What is Methadone?
Methadone is a drug commonly used to treat addictions to other substances, such as heroin, morphine and opioids. It works by controlling the withdrawal symptoms of those substances, thereby reducing the risk of relapse. When taken as intended, methadone is a safe treatment for addiction that continues to be effective even when taken over a long period of time.
However, people who use methadone without a prescription, in higher-than-recommended doses, or in conjunction with other substances, can suffer serious consequences.
How can it be dangerous if it’s used to treat addiction?
In some cases, users transfer their addiction from their original substance of choice to methadone. When they start to veer away from medical instructions in how they use it, they put themselves at risk of harm. Use of methadone that is not medically supervised is dangerous for the following reasons:
It can lead to death when used by individuals with certain medical conditions, such as severe asthma
It can slow respiration or stop it altogether
Use during pregnancy can lead to life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in the baby
It can lead to death when used with other substances, such as alcohol
It can cause nausea and vomiting, and result in medical complications in those with existing gastrointestinal problems
It can affect judgment, leading to poor decisions and their inherent risks
Accidental overdose is easy, and often fatal
What are the symptoms of methadone addiction?
Methadone addiction can be difficult to detect, because it frequency occurs in individuals who start out by taking the drug as part of a supervised addiction treatment program. Some signs that you or a loved one might be addicted to methadone include the following:
Frequent visits to one or more doctors, for the purposes of obtaining multiple prescriptions
Using the drug in higher dosages or frequencies than recommended
Skipping scheduled doses with the intent of saving up for later high-dose usage
Seeking alternative sources of methadone, such as friends or associates, or suppliers who have previously provided other drugs
Neglect of personal, work and financial responsibilities
How can I get help?
If you are a man in search of a safe, non-judgmental environment in which to recover, look no further than Inspire Change Wellness Addiction Treatment Centre for Men. We offer effective and lasting methadone treatment in Vancouver, using a combination of individual and group therapy, physical activity, nutrition and more. Our drug rehab programs are customized for each individual, and are designed to treat the whole person, and not only the addiction. For more information about how to get started on a path to a better life, call us today. It is never too late to get help.