How You Can Benefit from Methadone Maintenance
The CDC estimates that nearly 1 million people in the United States alone are addicted to opiates such as heroin or prescription painkillers. Many of those who are addicted suffer great consequences as a result of their addiction despite their growing desire to get help and to live a normal, sober lifestyle. If you’re struggling with an addiction to heroin or other drugs, methadone maintenance can help you get back in control and restore balance into your life.
Restoration of Stability
According to a study posted in IDU HIV Prevention, although methadone maintenance treatment is controversial in many ways, this treatment has restored balance and stability into the lives of those in need improving their overall chances of recovery from opiate addiction and allowing them to live a semi-normal life. This is just the beginning of the benefits that are to be received in MMT.
No More Cravings
Methadone maintenance treatment reduces the cravings that a user will have when they are addicted to opiates and this can help to reduce drug seeking behavior allowing the user to feel more at ease and comfortable in recovery. The reduction of cravings also helps to further promote psychological healing as the addict is able to focus on recovery rather than being focused on the aftermath of their desire to use.
No Intoxication
According to healthcare professionals, when methadone is taken as prescribed and when the right dosing methods are adhered to, there is no intoxication. Methadone does not cause the user to feel “high” or “euphoric” and this limits the risk of users making any attempt to “cheat the system” or use the drug for anything other than to maintain their stability and sobriety.
Reduced Criminal Activity
Methadone maintenance is part of a once a day program in which the user will take the medication and feel at ease with their symptoms for the entire 24 hours. There is no need to go through great lengths to come up with money for drugs and there is no need to lie, cheat or steal to fuel an opiate habit. The reduction of these behaviors also works to reduce criminal activity and can render you a fully functioning and active member of society.
Improved Safety
MMT is safe if you follow doctor’s orders and take the medication as prescribed. When methadone is used as part of a treatment plan to overcome opiate addiction, there are fewer risks associated with injury or illness, risky behavior, illicit activity, criminal prosecution or overdose which is so common in people who have become addicted to illicit opiates such as heroin or certain types of prescription drugs.