Question 5: What is methadone?

Answer: Methadone is a rigorously well-tested medication that has been safely used to treat opioid addiction in the United States for more than 40 years. Methadone

• Blocks the craving for opioids that is a major factor in relapse.
• Suppresses the symptoms of opioid withdrawal for 24 to 36 hours.
• Blocks the effects of administered heroin.
• Does not cause euphoria, intoxication, or sedation.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV, STD and TB Prevention. Methadone Maintenance Treatment. Atlanta, GA: CDC, 2000. Available online at: www.cdc.gov/idu/facts/MethadoneFin.pdf. [Accessed March 23, 2006.]

Joseph H, Stancliff S, Langrod J. Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT): a review of historical and clinical issues. The Mount Sinai Journal of Medicine 2000;67(5 & 6):347-64. Available online at:http://mountsinai.site-ym.com/?page=Journal_of_Medicine/67/6756.shtml. [Accessed March 23, 2006.]

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Medication Assisted Treatment. Rockville, MD: SAMHSA, 2005. Available online at: www.dpt.samhsa.gov/404error.aspx?404;http://www.dpt.samhsa.gov /treatment.htm. [Accessed March 27, 2006.