Methadone Side Effects

In United States, Methadone has been used as a drug for the treatment of opiate addiction since decades. People claim that it has been effective and as such has no side effects. Methadone side effects are generally regarded as mild and not too overpowering. All around the world, people using this drug provide testimony to the fact that they respond well to the drug. However, health of an individual is extremely important; therefore, it is imperative to discuss Methadone side effects.

Methadone side effects are a matter of research for numerous scientists. If the dosage of the medicine is correct, then there are no risks of kidney, heart, liver, lungs or any type of failure. There are no Methadone side effects that impair your ability to lead a normal life.  You can conduct all routine activities. Another important thing that should be made clear about this medicine is that if the medication is used inappropriately, then you will experience Methadone side effects. People generally experience Methadone side effects at the start of the treatment. There are only a few people, who have claimed that this medicine gets intolerable.

A number of common Methadone side effects include constipation, skin rash, water retention, dizziness, weakness, extreme sweating and flushing and in some circumstances erectile dysfunction and adjustments in sex drive. However, these Methadone side effects can easily be removed, if you use a number of precautions. To eliminate the chances of constipation and excessive sweating, try to eat high-fiber diets. You should also take precautions to eliminate the chances of dehydration. Also, take regular exercise. Some people also experience Methadone side effects, relating to sexual dysfunction. In men, it leads to delayed ejaculation, reduced libido and at times, even impotence. However, this varies from age groups. Around 40 percent of men belonging to the age group over 40 years experience erectile dysfunction while on this medication. This side effect is only around 12 percent in men below the age of 40. Some women may experience changes in their menstruation cycles, while others may not. If you experience sedation and drowsiness, then the dosage of the drug is excessive. However, if you experience itchiness, hives and skin reactions, contact your doctor immediately. This remains one of the excessive Methadone side effects, and requires treatment immediately. However, the rest of Methadone side effects usually disappear within one week.

There are other Methadone side effects which people may experience during the course of treatment that include depression, anxiety, weakness, restlessness, craving for drugs, muscle aches and nausea, to name a few. However, if these do not disappear within one week, you can contact your healthcare provider.

A number of people have myths associated with methadone side effects. However, Methadone does not cause weight gain. It is rather the heightening of appetite after using the prescription that ‘may’ cause an individual to gain weight. It does not even create problems in teeth or bones.

However, you can tackle Methadone side effects quite effectively. If you cannot, you can switch to Suboxone, which is better tolerated.

What is Methadone?

A narcotic pain reliever and a treatment for opiate addiction, Methadone has different names, which includes Symoron, Dolophine and Methadose among others. This medicine is used to treat the withdrawal symptoms, which occur due to heroin addiction. Although, Methadone itself is regarded as a drug, and it may become addictive in some patients, it does not create a feeling of ecstasy as other drugs do. This medicine was initially developed in Germany in the year 1937. If someone is experiencing immense, chronic pain for a long time, this medicine can also treat those pains. However, many studies have come to an agreement with the fact that there are many Methadone side effects.

Ways of using the medicine

It is rather imperative to know the usage of the medicine because incorrect usage can have devastating Methadone side effects. This medicine comes in different forms. These include a liquid form, a concentrated solution, which needs dilution before usage, as a tablet and even a dispersible tablet. If Methadone is prescribed for pain, it needs to be taken every 4 to 12 hours. However, if you are using the medicine to combat opiate addiction, then your doctor will prescribe the correct way of it.

A few precautions

While on Methadone, you need to follow certain precautions because the long term usage of this medicine can have devastating Methadone side effects. It leads to long-term addiction in a few individuals. If your doctor puts you on this medicine, you need to make the doctor aware if you have any allergies or reactions to certain types of medicine. Moreover, you also need to inform your doctor if you are taking any other prescriptions while on Methadone. Otherwise, there are devastating impacts if two prescriptions collide in the system. Additionally, your doctor needs to know if you are on any anti-depressants. If you have any other special medical conditions, you need to make your doctor aware of them so that he or she can prescribe you the dosage accordingly.

Side effects?

All medicine has side effects and there are some serious Methadone side effects, which may occur only for a short span of time, or even for prolonged periods. Moreover, the side effects vary from individual to individual, and so does the intensity of these side effects. Some of the side effects include dizziness, constipation, weight gain, problems while urinating, frequent mood swings, dry mouth, sweating, flushing, allergic reactions, lessened sexual activity and even a missed period. Moreover, there are significant Methadone side effects in infants, if the mother had been on prescription during the course of pregnancy, or while breastfeeding.

So, what’s the verdict?

It is important to use Methadone since it’s quite effective. However, you need to keep your doctor in the loop constantly, and let him or her know if the side effects occur for a prolonged period. Try not to overdose. If you accidently overdose, rush to the hospital immediately. You may experience blue skin or limp muscles as Methadone side effects as a result of overdose. Be safe!

Methadone Withdrawal

What is Methadone Withdrawal?

Different medicines are used to treat heroin addiction. One such medicine is Methadone, which was developed in Germany in 1937. However, since this medicine creates addiction almost equal to the amount of addiction created by heroin, it has the effects of street drugs, as well. Since it is a narcotic, opiode medication, if the dosage is stopped abruptly and without consultation with the doctor, it can result in Methadone side effects, which include Methadone Withdrawal.

Symptoms of Methadone Withdrawal

There are a few symptoms of Methadone withdrawal. These include agitation, anxiety, muscle ache, runny nose, and sweating, yawning and sometimes even insomnia (sleepless nights). Some people may also experience dilated pupils and extreme irritability. These are the early signs of Methadone withdrawal. Some of the long term Methadone side effects of withdrawal include abdominal cramping, goose bumps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, to mention a few common ones.

Don’t worry too much!

However, although there are different symptoms of Methadone Withdrawal, which may seem a bit dangerous, they are not life threatening at all. Most of them do not even persist for a prolonged time.

So, how do you know if you are experiencing Methadone Withdrawal? Well, there is quite a simple way, actually. Your doctor can conduct a physical examination to check if you are experiencing withdrawal. Sometimes, if the doctor suspects drug (heroin) usage, he or she can also conduct blood tests to know the amount of drugs in your system.

The Misery

However, we do have some bad news. People who use Methadone experience a vitamin and mineral deficiency, which can increase the ‘misery’ of the withdrawal. In addition, people who have been largely addicted to Methadone will experience severe withdrawal symptoms. Many doctors compare the pain of Methadone to that of flu, only ten times worse. This indeed is a misery.  Moreover, even your baby can experience Methadone withdrawal symptoms, if you have been on this drug during the course of your pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Therefore, the usage of this medicine needs careful consideration.

So, what to do?

Well, you should not become a cold turkey and stop using the medicine abruptly since it can lead to significant Methadone side effects, which may include Methadone withdrawal symptoms. It is no good damaging your health. You should take precautionary procedures while on this medicine and try not to get too much addicted to the drug. It may seem hard, but it is actually not. Additionally, eat healthy food so that you get your nutrients supply, so that the withdrawal symptoms will not hurt you too badly.  Choose a good doctor for your treatment, because the amount of dosage also determines these Methadone withdrawal symptoms. You can also join support groups after you have stopped using this medicine, to get you through the difficult period of getting over opiate and narcotic addiction. Although it is quite painful to withdraw from Methadone, it is not life threatening or impossible. If you can get over heroin addiction, you can get over these withdrawal symptoms, as well.

Methadone Side Effects in Infants

Methadone Side Effects: DO they occur in infants?

If you are wondering if infants may become a victim of Methadone side effects, then your worries are in the direct direction. At some times, infants may develop some short term and long term effects to Methadone. If you are wondering how this may occur, you can read the article to update your information, regarding this medicine, which treats opiate addiction. However, chances are if you are pregnant, or a nursing mother, and if on Methadone, your child may also suffer from Methadone side effects in infants.

So, how does this happen?

It’s quite simple really. Methadone itself has some addiction symptoms. However, it does not provide the same euphoria as heroine does, and this medicine is largely used to treat heroin addiction. All doctors proclaim that certain medicines should not be used during the course of the pregnancy since it may lead to adverse side effects in infants. During pregnancy, the women should always use this medicine with caution, and only if the benefits of using the medicine are greater than the potential harm to the baby. It should be made clear that Methadone side effects may include early withdrawal symptoms in babies, who have been born of mothers using this medicine.

So what effects?

It is important to know the Methadone side effects in infants, because they can shape the whole life of that baby. Therefore, people distinguish the effects broadly between short term and long term effects.

Short term effects

When infants are exposed to this medicine, more than 50% of the infants experience Methadone side effects as a result. The immediate side effects as reported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse include pinpoint pupil, nausea, vomiting, decreased heart rate, low blood pressure, raised pressure inside the skull and sometimes even dry mouth, nose or eyes. Therefore, these problems are potentially dangerous and need careful evaluation. If the risk to the mother is more than the effects on the infant, then the medicine should be taken with a correct dosage.

Long term effects

Many parents also wonder about the potential long term damage to an infant, whose mother during pregnancy and breastfeeding was on Methadone. According to drugs.com, many children who had been exposed to this medicine had smaller head circumference, decreased fetal growth, low birth body weight and height. However, doctors also state that these Methadone side effects in infants do not last for a prolonged period, so parents should not worry about this. However, many children even after going to adulthood may show persistent deficits in behavioral tests.

What’s the verdict?

Doctors and healthcare specialists the ones who can decide the right amount of dosage for the duration of pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is also the doctors’ estimation about the potential harm to the infant if he or she grows up with a mother who has disturbing opiate addiction. Methadone side effects to infants in certain cases need to be ignored, for the effects on the mother.

Methadone side effects and sweating

For many people who use Methadone as a narcotic pain reliever, you may experience many Methadone side effects. These side effects occur only in some people, and most of the time, they are quite minor. However, you always need to be aware of the side effects because they can adversely affect your health at times. The best way to go about is to consult your health care provider because he or she will give you the best advice. One of the common side effects of Methadone include excessive sweating, which may become quite bothersome, especially if it persists in the long-term. Hence, the article caters specifically to this side effect.

We need to make you aware of the fact increased sweating varies directly with the dosage of the Methadone. If you increase the dosage of your medicine, then there are high chances that your sweating will increase. A number of patients have reported sweating as one of the common methadone side effects. Individuals have also shared personal experience, in which they state that at times sweating increases to such an extent that the patients do not just have sweaty arm pits, but droplets of sweat on the face, arms and legs. Therefore, this becomes quite bothersome in the long run. Moreover, individuals also need to understand that some people might not sweat, while there may be others who will. The Methadone side effects will definitely vary from person to person. The sweating mostly occurs during the night. Even, if an individual is on an appropriate dosage (as directed by the doctor), he or she will experience excessive sweating. Of course, the sweating does vary on the amount of the dosage, but the dosage will be deemed as correct by your doctor.

Studies have come to an agreement that Methadone indeed causes sweating, so there is no doubt about that. You may feel that its quite foolish to mention this as one of the Methadone side effects. However, there are many people who would like to tell you the bothersome effects of excessive sweating. Bad odor and extreme disgust with oneself is quite common. In fact, one patient claims that the ‘thought of sweat makes him sweat!).

Luckily, we have some ways that you can counter such Methadone side effects. You can eat bland food and avoid spicy food, because it increases the chances of sweating, and in fact, increases the likelihood of bad odor sweating. Moreover, you should wear loose clothing, so there is a lesser chance of you sweating. Try not to stress too much because again you can sweat a lot, if you are stressed.

Come in complete control of your life. If you experience such Methadone side effects, do NOT stop taking the medicine. Methadone works like a miracle, so you need to keep taking it for your opiate addiction. However, if you still feel do not feel assured, you can always seek medical advice from your doctor.

Long term Methadone side effects

Methadone is a medication, prescribed for the treatment of opiate addiction. It has been in use for a number of decades and it is mostly safe for many people. Some people may experience some side effects, which usually go away with time. However, some people experience long term Methadone side effects. Nevertheless, this drug is prescribed by doctors over morphine and other drugs, because it effects tend to last longer. Even then, it is imperative to discuss Methadone side effects for long-term patients. A number of precautions are also necessary to avoid long term Methadone side effects.

A wide-know fact about Methadone is that it causes tooth decay. This is because Methadone causes dry mouth, since less saliva is produced. Saliva acts as anti-bacertial agent against the diseases of the mouth. However, for long term patients, Methadone side effects of tooth decay can easily be overcome. Patients should floss and brush their teeth every time they eat something. They should also reduce sugary substances from their diet, to prevent cavity formation. They should also go regularly to the dentist for teeth cleaning. Therefore, long term patients can easily avoid methadone side effects, by taking certain precautions.

The Drugs and Human Performance Fact Sheet clearly state that some patients may experience drowsiness and sedation. In such cases, driving becomes difficult for Methadone patients. Such Methadone side effects occur, especially for long term patients. These side effects require the attention of your doctor. The doctor may adjust the level of your dosage, if you are experiencing dizziness at frequent intervals.

Generally, some cardiovascular problems are created in long term patients, as a result of Methadone side effects. These include slow breathing, palpitations, and heart deterioration and valve disruptions. These can further create infection in the heart. Such Methadone side effects in long term patients can actually become fatal. Therefore, the doctor should prescribe this medication carefully, especially for elderly people, or in individuals who already have heart problems.

Many long term patients also experience gastrointestinal problems as a result of Methadone side effects. Some people experience chronic constipation, while others may suffer from pain while urination. If these Methadone side effects are not treated quickly, some long term patients may actually experience kidney and liver problems. The report published in the Journal of American Medication Association suggested that a laxative regime is required, if these problems are to be treated properly.

Some people may experience withdrawal symptoms. Such Methadone side effects occur more frequently in long term patients. These withdrawal issues include fatigue, sweating, shakiness, anxiety and nausea.

Some other patients also feel that methadone side effects can prove to be long term, if a woman is expecting a baby, while on Methadone. The children may get addicted to Methadone. However, not much research has been done to prove this long term effect. Therefore, you should have a talk with your doctor before planning to get pregnant.

Therefore, these long term methadone side effects are not to be treated lightly. Quick intervention of your doctor is required.

Methadone side effects – Problems with teeth

There are side effects relating to every drug and prescription. Methadone is a medication, which has been in use since decades and has been effective in the treatment of opiate addiction. There are other medications in the market, as well, but methadone has proved far more effective. However, a number of people claim that there are methadone side effects that may cause problem with your teeth. These claims are actually true and not just a myth. However, this side effect is caused quite indirectly. The article discusses the reasons behind methadone side effects that cause teeth problems. It also explains how an individual can counter methadone side effects of teeth problems by employing certain strategies.

Something needs to be reminded to the reader before we proceed. It is true that methadone side effects include teeth problems. However, other drugs for the treatment of opiate addiction cause far more problems.

Tooth decay is caused because of Methadone because of a simple reason. All drugs cause a reduction in the saliva present in the mouth. This saliva actually acts as anti-bacteria; therefore, when this reduces, the chances of tooth decay increase. The chances of dental bacteria in your mouth exacerbate, which lead to teeth damage, one of methadone side effects. Saliva further disintegrates sugary foods from the mouth. Therefore, when the saliva decreases, the probability of tooth decay increases.

However, just because teeth problems form part of methadone side effects does not mean you should stop using this drug. No one is denying the fact that it leads to tooth decay, however you can employ a number of precautions to prevent occurrence of these side effects.

To prevent any teeth problems that occur because of methadone side effects, you can take certain preventative steps. After all, better safe than sorry. You can regularly rinse your mouth, brush and floss your teeth after eating something. You can also constantly chew sugar free gum because it increases the saliva in your mouth. Chewing gum reduces the methadone side effects that result in teeth problems. You can also use mouthwash to completely cleanse your mouth. Additionally, you can go to your dentist regularly for cleanings, so there are fewer chances of tooth decay. You should take any counter remedies that cleanse your mouth and prevent any methadone side effects that may cause damage to your teeth.

However, there is no sense to stop using this medicine just because it creates tooth decay. Another option for the treatment of opiate addiction includes Suboxone that does not create dental problems. However, this drug does not work for everyone, and therefore you should talk to your doctor whether your body will respond well to this drug. Fear of teeth problems occurring as a result of methadone side effects is not a substantial reason to stop using this drug. After all, heroine causes tooth decay, as well. Methadone side effects that result in teeth problems can easily be overcome by taking few things to consideration.

Methadone Side Effects in Men and Women

Methadone is a medication that is used for the effective treatment of narcotic addiction. Many people who take this drug have made full recoveries. However, there are some methadone side effects in men and women that need proper discussion. One thing has to be cleared out. Methadone side effects are not too different in men and women. Rather, these side effects depend upon the individual, not on sex. The article discusses some methadone side effects in men and women.

            An important word of caution is necessary before we proceed. It is important to use this medication with care and according to the instructions of the doctor. If the dosage is too high, it can lead to profound methadone side effects in men and women. You should always have a talk with your clinic before increasing the dosage, or stop using the medication.

            Methadone side effects, relating to respiratory and heart problems occur in men and women. If you are feeling short of breath, slow heart rate, palpitations, or slow breathing, then you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. The FDA has warned individuals against such methadone side effects, commonly occurring in men and women, both.

            In both men and women, methadone side effects such as dizziness and weakness are commonly seen. People may become unstable while talking. They may also lose their sense of being alert at all times, because methadone impacts the senses.

            Some other methadone side effects, commonly occurring in men and women include gastrointestinal problems. These include upset stomach, abdominal cramps, pain and bloating. You may experience nausea, diarrhea, vomiting or stomachache. There are certain patients who see abnormal weight fluctuations, dry mouth and heightened appetite. These methadone side effects are not different in men and women, but rather the severity depends largely upon the individual. Sex has not much to do with the factor, but age and the health of a specific patient also matters.

            Methadone side effects also include sexual dysfunction in men and women. In men, this sexual dysfunction is related to delayed ejaculation. While on Methadone treatment, around 60 percent of men experienced this side effect, according to a study conducted in 1972. However, women, after stopping heroin usage, actually saw an increase in sexual activity. Nevertheless, there is no denying the fact that methadone side effects consist of sexual problems in men and women. Women experience sexual dysfunction, with less vaginal lubrication. In men and women both, Methadone side effects included lessened emotional and physiological arousal, less orgasmic satisfaction, loss of interest in sexual activity among others. According to a 2007 report, Methadone side effects relating to sexual dysfunction was seen in around 41 men and women.

            Therefore, there is no doubting the fact that methadone side effects create life changes in men and women. However, contrary to popular belief, these side effects are not different for men and women, but largely the same. It rather depends more on the individual and their health conditions, than the sex.

Methadone and Pregnancy

While on Methadone, a number of pregnant women, fret about their unborn children. They feel that there might be some methadone side effects during pregnancy. However, they do not to worry, for women have been treated with methadone since decades and, as such have shown no side effects. Some people claim that there are certain methadone side effects during pregnancy, which may result in your child being born with an abnormally small head, low weight at the time of the birth and sometimes withdrawal systems, as well.  However, there is not substantial evidence to prove that.

A word of caution is necessary before we proceed. It is not necessary that during pregnancy, if any of the things occur, it be only due to methadone side effects. There are certain other reasons such as improper nutrition, smoking, drug usage and improper care that can also result in birth defects.

As mentioned above, there is no proof of methadone side effects during pregnancy. Contrary to popular belief, a high level of dosage does not increase the chances of withdrawal symptoms. However, your healthcare provider will need to adjust the dosage as required by the body. Many women also claim that they want to stop using the medication to prevent any possibility of methadone side effects, during pregnancy. However, clinics do not agree with this, and they instruct the women to remain on the medication during the course of pregnancy. Never dry to detox yourself. It will adversely affect your body’s functions, as well as put your recuperation at stake. It is important for you to have a talk with other women who have gone through the experience. They can assure you that you and your baby will not be adversely affected from methadone side effects during the course of your pregnancy, as well as after the birth of the child

Another myth relating to methadone side effects, during pregnancy is that the baby can eventually become an addict, just because the mom is on the drug. However, the myth is actually complicated to resolve. Not many studies have been conducted about the long-term effects. Additionally, many other factors influence the drug use in a child. These may consist of genetic issues.

Even though, there are no methadone side effects during your pregnancy, never act careless with your health. Talk to your clinic regularly, at least twice a month. The clinic will assist you and answer all questions, muddled in your head. It is not good to stress over nothing. It does not prove well for the baby. In addition, to prevent any reactions to any drug that may cause Methadone side effects during pregnancy, do not take any medications without the consent of your doctor.

Fretting is not good for the baby. Relax and do not stress. There is not enough evidence to support the fact that methadone side effects occur during or after pregnancy. However, never be careless. Talk to your doctor immediately if you feel something is amiss in your body.