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Dealing with the Side Effects of Methadone Treatment
There is no medication that is side effect free. Methadone is included in this. Fortunately, there are both alternatives and methods of dealing with these side effects without too much difficulty. You do not have to be a slave to the side effects of methadone.
What are the Side Effects of Methadone Treatment?
The methadone side effects vary depending on the person taking it. Some factors that affect the way your body reacts to methadone are:
- body weight
- dosage
- height
- type of addiction
- length of addiction
Someone who is 100 lbs taking a higher dosage of methadone is more likely to suffer the side effects more severely than someone who is 200 lbs and taking a low dosage. According to the National Library of Medicine, the side effects of methadone normally fall into two categories, mild and severe.
Headaches and nausea are commonly experienced while on methadone.
Mild side effects of methadone are:
- dry mouth
- stomach pain
- constipation
- weakness
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- flushing
- insomnia
A severe side effect of methadone requires medical attention as soon as possible. Some of the severe side effects of methadone are:
- seizures
- swelling of the face, throat, or tongue
- difficulty breathing
- hallucinations
- hives
- rashes
- extreme drowsiness
If you experience any of these side effects, it could mean an allergic reaction or another serious problem is happening.
Why use Methadone Despite the Side Effects?
There are many reasons why some people decide on methadone despite experiencing the mild side effects. If you are one of these people call 800-994-1867Who Answers? to find a treatment center that uses methadone to treat chronic pain and opiate withdrawal. Some of the reasons to use methadone treatment are:
- having chronic pain that is only treatable with methadone
- being addicted to most other opiates
- most of the side effects resolve themselves when the dosage is regulated
- needing a regimented dosage schedule that only methadone can accomplish
Some people are more likely to stay on methadone than they are on other treatments such as Suboxone or buprenorphine, according to a new study published by the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Are Methadone Side Effects Dangerous?
About Methadone Methadone is an opiate drug that is primarily used for the purpose of opiate detox treatment. Unlike other …
What can you do About the Side Effects?
Fortunately for those who wish to try methadone or continue methadone maintenance treatment there are some side effects that are easily treated. Many can be treated with over the counter medications while others can be dealt with through counseling. The good news is that many of the side effects resolve themselves or can be controlled by changing the dosage of methadone or by changing to a methadone like drug such as Suboxone or buprenorphine.
Where can you Find Methadone Treatment or its Alternatives?
There are treatment centers that provide both methadone treatment and the alternatives to methadone treatment. Not every treatment works for every person so it is important to find a treatment center that provides the diversity that you need. For help finding the right treatment center call 800-994-1867Who Answers?. We can help.