Getting Off Methadone - What you Need to Know

Getting off Methadone can be difficult, and you should not try to withdraw on your own. Having a doctor to oversee the process can help you avoid the worst symptoms and increase your chances of recovery. Doctors can also prescribe drugs to ease the symptoms and reduce the pain of withdrawal. They can also help you reduce the amount of time it takes for your body to stop responding to methadone. You may also be prescribed sleeping pills to make the withdrawal process more manageable.

Inpatient treatment

The duration of a methadone inpatient treatment depends on the severity of the addiction and the patient's situation. An inpatient treatment program may last anywhere from 30 days to six months, and the longer the stay, the better the chances are that the patient will recover. However, an inpatient treatment program is often more beneficial to the patient if they have a history of unstable living circumstances. Listed below are the main differences between inpatient and outpatient methadone treatment programs.

Tapering off methadone

When you are on methadone, tapering off from a high dose is a major concern. In addition to dealing with withdrawal symptoms, you should avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants. These substances can compound the depressant effect of methadone and lead to an unintentional overdose. To help prevent this, make sure that you get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water and eat a healthy diet. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol is also important.

Symptoms of withdrawal from methadone

The withdrawal from methadone is usually a three to six week process, but for people who have a severe addiction, it may take longer. Because methadone stays in the body for such a long period of time, it can be difficult for some people to detox completely. Peak withdrawal symptoms, which last around seven days, include flu-like symptoms, anxiety, and muscle aches. Withdrawal symptoms will eventually subside and the individual can feel more normal after these initial episodes of withdrawal.

Sleeping pills

Getting off Methadone and sleeping pills can be difficult for a recovering addict. These drugs alter the brain's chemistry and processes, resulting in physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms. The resulting sleeplessness and impaired mental function can lead to decreased treatment adherence, a slower heartbeat, and an increased risk of motor vehicle accidents. It is important to note that half of all methadone patients report that they take at least one illicit drug in addition to approved medication.

Sedatives

If you are thinking about deciding to get off Methadone and sedatives, it's important to know what to expect from the process. Withdrawal symptoms are typically worst in the first week after stopping methadone use, but some can last much longer. These include low energy, anxiety, depression, and trouble sleeping. While it can be uncomfortable to stop taking opiates, you must remember that withdrawal can also increase your risk of developing opioid addiction. If you're wondering what to expect from the withdrawal symptoms, consider pursuing medical treatment for opioid addiction.

Getting support from medical professionals

If you're considering tapering off Methadone, you need to be aware of the risks involved. The first step is to learn more about the drug's withdrawal symptoms. This process can be dangerous and complicated if you have a medical condition or are already addicted to methadone. If you're not sure how to taper off Methadone, consult a therapist at Neworld Methadone Detox. They'll likely prescribe additional medications to reduce your risk. Getting support from medical professionals can also help you find distractions and a temptation-free environment.