Table of Contents
What is methadone and how does it work?
Methadone is a long-acting opioid that activates the opioid receptors in the brain to prevent withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings in people addicted to opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers. It is used as part of medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction.
How is methadone administered?
Methadone is typically administered orally as a liquid. It is usually taken once daily under the supervision of a doctor or pharmacist to ensure proper dosing and prevent misuse or diversion of the medication.
What are the side effects of methadone?
Common side effects of methadone include constipation, nausea, sweating, dry mouth, drowsiness, and sexual dysfunction. More serious side effects may include slowed or irregular breathing, low blood pressure, and QT interval prolongation.
How long does methadone treatment last?
Methadone maintenance treatment is considered a long-term treatment for opioid addiction. Treatment often lasts for years, as methadone helps stabilize brain chemistry and prevent relapse. The length of treatment depends on the individual patient’s needs.
Why is supervised administration important?
Supervised administration is important to ensure patients are taking methadone as prescribed and not misusing it. It also reduces the risks of adverse effects, diversion, or accidental overdose. The structure helps patients establish positive routines and accountability in their treatment.
How can Birdsfoot Lane Pharmacy help you?
This Methadone service in Luton will require the Pharmacist to supervise the consumption of prescribed medicines at the point of dispensing in the Pharmacy, ensuring that the dose has been administered to the patient.
Birdsfoot Lane Pharmacy will offer a user friendly, non-judgmental, client centred and confidential service. The Pharmacy will provide support and advice to the patient, including referral to primary care or specialist centres where appropriate.
Examples of medicines which may have consumption supervised include methadone and other medicines used for the management of opiate dependence, and medicines used for the management of mental health conditions or tuberculosis.
Please remember that you may be required to provide photo ID when collecting your mediation at Birdsfoot Lane Pharmacy. This is to ensure that the duty Pharmacist can supply the correct medication in accordance with the regulations. Please contact us if you would like any further advice or information.