Micromedex Detailed Drug Information for the Consumer [Internet]. Truven Health Analytics; 1974-2016.

Methadone (Oral route)

METH-a-done

Brand Name(s)

In the US: Diskets Dispersible, Dolophine, Methadone HCl Intensol, Methadose

Dosage forms

Tablet for Suspension Liquid Solution Tablet

Classifications

Therapeutic: Analgesic; Chemical: Opioid

Warning

Oral route (Tablet;Solution)

Use of methadone hydrochloride increases the risk of opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse, which may cause overdose and death. Assess each patient’s risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing methadone and monitor for signs of these behaviors during treatment. Respiratory depression, including fatal cases, have been reported, particularly during therapy initiation and dose increases. QT interval prolongation and serious arrhythmias (eg, torsades de pointes) have occurred during treatment, generally with large, multiple daily doses, but also with commonly used doses for maintenance treatment of opioid addiction. Monitor for respiratory depression and QT prolongation during initiation of therapy and dose titration. Accidental ingestion, especially in children, can result in a fatal overdose . Prolonged use during pregnancy may result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if unnoticed and untreated. If prolonged use is required in a pregnant woman, advise mother of fetal risk and ensure treatment availability. Administer methadone according to treatment standards for detoxification and maintenance of opioid dependence .

Oral route (Tablet for Suspension)

Deaths due to too-rapid titration, drug interactions, or cardiac and respiratory side effects have occurred with methadone use for opioid dependence. Respiratory depression is the main hazard associated with methadone administration. QT interval prolongation and serious arrhythmias (torsades de pointes) have been observed during treatment with methadone. Only approved hospitals and pharmacies can dispense oral methadone for the treatment of narcotic addiction .

Uses of This Medicine

Methadone is used to treat moderate to severe pain when around-the-clock pain relief is needed for a long period of time. This medicine should not be used to treat pain that you only have once in a while or “as needed”. Methadone is also used together with medical supervision and counseling to treat opioid addiction (eg, heroin or other morphine-like drugs).

Methadone is an opioid (narcotic) analgesic (pain medicine). It acts on the nervous system to relieve pain.

This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

Before Using This Medicine

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered: