Isolated man wth cap going through methadone withdrawal.Methadone can be extremely addictive. You may have used it to withdraw from opiates or heroin and then find you have this secondary addiction. When it has been used in high doses, patients may experience severe methadone withdrawal symptoms. To alleviate the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms and get treatment, patients should seek out a rehabilitation center.

What Is Methadone Withdrawal?

While methadone is commonly used to treat an opiate addiction, methadone is also addictive. Over time, an individual may begin to develop a dependence on methadone. If they suddenly stop using the drug, they may go through methadone withdrawal symptoms. Their body has basically learned how to function with methadone, so it experiences uncomfortable symptoms when methadone is removed.

Each person experiences withdrawal symptoms in a different way. Since some symptoms can be severe, it is important to only go through withdrawal symptoms at a professional treatment center. During withdrawal, individuals may experience symptoms like:

  • Irritability
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Hallucinations
  • Sweating
  • Paranoia
  • Insomnia
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Diarrhea
  • Muscle pain
  • Stomach cramps

Someone who has a severe physical addiction to methadone is likely to have more intense withdrawal symptoms. In addition, people who are addicted to multiple substances may have a longer withdrawal process.

Can Someone Quit Methadone Cold Turkey?

It is never advisable to quit using methadone cold turkey. Suddenly discontinuing this drug use can cause severe, uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. It is important to seek medical supervision before quitting. A doctor or a rehab center can supervise methadone withdrawal to make sure that it is safe and effective.

How Long Will Withdrawal Symptoms Last?

Methadone withdrawal will generally start within the first day after the individual’s last dose. In some cases, it may take up to several days for withdrawal symptoms to begin. For most people, the first 7 to 10 days of withdrawal symptoms are the worst. Individuals may experience flu-like symptoms and psychological side effects.

After the initial week, many of the more distressing psychological and physical symptoms will subside. While the first 1 to 10 days are difficult, methadone cravings and physical symptoms will generally fade away from days 11 to 21. After 22 days of treatment, any symptoms that remain will tend to be fairly mild. The most common symptom at this point is depression.

What Treatment Options Are Available?

Once someone realizes that they need help, there are many treatment options available. A drug treatment facility can provide an inpatient program for drug and alcohol addiction, focusing on methadone withdrawal. During inpatient treatment, the patient is placed under continuous medical supervision. They are unable to relapse as they learn more about their addiction and finish going through withdrawal symptoms.

With outpatient treatment, patients arrive for a set number of hours every one to three days. They receive addiction education, attend group support sessions and get medical care. Depending on the patient’s history of addiction and unique needs, they may be offered an inpatient or an outpatient rehab. The important thing is to get professional support and care during the rehab process.

What to Expect

At a rehab center, patients can get help detoxing in a safe, supportive environment. They can receive medical treatments to combat the side effects of long-term methadone use. At the same time, the rehab center will provide education and therapy options throughout the process. Patients are given individualized treatment programs that are perfectly tailored to their unique medical history, co-occurring disorders and addiction.

Methadone withdrawal symptoms can be healthily and safely managed. With professional support, clients can begin the detox process as they start their long-term sobriety. The first step is realizing that you or a loved one needs help. Once you’ve decided to get clean, contact Beaches Recovery at 8666050532 to get help starting your journey.