Methadone

Methadone Hydrochloride is an opioid (a synthetic opiate) that was originally synthesized by German pharmaceutical companies during the Second World War because of the shortage of morphine. It was first marketed as 'Dolophine' and was used as an analgesic (a painkiller) for the treatment of severe pain. It is still occasionally used for pain relief. Methadone is now primarily used for the treatment of narcotic addiction. The effects of methadone are longer-lasting than those of morphine-based drugs. Methadone's effects can last up to 24 hours, thereby permitting administration only once a day in heroin detoxification and maintenance programs.

Methadone, a drug long valued for treating heroin addiction and for soothing chronic pain, is increasingly being abused by recreational drug users and is causing an alarming increase in overdoses and deaths as it produces similar effects to heroin and morphine plus its effect last from 24-72 hours depending upon the dose. It is usually prescribed as liquid syrup (linctus or methadone mixture) to be swallowed but it is also manufactured as tablets and ampoules for injection.

When methadone is prescribed to people addicted to other opiates (primarily heroin), the guidelines for the dosage are that enough should be given to prevent physical withdrawal symptoms - when you are prescribed methadone it is not supposed to give you a buzz, or get you high. If you take methadone orally (mixture or linctus), it will take around thirty minutes before you feel the effects. If you are using injectable methadone then the drug takes effect much more rapidly. As an opiate, regular use of methadone causes physical dependency - if you've been using it regularly (prescribed or not) once you stop you will experience a withdrawal. The physical changes due to the drug are similar to other opiates (like heroin); suppressed cough reflex, contracted pupils, drowsiness and constipation. Some methadone users feel sick when they first use the drug. If you are a woman using methadone you may not have regular periods - but you are still able to conceive. Methadone is a long-acting opioid; it has an effect for up to 36 hours (if you are using methadone you will not withdraw for this period) and can remain in your body for several days.

Methadone is a very powerful drug, and individual doses vary for each person. If you are using methadone that you have bought illegally be aware that you could overdose on an amount that would seem 'normal' to somebody else - especially if you are not using opiates regularly, and therefore have a low tolerance (it doesn't take very much to affect you). If you are using methadone regularly - prescribed or not - taking a higher dose than normal or using other depressant drugs (like alcohol, heroin, tranquillizers or sleeping tablets) on top could cause you to overdose and its effects can be fatal. So, be careful as “Methadone” is a killer drug if abused.