Methadone Treatment

Individuals in search of treatment for methadone addiction is becoming more and more common, as addicts are abusing this dangerous substance. Methadone is a synthetic opiate that was originally synthesized by German pharmaceutical companies during the Second World War. It was first used as a painkiller for the treatment of severe pain, and is still occasionally used for this purpose.

Because it is so potent and effective as a pain killer, the DEA has allowed physicians to prescribe it for pain control. However, today methadone is primarily used for the treatment of narcotic addiction, specifically heroin and other opiate drugs. This type of treatment for addiction is commonly referred to as "methadone maintenance". With methadone maintenance, the heroin or other opiate addict takes regular daily doses of methadone in order to curb the withdrawal and cravings that are associated with opioids. Methadone is a long-lasting drug, and its effects last two to three times longer than those of other morphine-based drugs. Methadone's effects can last up to 24 hours, which is why the individual taking part in treatment only requires daily administration of the drug as part of opiate detoxification and methadone treatment programs.

Where the problem comes in is, many individuals go from being addicted to heroin to being addicted to methadone. Methadone maintenance programs can literally continue for years or for the duration of one's life. Methadone addiction can be a far greater burden than other opiate drugs, because if an individual decides to get off of methadone the withdrawal symptoms are much more intense and longer lasting.

Methadone addiction can be successfully overcome and treated in a drug rehab facility that specializes in methadone addiction. There are a number of programs which provide treatment for methadone addiction, all of which have the same goal of helping the individuals figure out how to live without using methadone. Methadone does not have to be the way of life for former heroin addicts, and treatment for methadone addiction is available. A detox including gradual cessation followed by a drug-free drug rehab program for methadone addiction is the answer.

Treatment for methadone addiction typically includes medical and psychological components. The rehabilitation process will start with a thorough detox until it is certain that all of the methadone is removed from the person's body. This will also help the individual get through the difficult process of withdrawal, where medical staff and professional drug counselors will help temper symptoms and make it as comfortable as possible. It is important to be in a rehab setting, as withdrawing is why people can't just quit on their own. Detox should be done under medical supervision to insure this process is completed safely and painlessly.

Once medically detoxed and physically stable, the rehabilitation process includes education about addiction and behavioral therapy to address what is at the root of their addiction issues. Some methadone addiction treatment centers incorporate a holistic approach. Group therapy is also generally a part of most rehab programs which focus on treatment for methadone addiction.