The personnel at a methadone clinic will conduct a screening and assessment on a patient during their initial visit to the clinic. Because of the potential for methadone to cause addiction, a clinic may choose to closely supervise a patient's intake of the medicine depending on the patient's past experience with substance abuse. Because this kind of treatment poses a risk to patients who already have specific health problems, it is essential for doctors to gather as much information as possible about their patients' histories before initiating this treatment.
During this period, methadone is capable of inhibiting the euphoric effects that are produced by other opioids. In addition to this, it reduces the withdrawal symptoms, which may be quite unpleasant, that individuals experience when they stop taking other opioids.
Methadone clinics provide patients who are prepared to kick their opioid addiction with a number of different treatment choices to choose from. Despite the fact that methadone is an opioid in and of itself, it possesses a number of distinct qualities that lend it use as a therapy and rehabilitation aid. After taking the medication for the first time, it normally takes around half an hour before its effects become noticeable. However, with continued usage, the drug's half-life can increase to 24 hours, which indicates that its effects will continue to be noticeable for this period of time.
Methadone can cause life-threatening or serious breathing problems. Your doctor will closely follow you during your treatment. Talk to your doctor if you have had asthma or slow breathing. Most likely, your doctor will tell you to stop taking methadone. Your doctor will likely tell you not to take methadone if you have had or are currently suffering from lung disease, such as chronic obstructive lung disease (a group that includes chronic bronchitis or emphysema), or a head injury. Also, inform your doctor if there is any condition that can increase the pressure in your brain. You are more likely to develop breathing problems if you're older, or if you have been ill. Call your doctor right away if you feel any of the following symptoms: slow breathing; long pauses between breaths; or shortness or difficulty in breathing.
Methadone could cause you to become addicted. Follow the instructions. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for longer periods of time than directed by your doctor. Discuss with your healthcare provider your pain management goals, length of treatment, as well as other methods to manage your pain. Talk to your doctor if you drink or have used large amounts of alcohol. You are more likely to abuse methadone if your medical history includes any of the following: Ask your healthcare provider for help if you believe you are suffering from an opioid addiction.