Methadone

About methadone

Methadone is used in combination with other medicines to help overcome addiction to opiate drugs such as heroin. It works by reducing the withdrawal symptoms that occur when the opiate drug is reduced or stopped.

Methadone also acts as a pain-killer and can be used to treat severe pain. Occasionally it is also used to relieve coughing in terminal illness.

Before taking methadone

Before taking methadone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver, kidney, heart, or breathing problems.
• If you drink a lot of alcohol.
• If you suffer from low blood pressure, are dehydrated, or have lost a lot of fluid (shock).
• If you have prostate problems, or an underactive thyroid gland.
• If you suffer from bowel problems, or have severe bowel pain.
• If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease).
• If you suffer from gallstones or a gallbladder problem.
• If you have recently had a severe head injury.
• If you suffer from a convulsive disorder such as epilepsy.
• If you have adrenal gland problems or phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands).
• If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease).
• If you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression within the last two weeks.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

• Important: children must not be given methadone.

How to take methadone

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take methadone exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than the dose you have been prescribed.
• Take your methadone dose at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, do not take it when you remember. Wait until the next dose is due, then take only one dose. Do not take two doses together to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Methadone is used alongside other treatments for drug addiction. It is important that you keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be reviewed.
• Methadone (even in small amounts) is a special hazard to children and other people if it is swallowed by accident. If you suspect that someone else has taken some of this medicine, get medical help straight away.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first. Taking methadone can lead to addiction and stopping suddenly can cause problems.
• Do not drive while you are taking methadone. Methadone causes drowsiness and will affect your ability to drive. Your doctor will tell you when you can start to drive again.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with methadone.

Can methadone cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store methadone

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines