Methadone And Addiction: Facts Behind The Drug

By Author: Jill Cohen
Total Articles: 79
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Methadone is a narcotic analgesic, which means that it acts as an intense pain reliever. It works by acting on an addict’s central nervous system, suppressing pain via pain receptor sites. It is used to help those with an addictive drug such as heroin, however itself has addictive properties. Why is methadone addictive? It’s because when a supposedly recovering addict’s brain becomes used to the pain relief provided by methadone (as opposed to natural painkillers, or endorphins), the addict is “desensitized” towards all natural means and seeks pain relief through the continuous use of methadone.

One of the most serious side effects of methadone is that it suppressed your ability to breathe normally. This is why heroin addicts with chronic conditions such as asthma or sleep apnea need to use other treatments for heroin addiction. Other side effects of methadone use include stomach problems, impaired judgment, and can lead to overdose.

All narcotics have certain similar features in that they suppress pain as well as drug cravings. Unfortunately, they can also have adverse effects on other functions that ...
... are “dictated” by the nervous system functions. Someone who is physically dependent on methadone or any type of addictive drug has a growing tolerance to the drug as well as experiences serious withdrawal symptoms.

In cases of methadone addiction, the withdrawal symptoms include insomnia, hypertension, anxiety, chills, nausea, joint pains, excessive perspiration, abdominal cramps and additonal effects. These usually happen when a person goes “cold turkey” meaning that they abruptly stop the drug. Doctors who treat methadone addicts usually take the person gradually off the drug by giving carefully monitored lower doses over a period of time.

Some non-supporters of methadone treatment believe that methadone addiction is far worse than addiction to heroin. However, methadone supporters defend its use by arguing that the effects of heroin are far more dangerous than the potential negative side effects of methadone use.

There is a complexity in this. Methadone provides relief from drug cravings and is generally safe when taken under medical supervision. While it does have addictive properties, unlike heroin, it is legal taken under the care of a physician. Courageous people have been able to free themselves from heroin as well as methadone as they heal.

Learn more about Heroin Intervention and Hard And Soft Drugs .