Methadone Oral
Generic Name: METHADONE CONCENTRATE - ORALPronounced: (METH-uh-doan)
Methadone Oral Uses
This medication is used to treat addiction to narcotic drugs (such as heroin) as part of an approved treatment program. Methadone is a narcotic (opiate-type) medication. It helps prevent withdrawal symptoms caused by stopping other opiate-type narcotics.
How To Use Methadone Oral
Read the Patient Information Leaflet that may be provided by your pharmacist before you start using methadone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor. If you have nausea, it may help to take this drug with food. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to decrease nausea (such as taking antihistamines, lying down for 1 to 2 hours with as little head movement as possible).
Measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Before taking the dose, mix the medication into at least 1 ounce (30 milliliters) of water or another liquid as directed. Drink all of the mixture immediately. Do not prepare a supply in advance. If you have any questions on how to take this medication correctly, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not inject this medication.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
If you are taking this medication for pain, remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has worsened, the medication may not work as well.
This medication may cause dependence, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or if it has been used in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal reactions (such as restlessness, watery eyes, widened pupils, sweating, runny nose) may occur if you suddenly stop this drug. These reactions may sometimes occur 3 to 4 days after your last dose. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may direct you to reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.
When this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well. Your doctor may need to increase your dose or change your medication. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.
Rarely, abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction) is possible with this medication. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or take it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed.
Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
