Understanding How Methadone Treatment Helps with Substance Use Disorder

Modern recovery care often includes medication alongside counseling and social support. Going through recovery for substance use disorder is hard. Withdrawal can be extremely painful and get in the way of daily life. Methadone is one type of medication that can help those going through withdrawal find relief and work toward recovery. Read on to learn about how it works.

What is Methadone?

Methadone is a long-acting medication that is commonly used to treat substance use disorder. When taken as prescribed, it provides relief from withdrawal symptoms, such as pain, associated with opiate withdrawal. The medication changes how the brain and nervous system respond to pain and blocks the euphoric effects of opiate drugs. Due to how it works, it can be addictive, so it’s important that patients use it under supervision and at the proper dosage.

How Methadone Treatment Works

The first step to receiving methadone treatment is an assessment and creation of a plan based on medical history, substance use history, goals and co-occurring conditions. Providers find the right dose over time based on the patient’s feedback, and often the dosage is readjusted throughout the course of treatment. Consistent dosing supports daily functioning and recovery goals, so it’s important that it’s done under supervision. Treatments take place over 12 months or more, with monitoring taking place throughout the process.

Why it Helps

Methadone reduces opioid cravings and withdrawal, helping people stay in treatment. It also lowers the risk of overdose and opioid-related harms when taken as prescribed. When taking methadone, as opposed to opiates, patients often find stability in work life and home life without suffering through withdrawal. It helps create space for counseling and behavior change by quieting constant withdrawal and craving cycles associated with substance use disorder.