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Side Effects of Methadone

Methadone is a prescription narcotic that is commonly prescribed by doctors to help people addicted to opiates (most commonly heroin) quit using those drugs. Occasionally, methadone is used as a painkiller after surgery. Methadone should only be used by the person whom it is prescribed to under the direction of a licensed physician. When used as directed, Methadone is a safe drug, but using it may cause some side effects and misuse can have dangerous effects.

  1. Drowsiness

    • Methadone causes drowsiness for many of its users during the first few weeks use. After a period of approximately three to four weeks, the methadone user will develop a tolerance to the sedative effects of the medication. Patients who feel extremely sedate or lethargic while using Methadone should discuss a dosage adjustment with their physician.

    Constipation

    • Methadone use commonly causes constipation and sweating. To avoid the effects of constipation, a Methadone user should increase fluid intake, be physically active and follow a diet plan which is high in fiber. In addition to making the healthy lifestyle changes above, the Methadone user should also consider using stool softeners or laxatives to ease the discomfort of constipation.

    Nausea

    • Methadone may cause nausea in some users when they start using it. After the first week of use, the user will gradually develop a tolerance to the drug and the feelings of nausea should lessen or subside. If the user of Methadone is prescribed a high dosage, the nausea may be more pronounced. If the nausea does not lessen, the Methadone patients should discuss dosage adjustments with their doctors.

    Drug Interactions

    • Methadone is known to interact with some medications. Narcotics, such as muscle relaxers and tranquilizers, should not be used while taking Methadone. Alcohol should not be used while taking Methadone. All other prescription drugs being used by a user prior to beginning a Methadone treatment program should evaluated by a doctor. If Methadone is found to react with a drug prescribed to the user, alternate treatment options should be considered.

    Sleep Complication

    • Users of Methadone may develop insomnia during use. Some users of Methadone may develop feelings of delirium. If feelings of delirium develop while taking Methadone, the user of the medication may wish to speak with her doctor about a dosage adjustment. A reduction in dosage will often cause the feelings of delirium to subside.

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