Methadone+Treatment

**Is Methadone a Healthy Alternative to Heroin?**

Methadone is a drug that belongs to the opioid family drugs which consist of heroin, morphine and codeine. It is completely synthetically made and used to treat people who have an opium addiction. Methadone does not actually treat the addiction but rather provides relief from withdrawal symptoms and reduces drug cravings.

Methadone needs to be taken daily and often people who are on a methadone maintenance program stay on it for many years. It is a white crystalline powder that is usually mixed with juice and taken orally. Methadone is also a form of harm reduction. Former heroin users no longer share needles and it helps to prevent the spread of HIV or AIDS. Methadone also provides more stability to users lives and gives them an opportunity to create positive support networks. Whilst taking this medication people can carry out daily routines of work and school. They can partake in being functional members of society. Methadone blocks the ability for patients taking this medication to get high off of using other opioid substances furthering their development towards a healthier lifestyle. People taking this medication rarely get high off of consuming methadone, unless their dose is to high or they have just begun treatment.

When the patient is ready to start coming off of methadone, they can start a gradual weaning process where their dosage is tapered down slowly to avoid more severe withdrawal symptoms.

There are few side effects of taking methadone which are sweating, constipation, weight gain, diminished sex drive. If someone decides to stop taking their methadone abruptly they can experience stomach cramps, diarrhea as well as muscle and bone aches.