Methadone Detox Center Near Miami, Florida
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Methadone Addiction, Withdrawal, and Detox
Methadone belongs to the opioid class of medications but is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved medication to treat opioid use disorder (OUD).1 As a long-acting full opioid agonist, methadone acts on opioid receptors in the brain to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for other opioids (e.g., heroin, oxycodone, fentanyl, morphine, etc.).1,2
Although methadone binds to and activates opioid receptors, it is more long acting and has effects that are felt more slowly over time than many other opioids. For those dependent on opioids, methadone treatment doses don’t produce euphoria.2 Additionally, if other opioids are taken with it, methadone can blunt their effects, thus discouraging misuse.1
When prescribed to treat OUD, methadone is often given for a minimum of 12 months, but this treatment could last longer depending on a person’s needs. Taken as prescribed, methadone is safe and can help someone with OUD regain their life after addiction.1
That said, as a Schedule II controlled substance, methadone prescriptions are highly controlled, and the medication is dispensed only through opioid treatment programs (OTPs) certified by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.1
Additionally, as an opioid, methadone can interact with other drugs and alcohol, potentially leading to profound sedation and respiratory depression, and as such, patients must adhere to strict distribution and administration rules. Methadone side effects—e.g., restlessness, slowed breathing, itchy skin, nausea/vomiting, heavy sweating, constipation, and sexual problems—can also be troubling for some individuals.1
After prolonged use, withdrawal symptoms are likely if a person stops taking methadone, quickly reduces the dose, or takes a partial agonist (such as buprenorphine) while taking methadone.3 Symptoms of methadone withdrawal can include:3
- Increased irritability or anxiety.
- Sleep difficulties.
- Restlessness.
- Aching back, muscle, or joint pain.
- Increase in blood pressure, heart rate, or breathing rate.
- Loss of appetite.
- Stomach cramps.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Tearing of the eyes.
- Runny nose.
- Yawning.
- Sweating.
- Chills.
Despite the fact that methadone is an effective treatment option for many people and it has been used successfully for more than 40 years, some people may want to stop taking methadone for various reasons—including use restrictions, side effects, and more.2 Help in the form of methadone detox and a methadone-free treatment program is a viable option for these individuals.
Our Methadone Detox Center Near Miami, Florida
Drug detox and treatment centers such as Recovery First Treatment Center, an accredited, evidence-based rehab near Miami, can provide professional help during methadone withdrawal. Recovery First’s methadone detox program is a special track that uses substances other than methadone to assist with withdrawal symptoms as needed. Under professional guidance and supervision, patients can more easily withdraw from methadone while remaining as safe and as comfortable as possible.
So what does methadone detox and treatment look like at Recovery First Treatment Center?
Staff first conducts a thorough evaluation of the patient’s physical and mental health as well as their current life situation. Experienced, accredited, and compassionate staff members then tailor treatment plans to each person’s needs.
The first step is likely a methadone-free detox that employs other comfort and prescription medications as needed paired with psychological support. Alongside detox, treatment includes specialized group sessions dealing with the science of addiction and teaching skills to cope with the withdrawal process.
Going through methadone detox at Recovery First can help patients to cease methadone use smoothly and efficiently, allowing them to quickly engage in the recovery process—including both inpatient and outpatient treatment—likely with less discomfort and a clearer mind.
How Long Does Methadone Detox Last, and What Medications Are Used in Methadone Detox?
No two people are identical, so the time required to detox from methadone varies dramatically. However, factors that can affect detox duration include the amount of methadone that was previously being taken and the duration of use.4
During detox from methadone, other medications can be used to minimize symptoms and keep people comfortable. Buprenorphine (a partial opioid agonist) may be used in some cases.4 At Recovery First Treatment Center, professionals often opt for the use of a symptom-relief medication known as Lucemyra (lofexidine).
Methadone Detox Next Steps
If you or a loved one is looking for a methadone detox and treatment facility near Miami, FL, Recovery First Treatment Center may be a viable option. Our admissions navigators at are available 24/7 for a free and confidential conversation to discuss your needs and available treatment options. They can even verify your insurance—or you can verify your benefits online—and discuss alternative payment options. Contact us today to take your first step toward lasting recovery.
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