The Risks of Methadone Rehab
Although the process is still considered one of the most widely accepted forms of treatment for heroin addiction or other opiate-based drug, there are still detractors who name the risks of methadone rehab as reason to consider other treatment options.
The following are some of the risks of methadone rehab, as well as facts that any individual should consider before enrolling at a methadone clinic.
What Is Methadone Rehab?
During traditional forms of methadone rehab, an individual will visit a methadone clinic on a regular basis in order to receive liquid doses of the drug. Methadone is a synthetic drug that holds many of the opiate properties found in heroin and other opiates. While taking methadone, the individual can experience periods of time where they are not taking heroin (or other drugs) but also not experiencing withdrawal symptoms. As time goes by, and the levels of methadone dosage are reduced, the individual will be slowly weaned from the drug.
How Is the Drug Taken During Methadone Rehab?
When the individual arrives at a methadone clinic, they will be given the drug in liquid or pill form (although some will receive their methadone via injection). Because the drug is administered by a medical professional, there is a lower risk for overdose, and questions regarding the purity or contamination of the drug are addressed because the doses come directly from the pharmaceutical company.
The Risks Of Methadone Rehab
- Adverse reactions to the methadone. Some people experience side effects when they take methadone. These side effects can range from mild to severe and may include: nausea, vomiting, vertigo, dizziness and other symptoms.
- Developing a dependence to methadone. Like any opiate-based drug, there is a risk of developing a dependence on methadone during drug treatment. A percentage of those who take methadone do experience physical and psychological addiction and can even develop a tolerance to the drug.
- Withdrawal symptoms. When some individuals stop taking methadone, they can develop withdrawal symptoms similar to those found with heroin addicts who stop taking the drug. These can include anxiety, sleeplessness, chills, fever, depression and other symptoms.
- Overdose. In an accredited methadone clinic, where experienced medical professionals are on hand to provide the proper dosage levels of the drug, overdose is rare. However, there are reported cases of individuals “unable to handle” their treatment while in methadone rehab, and overdosing as a result.
- Complications from other drug use. If an individual is using other drugs during their methadone treatment, they may be at risk for complications from the mixture. Like any combination of powerful drugs, methadone mixed with crystal meth, cocaine or other substances can make a person very sick, and even put them at a high risk for overdose.
Michael’s House is a residential drug rehab facility located in Palm Springs, California. The addiction recovery specialists at Michael’s House work very closely with all the patients to provide individualized care and treatment plans that will help you or your loved one be successful on the road to recovery. Contact Michael’s House today at 1-877-345-8494 for more information.
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