fingernails and lips
- Confusion or disorientation
If an overdose occurs, contact an emergency service immediately. Naloxone can be used to reverse the effects of methadone overdose until professional help can be accessed.
How Methadone Works in Combating Opioid Addiction
Methadone is a powerful tool for overcoming opioid addictions. By reducing withdrawal symptoms, stabilizing brain chemistry, and minimizing cravings, methadone allows individuals to take back control of their lives.
At Revive Treatment Centers, we offer compassionate, professional care tailored to each person’s needs. Combined with therapy, counseling, and community support, methadone opens the door to long-term recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, reach out to us today.
FAQs About How Methadone Works
What is the success rate of methadone treatment?
Methadone treatment has proven to help many people struggling with opioid addiction, with a success rate as high as 90%. Studies have also shown that people in methadone programs are less likely to relapse, overdose, or engage in risky behaviors. This high success rate is due to the comprehensive approach of methadone treatment, which not only addresses the physical symptoms of addiction but also provides counseling and support to address the underlying causes of addiction.
What is a methadone clinic/ methadone program?
A methadone clinic is a treatment center where people with opioid addiction receive methadone as part of a recovery plan. Methadone treatment helps stabilize brain chemistry and supports long-term recovery.
How do methadone clinics work?
Methadone clinics work by dispensing methadone to individuals recovering from opioid addiction. Patients receive daily supervised doses to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Clinics like Revive Treatment Centers offer more than just medication; they also provide counseling, regular check-ins, and a supportive environment. These additional services are crucial in addressing the psychological and social aspects of addiction, helping individuals to not only overcome their physical dependence on opioids but also to rebuild their lives and relationships.
How long does methadone stay in the system?
Methadone stays in a person’s body longer than other opioids. While it can remain in one’s system for approximately 15 to 60 hours, the exact length of time that methadone stays in a person’s system will depend on factors such as health, dose, and how long they have been taking it.
What will happen if I stop taking methadone?
If a person stops taking methadone suddenly, they may experience withdrawal symptoms and an increased risk of relapse. Methadone is a long-acting opioid, so stopping it abruptly can affect one’s physical and emotional well-being.
If you are thinking about stopping methadone, it is important to talk to your treatment provider first. They will help you reduce your methadone dose gradually and safely with close support and counseling to minimize withdrawal symptoms and give you the best chance at long-term recovery.
Is methadone treatment covered by insurance?
Yes, in most cases, insurance will cover the costs of methadone treatment. This includes most Medicaid and many private insurance plans. Contact our insurance team and we will check whether you are eligible for methadone treatment via your insurance provider.