Understanding the Pros and Cons of Methadone Treatment

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When someone becomes addicted to opiate drugs such as Percocet, Oxycodone, Vicodin or Codeine, it can be very difficult for them to stop using the drugs on their own. Medications like Methadone can help treat opioid addiction by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, stabilizing brain chemistry and allowing individuals to focus on recovery and rebuilding their daily lives.

What is Methadone?

Methadone eliminates cravings and withdrawal symptoms so you can focus on recovery.

Methadone is a very strong narcotic pain analgesic. It is used to treat chronic and severe pain. It has also been used effectively for over 40 years in treating addiction to opiates. There are pros and cons to Methadone treatment. For example, Methadone is detectable on drug screens. Some may not feel comfortable discussing their addiction with their employers, so this can be a sensitive issue.

Methadone treatment usually requires daily visits to a clinic or treatment center. This can be difficult for patients who have jobs and family responsibilities. Most Methadone treatment programs require that patients follow their strict rules and regulations or they may be removed from the treatment program.  This can leave individuals feeling they have no control over their treatment and that if they make a mistake, they might be kicked out of the treatment program and relapse into drug use.

Methadone is a tool in recovery; however, it is not a cure.

When you start Methadone, it takes time to reach a maintenance dose that relieves your withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The length of time a person remains on methadone treatment varies and is greatly dependent on the patient. Studies have shown that to achieve full benefit from Methadone, you should plan on being on it for one to three years. Some discover that they are unable to function without it and may be on it for life.

According to the National Institute on Drug Addiction (NIDA), research has shown that methadone maintenance is more effective when it includes individual and/or group counseling, with better outcomes when patients are provided with, or referred to, other needed medical/psychiatric, psychological, and social services (e.g., employment or family services).

Benefits of Methadone

The benefits of Methadone treatment are simple. Without the cravings and unpleasant withdrawal symptoms associated with addiction to opiates, a person in treatment can focus and put more effort into other aspects of their treatment, such as individual and group counseling. Because recovery is multifaceted, all aspects of an addiction must be treated. Just because you can manage withdrawal symptoms does not mean you are cured.

The best part of Methadone treatment is that it is legal, so you no longer have to feel ashamed because you are breaking the law to obtain illicit drugs. As well, it is also much less expensive than illicit drugs.

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