Detox Methadone Withdrawal

Anyone addicted to methadone needs to be aware of a few things related to detox methadone withdrawal. These are the withdrawal symptoms, complications of withdrawal and treatment options.

The detox methadone withdrawal symptoms mimic the flu with the associated diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, runny nose, sweating and muscle aches. Additional symptoms include insomnia, anxiety and agitation.

Aspiration can be a complication for a person going through detox methadone withdrawal. That is when vomit is inhaled into the lungs. The person may also experience dehydration from the diarrhea and vomiting. People who go through detox and then return to methadone use are at risk for overdosing because of their reduced tolerance.

There are various treatment options available to lessen the pains of withdrawal. Medications can be used that reduce the symptoms of withdrawal. Another option is long-term maintenance. This is a weaning process where the methadone dosage is gradually reduced. This procedure lessens the withdrawal symptoms. Some programs include a more controversial method of detox methadone withdrawal. This method involves anesthetizing the person and injecting opiate-blocking drugs. Many specialists deem this procedure a risky option.

Detox methadone withdrawal is a challenge to any individual who wishes to progress to the stage of recovery where there is no further dependence on any medication to live a normal daily life. While there are many individuals who are content to continue with a medically proscribed course of methadone over the life of their recovery, others are more eager to become completely medication free. But there is always the question of how detox methadone withdrawal will impact their life while they are going through the process.

Methadone is an opioid (just like the drug the individual is using to detox from), and for that reason, side effects can be dangerous and highly unpleasant if the medication is stopped all at once. It is important to take the guidance of a licensed addiction treatment professional to avoid common symptoms like agitation, anxiety, muscle aches, weepiness, inability to sleep, cold-like symptoms, cramping and diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms, which are often quite severe if detox methadone withdrawal is entered into too rapidly or suddenly, can disrupt home as well as work life, impact social relationships, and damage health.

Sources: National Library of Medicine, National Institute on Drug Abuse