What Is Methadone

Methadone, also known as Dolphine, Symoron, Amidone

, Methadose and various other names, is a synthetic opioid. Methadone is used as an analgesic and as a maintenance anti-addictive medication in patients with opioid dependency. It was developed in 1937 in Germany, and was introduced in the United States in 1947 by Eli Lilly and Company.

Methadone has been used for more than 30 years in the treatment of opioid addiction. Decades of scientific research have proven methadones effectiveness. For example, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that weekly heroin use decreased by 69 percent among outpatient methadone maintenance patients.

Methadone reduces withdrawal symptoms in those addicted to heroin, and can block the euphoric effects of heroin, morphine and similar drugs. Methadone is also used in managing severe, chronic pain.

Methadone targets the same receptors in the brain as opiates do and can relieve many of the symptoms of opiate withdrawal. Methadone reduces the drug cravings and harsh withdrawal symptoms that often lead to relapse. The most effective methadone treatment program combines the drug with addiction counseling.

Methadone is dispensed orally in several different forms. It is available in tablets, also called diskettes, in a powder that dissolves in water, and in a liquid form. Although methadone is not a single product from a single manufacturer, the active ingredient is always the same: methadone hydrochloride. All manufacturers add inactive ingredients, such as fillers, preservatives and flavorings.

The body metabolizes methadone differently than it does heroin or morphine. When a person takes methadone regularly, it builds up and is stored in the body, so it lasts even longer when used for maintenance. Most people find that once they're stabilized on a dose of methadone that's right for them, a single oral dose will "hold" them for at least a full 24-hour day. For some, the effect lasts longer; for others it lasts a shorter time.

When used in proper doses in maintenance treatment, methadone does not create euphoria, sedation, or an analgesic effect. Doses must be individually determined. The proper maintenance dose is the one at which the cravings stop, and the euphoric effects of other opiates is blocked.

by: mtdnc

POST COMMENT

How Hearing Aids Work Opt For Picnic Tables To Assure An Organized Affair Asus Factory-refurbished Laptop / Intel Core I3 Processor / 15.6" Display - Brown Mansion For You Glimpses Into The Life Of A Crime Scene Clean Up Professional! Best Laser Making Intended For True Engraving Purposes Netball Encourages Sense Of Community Between Associates Your Hamilton Orthodontist Providers Feel Paris Charm In Paris Seine Trip The Necessary Utilities Of Pull Up Banner How To Work The Mediterranean Diet Causes Of Woman Weight Gain Hp Pavilion Laptop / Amd A-series Processor / 15.6" Display / 6gb Memory - Dark Umber