Methadone clinics are available both as private and public institutions. Their aim is the same, which is to reduce or eliminate the use of heroin, oxycodone, and the like by substituting methadone. Dosages are overseen and dispensed in conjunction with intensive counseling, which is intended to help the addict deal with life's challenges without feeling the need to self-medicate. Clinics typically are staffed by specialists in addiction, including physicians, drug counselors, and nurses.
Find methadone clinic by state
What is methadone?
Methadone itself is a schedule II opioid analgesic that is used to relieve chronic pain, as well as to reduce drug cravings in those addicted to substances such as heroin, oxycodone, OxyContin, and other prescription drugs. It has been used to combat drug addiction for more than four decades. In that time, studies have shown methadone to be safe to use for years, if needed, without presenting any serious side effects.
How does methadone work?
The drug works by blocking the parts of the brain that are most affected by opioids. This allows the patient to come off other drugs, without experiencing painful withdrawals or the severe cravings that can occur without the intervention of methadone. At the same time, daily doses taken as prescribed and dispensed at a clinic will not cause the euphoric effects other opioids are known for producing, allowing the patient to function in day-to-day life.
Pros & cons of methadone treatment
Some critics claim that prescribing methadone for addiction is merely substituting one substance for another in a treatment that keeps drug abusers dependent. However, methadone works entirely differently on the body. It is perfectly legal to drive a car while on the substance, for example, unlike with other opioids.
Methadone maintenance treatment through an approved clinic, while considered the most effective method to wean addicts off of other drugs, still has its pros and cons. It still is possible for patients to continue to abuse drugs while on methadone, for example. Because of daily dosing that requires participants to go to a clinic, business or pleasure travel can be disrupted. Some also can find it hard to simply make the daily trip due to of a lack of transportation. Those looking for a job can run into problems, as the drug can be detected in pre-employment urine testing.
However, the clinic treatment standard has helped patients meet others who are in the same predicament, making them feel less ostracized. Daily trips to the clinic also provide structure. After 40 years of use as a treatment, methadone has been proven safe, even when doses must be increased for patients who develop a tolerance.
Recently added methadone clinics
References
1 - Methadone : Wikipedia
2 - Methadone : Medlineplus
3 - Buprenorphine