Information about Methadone

Generic Name : Methadone
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Methadone are provided here.

Pronunciation : meth’- a- done

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Methadone, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y45 Therapeutic Classification : Analgesics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Methadone

International :

Dolophine, Methadose

Why is Methadone Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a narcotic analgesic, prescribed for moderate to severe pain. It works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain.

When should Methadone not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with respiratory depression and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Methadone?

PO- The starting dose is 2.5 mg to 10 mg every 8 to 12 hours.

How should Methadone be taken?

It comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Methadone?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with lung or breathing problems, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), stomach problems, stomach pain, constipation, liver, kidney, thyroid or Addison disease, urinary obstruction, low blood volume, tumors, seizures, head injury, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or lightheadedness, do not drive a car or operate machinery and get up slowly from bed while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• It may cause constipation; consult with your doctor to avoid this problem.

• Monitor patient’s condition during treatment initiation, during conversion from one opioid to another, and during dose titration.

What are the side effects of Methadone?

Most Common - Lightheadedness, dizziness, sedation, nausea, vomiting and sweating.
Body as a Whole - Weakness, swelling and headache.
Heart - Abnormal heart rhythm, slow/fast heart rate, ECG abnormalities, flushing, heart failure, low blood pressure, palpitations, vein inflammation, QT interval prolongation and fainting.
Gastrointestinal - Abdominal pain, loss of appetite, constipation, dry mouth and tongue inflammation.
Metabolic - Weight gain.
Central Nervous System - Agitation, confusion, disorientation, emotion, anxiety, sleeplessness and seizures.
Respiratory - Lung swelling and respiratory depression.
Skin - Itching, hives and rash.
Eye and ENT - Hallucinations and visual disturbances.
Genitourinary - Absence of menstrual periods, reduced sexual activity and/or impotence and urinary retention or hesitancy.