Liquid methadone is a medication frequently used in opioid addiction management. However, there are some potential risks and uncomfortable side effects involved.
Methadoneis a medication that’soften usedto ease withdrawal symptoms in people struggling with opioid addiction. Methadone works by “blocking” the high that opioid drugs like heroin create, and it also relieves common withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, depression and nausea. With the help of methadone, it’s less tempting to use illicit drugs as a way to cope with withdrawal symptoms, and it can be easier to begin the road to recovery.
Methadone can also be used for pain relief,particularly in seriously ill peoplewho are in palliative or hospice care.
It’s important to note that methadone itself is an opioid, and as aSchedule II controlled substance, it can lead to abuse, dependence and addiction. In addition, methadone in liquid or pill form can cause avariety of side effects, including:
- Insomnia
- Muscle weakness
- Anxiety
- Nervousness
More serious side effects may include hallucinations, chest pain and fainting.
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What Color Is Liquid Methadone?
Liquid methadoneis available as a red, cherry-flavored liquid under the brand name Methadose. It is also available as a clear, unflavored liquid under the brand name Methadose Sugar-Free. These drugs are intended to be taken orally.
Can You Inject Liquid Methadone?
Methadone prescribed for oral use should never be injected. It is not meant to enter the bloodstream; instead, it is meant to pass through the stomach and be digested by the body. Drugs that are meant to be digested and drugs that are meant to be injected are formulated quite differently. As such, serious complications like overdose and even accidental death can occur from injecting liquid methadone that is meant to be taken orally.
This occurs because methadone liquid for oral use is not a pure substance; it has a variety of fillers and additives. Further, it is not a sterile substance, meaning that it can increase the risk of infection.
Liquid Methadone Dosage
With controlled substances like methadone, it’s incredibly important to get the dosage amount correct. This is the primary reason why patients typically must obtain methadone from approved clinics.
When determining the correct dosage of methadone, the person’s age, general condition and medical status will all be taken into account. The methadone dose can also vary based on the person’s reason for taking the drug. In those seeking to come off other opioids, a common starting dose of methadone is 10 mg to 30 mg, while a common maintenance dose is 60 mg to 120 mg.
Although methadone can help you on the road to recovery, it still comes with its own set of side effects and challenges. If you or a loved one could be struggling with a substance use disorder involving methadone or other drugs, The Recovery Village is here to help.Contact ustoday to speak with a compassionate, well-trained representative who can discuss treatment plans and programs that can work well for your needs.
