Methadone has been used in the United States since 1947 as an effective maintenance treatment for opioid addiction. The reason for needing to attend a methadone detox center program is that, like other opioid medications, tolerance and dependence can develop with repeated and prolonged use.
At New Start Recovery, our drug detox center can accommodate those struggling with methadone addiction and those in need of heroin addiction treatment. Our methadone detox center can help individuals get back on the path to recovery.
How Methadone Is Used
Methadone is a synthetic opioid used medically as an analgesic, anti-addictive, and reductive preparation for individuals with opioid dependency, as well as a pain reliever. It works by stabilizing patients and can block the euphoric effects of heroin, morphine, and similar drugs. Properly medicated methadone patients can reduce or stop their use of these substances altogether.
Still, it has not always functioned to curb addiction to redirect it and maintain dependency on a substitute medication. An individual with tolerance or dependency on methadone will demonstrate drowsiness, dangerously slow breathing, irregular heartbeat, confusion, mood swings, and tolerance for the drug. The long-term side effects of chemical dependency on methadone range from lung infections, impaired judgment, problems with coordination to serious heart conditions.
How to Detox from Methadone
Methadone is not chemically structured the same way as heroin, morphine, Vicodin, and other opiates. Still, dependency symptoms can be equally challenging to overcome, and methadone detox is recommended. It’s important not to minimize the consequences of methadone addiction simply because it’s a medication. The potential for overdose and dangerous withdrawal symptoms are significant, and thousands of people suffer accidental deaths each year.
Detoxing will require tapering off the drug, and general withdrawal symptoms won’t set in until after a day without the drug. Typical withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Lightheadedness
- Tearing eyes
- Excessive sweating
- Depression or anxiety
- Body aches
- Uncontrollable shaking
- Intense cravings
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
These symptoms will vary depending on the duration and degree of use. While there is no quick cure, it’s possible to successfully transition through withdrawal into recovery with proper care and attention.
What to Expect from Methadone Detox at New Start Recovery
The process of how to detox from methadone at New Start Recovery begins with an initial health assessment involving physical examination, including a visual screening of patients, to establish a comprehensive evaluation of each client.
Our clinical staff members have experience working with individuals detoxing from methadone, and it’s important to generate a basic knowledge of medical history, history of abuse, personal well-being, psychological and emotional condition. Variables such as age, number of years using, the amount used per week, family history, and any underlying mental disorders are considered to develop an effective treatment plan. Our professionals work with clients to draw up a treatment plan incorporating daily individual and group therapy sessions.
Throughout detox, we work with clients to outline a long-term treatment plan in preparation to transition successfully to the next phase of recovery. We provide several addiction treatment programs once detox is complete, like:
- Residential treatment
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Sober living program
- Alumni program
At New Start Recovery, we are committed to providing a comfortable and safe environment, giving our patients the necessary time and tools to build a life free of addiction. Reach out to us today at [Direct].