Methadone Maintenance Treatment Program Myths

Methadone has been used in the treatment of opiate addiction for decades. It remains a reliable and effective tool in reducing withdrawal symptoms and allowing addicts to focus on their recovery. Despite these facts, numerous myths still surround the use of methadone or treatment programs that include it. Here are some methadone maintenance treatment program myths you may have heard.

Myth: Methadone Causes Weight Gain

Although one of the side effects listed for methadone is weight gain, a comprehensive treatment program also includes healthy eating and exercise. Addiction treatment programs aim to make you healthy. A person practicing a full methadone maintenance program should not gain weight from simply using methadone.

Myth: Treatment Programs are Only About the Methadone

According to the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute at the University of Washington, the best methadone maintenance treatment programs include a strong focus on counseling, therapy, and other medical or social needs. Methadone is a tool to reduce withdrawal symptoms and allow the patient to engage in the other, more important aspects of their treatment.

Myth: Comprehensive Methadone Rehab Programs are Expensive

You can continue to work while on MMT.

Most methadone rehab programs offer a number of financial options to help defray these costs, meaning they charge for services on sliding scale according to income.  More importantly, most insurance companies now pay for addiction treatment and medication. If you are in need methadone treatment program that takes your insurance, call us at 800-994-1867Who Answers? today.

Myth: The Media Depiction of Methadone Clinics is Accurate

Methadone clinics are required to meet strict medical standards and are closely monitored by several state and federal agencies to ensure that they are safe, clean, and effective. Methadone clinics are places of healing, not hubs of criminal activity or other such actions. Many methadone treatment facilities are in beautiful locations with a variety of options.

Myth: You cannot Work or Go to School on Methadone

According to the Canadian Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, once a stable dosage of methadone is achieved the user suffers no effects that would prevent them from being able to go about their lives normally. The proper, stable dosage is usually achieved in one to two weeks, meaning you do not have to leave your job or education in order to pursue a methadone maintenance treatment program.

Mythbusting Methadone Maintenance: Helping Others Understand Your Treatment Program

Unfortunately, there are many myths surrounding methadone maintenance and its validity as a treatment method. Friends, family members, coworkers, or …

Myth: Methadone is a Cure for Opiate Addiction

Methadone is part of an overall treatment program for opiate addiction. A solid methadone maintenance treatment program will help you manage your chronic pain and remain withdrawal free. There is no cure for addiction, but a comprehensive treatment program can help you recover and live a drug free life.

Myth: Finding a Methadone Maintenance Program is Difficult

There are numerous methadone treatment centers around the country. For help finding a treatment program that meets your needs, call us at 800-994-1867Who Answers?. We have knowledgeable and dedicated staff standing by to assist you getting the treatment that you need and giving you a chance at life without opiate addiction.