Ohio Methadone Laws

Methadone has been extensively tested and deemed safe and effective for treating opiate withdrawal and controlling dependence. In Ohio, there are strict guidelines clinics must follow when administering methadone treatment.

Programs

• Methadone treatment facilities in Ohio must comply with Section 3719.61 of the Revised Code. These programs may only be run by a private or non-profit organization or a government organization and be properly staffed to maintain the methadone treatment.

License

• Only drug addiction programs licensed under Section 3793.11 of the Ohio Revised Code may administer, prescribe and/or dispense methadone. Any facility who has either been denied or had their license revoked five years before applying for a license may not administer methadone treatment. After receiving a license, it will expire one year after issuance. Licenses may be renewed annually.

Use

• Methadone is only to be administered in liquid form intended for oral ingestion. Facilities may not provide methadone to patients for pain or any other medical reason beside easing withdrawal symptoms and dependence on opiates.

Treatment

• It is unlikely methadone will stop an individual from using drugs. Methadone is sometimes used during detoxification to alleviate symptoms of withdrawal and to control dependence on opiates (i.e., heroin, morphine). For inpatient treatment, only the amount for a single dose is to be administered and should be given immediately. The amount provided for outpatient treatment is to be determined by the patient's treatment provider but the amount shall not exceed the amount permitted by federal law.