Withdrawal from methadone use is accompanied by withdrawal symptoms. This is due to the physical addiction that has made the body dependent on the drug. The symptoms are accompanied by strong cravings, even when the patient is aware of negative effects.
Methadone addiction withdrawal may require the addict to go through a treatment program, as it is among the prescription drugs with addictive properties. Withdrawal and recovery from addiction is more successful among those who attend counseling at rehab centers. Methadone, which is used during detoxification for reliance on other drugs, makes those who become dependent encounter withdrawal symptoms every time they stop taking the drug.
Such people might need to go through another detox to get rid of their dependence on methadone. Drug addicts find it hard to stop their reliance on the drug, as they cannot cope with the withdrawal symptoms that are likely to be severe. When withdrawing from methadone consumption, these symptoms are likely to appear:
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It might be important for an addict to start reducing the amount of methadone consumed as opposed to sudden withdrawal, which will make the person feel miserable. It is advisable for those who have used methadone for a long time to embark on a gradual downwards dose titration, as this will prevent unpleasant effects. This extends to those who are taking the drug on prescription. It is important to visit a doctor after forgetting or failing to take the prescribed dose for a period that exceeds three consecutive days.
An addict may relapse and start taking methadone again in order to overcome withdrawal symptoms. Methadone has opiate-like qualities and this makes methadone addiction withdrawal a hard process. Methadone, unlike heroin or OxyContin, has more severe withdrawal symptoms. They do not occur within a short a time, like other opiates, but they last for a long time. The symptoms might take weeks or months to disappear.
After using methadone for a long time, individuals who stop taking the drug will start experiencing the effects of withdrawal after 48 hours since the consumption of the last dose. One of the methadone addiction withdrawal effects is a strong craving for the drug. This is accompanied by muscle aches, cramps, chills, and sweating. The initial effects might not be severe, but the addict will experience them for a long time.
When a patient is going through methadone withdrawal, it is important to consume a healthy diet. Proteins are essential, as they make the body build opiate receptors and neurotransmitters. It also helps in the repair of damaged nerves. Protein can be obtained from eggs, meat, and fish. It is vital to avoid sugar and processed foods, caffeinated drinks, and stimulants, like coffee.
