Methadone

What is Methadone?

Methadone is a long-acting synthetic opioid used primarily in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder and, less commonly, as a pain-management medication. It works by binding to the same receptors as heroin and other opioids but does so in a slower, controlled way that reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the intense euphoria associated with illicit opioids. Medical methadone is dispensed in tightly regulated clinical settings, often as a liquid but also in tablet or wafer form.

Illicitly obtained methadone may appear as pills or liquid diverted from treatment programs or prescriptions. When misused, it is taken orally, though some may attempt to inject it. Recreational use is risky because methadone’s long half-life can lead to delayed overdose, respiratory depression, and dangerous accumulation in the body. Its potency, duration, and interaction with other depressants (alcohol, benzodiazepines) significantly increase the risk of fatal outcomes.

In point-of-care toxicology programs, methadone is monitored because it is both a legitimate treatment drug and a substance with high misuse potential. Differentiating prescribed use from non-medical use is essential in clinical, workplace, and criminal-justice settings.

Effects:

• Relief of opioid withdrawal symptoms

• Reduction of cravings for heroin or other opioids

• Sedation or drowsiness

• Slowed breathing

• Constipation

• Nausea or vomiting

• Impaired coordination or slowed reaction time

• Sweating or dizziness

• Risk of overdose, especially when mixed with depressants

• Potential for dependence with long-term use