What is methadone addiction?

Methadone addiction: A serious & complex issue

Methadone addiction affects individuals who have been prescribed this medication for pain management or as part of medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction. Like other opioids, methadone can produce euphoria and create a sense of calm and relaxation, which can be highly addictive. Prolonged use without proper medical supervision or misuse can result in tolerance, meaning higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects, and withdrawal symptoms if use is abruptly stopped. Methadone addiction requires comprehensive treatment that addresses the physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of the addiction, helping individuals rebuild their lives and regain control over their health and well-being.

At Reviving You Recovery, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and effective treatment options for individuals struggling with methadone addiction, including those seeking to detox from methadone.

Our team of experienced and compassionate medical professionals understands the unique challenges associated with methadone detoxification and is committed to supporting our clients every step of the way.

We offer a personalized approach to detox, tailoring our treatment plans to meet the specific needs and goals of each individual. Our goal is to not only help clients successfully complete the detox process, but also to equip them with the necessary tools and resources for long-term recovery. We believe in the power of hope, healing, and transformation, and are here to guide and support our clients throughout their journey to sobriety.

We offer a wide range of comprehensive and personalized treatment programs to address the unique needs of each person struggling with addiction. Our team of experienced professionals provides compassionate care and evidence-based therapies to support individuals in their journey to recovery. From social model detoxification to intensive inpatient programming, we are committed to helping individuals regain control of their lives and achieve long-term sobriety. With our holistic approach and supportive environment, Reviving You Recovery is the place to turn to for addiction.

Because the withdrawal process can cause adverse symptoms, methadone users are advised to detox in a medical environment. At Reviving You Recovery our highly trained and professional staff will carefully help reduce the severity of methadone withdrawal symptoms.

The withdrawal process is different for everyone. The symptoms and duration of withdrawal will vary depending on the severity and length of the user’s addiction. A user’s body chemistry and tolerance will also affect their symptoms and how long the withdrawal process takes.

Withdrawal symptoms

Symptoms of withdrawal from methadone are similar to those of other Opiates, such as heroin and morphine. Many users especially struggle with methadone withdrawal because the medication stays in the body longer. Methadone withdrawal symptoms are usually moderate and flu-like. Those with more severe methadone addictions will likely experience more serious withdrawal symptoms. If the user is addicted to multiple substances, the withdrawal process may be longer and more intense. Quitting cold turkey will cause more severe withdrawal symptoms. Doctors usually recommend tapering off use of methadone to make the withdrawal process more bearable.

• Sweating

• Rapid heartbeat

• Stomach cramps

• Irritability

• Paranoia

• Diarrhea

• Chills

• Fever

• Anxiety

• Cravings

• Insomnia

• Hallucinations

• Depression

• Muscle aches and pains

• Nausea

• Vomiting

Methadone withdrawal: Days 1-2

Symptoms of withdrawal usually don’t begin until at least 30 hours after user’s last dose of methadone, and it may take even longer depending on the amount used. Physical symptoms, such as chills, fever, rapid heartbeat, and muscle aches, will begin during this time.

Methadone withdrawal: Days 3-8

Over the next week, methadone cravings will be strong. Users face anxiety, body aches and pains, nausea, and insomnia, as well as irritability and anxiety. Flu-like physical symptoms will persist. Due to how long methadone stays in the body, it often takes between 3 and 8 days for symptoms to peak. At this point, additional symptoms such as depression, vomiting, and cramps begin to appear.

Methadone withdrawal: Days 9-15

After withdrawal peaks, symptoms will begin to subside, although some will remain such as irritability, diarrhea, and physical discomfort. Users may still feel strong drug cravings and depression may set in. Depression can become severe and some patients may have difficulty feeling pleasure or getting motivated.

Methadone withdrawal: Days 15+

Withdrawal symptoms from methadone such as low energy levels, anxiety, trouble sleeping, and cravings typically persist for 2-3 weeks. After the 3-6 week detox process is over, many former methadone users will experience post-acute withdrawal symptoms, or PAWS. PAWS may continue for many months, and in some cases for up to 2 years. PAWS may include irritability, anxiety, depression, the inability to feel pleasure, difficulty sleeping, and poor concentration.