Methadone is an opioid commonly used in medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction. Methadone is designed to prevent a rapid high — not cause one.
Methadoneis an opioid commonly used in medication-assisted treatment for addiction. The drug is meant to relieve withdrawal symptoms and acts as an alternative to more potent opioids, such as prescription painkillers or heroin.
Since methadone is also an opioid, there’s a common misconception that methadone treatment simply means replacing one high with another. However, because methadone is formulated as an extremely long-acting drug, a high from methadone is very unlikely.
What Is Methadone?
Methadone is an effective opioid agonist used to treatheroinandopioid addiction, but it can also be used for severe pain. When used as prescribed, methadone works to suppress withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for other drugs. The drug takesup to five daysof constant use to fully kick in, meaning that a high is unlikely. One doselasts for 24 to 55 hours, making it an ideal detox agent for ongoing treatment.
Because methadone is so long-lasting, taking doses too close together or in large quantities can be especially dangerous. Symptoms of slowed breathing canlast longerwith methadone than with other opioids, putting a person at risk of an overdose. In addition, doctors urge patients to avoid combining medication or alcohol withmethadone treatment. Taking this drug without the proper guidance and precautions can result in life-threatening and sometimes fatal consequences.
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Does Methadone Get You High?
Although it is possible to induce a methadone high, it is very difficult. This opioid is a long-acting medication that releases the drug in increments throughout the day, and it takesup to five daysto reach a full effect. For these reasons, a quick, euphoric rush is difficult to achieve with methadone.
Signs of Methadone Abuse
Methadone abuse and addictioncan create a number of health risks and side effects. The most commonsigns of methadone abuseinclude:
- Being unable to stop taking the drug, even if you want to
- Making mistakes at work or school
- Harming personal relationships
- Needing larger amounts of methadone to achieve the same effects as before
- Craving methadone
Other serious health risks associated with methadone abuse include slowed breathing, overdose and even death.
Overcoming Methadone Addiction
Recovery is a journey that does not have to be taken alone. If you or a loved one is struggling withmethadone addiction, The Recovery Village is here to guide you through an effective recovery plan that can suit your needs. Don’t wait another day to begin your path toward a healthier life —contact usto speak with one of our helpful representatives and learn more about the many treatment services we offer.
