Long term effects of methadone on the body (INFOGRAPHIC)

How can long-term and chronic methadone abuse harm your physical health? We show all negative effects of methadone on the body in this infographic.

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minute read

How does methadone work?

Methadone, an opiate analgesic medication, works in the brain to change how the body feels and reacts to pain. Because of this property, methadone is usually prescribed to people who suffer from chronic and strong pain. Its other use may be even more well know: for the treatment of opioid addicted individuals during withdrawal or as a maintenance therapy.

Consequences of methadone abuse on the body

Many patient’s lives have been changed or became functional again thanks to methadone therapy. The efficacy of methadone has been well documented. However, because it is an opiate, many people abuse it to get high and feel relaxed. The risks and dangers are increased when methadone is taken illegally or purchased on the streets. Here are the possible side-effects from taking methadone without being prescribed, more than prescribed or more frequently:

Long term effects of methadone on the body (INFOGRAPHIC)

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  • coma (in case of overdose)
  • constipation
  • death (in case of overdose)
  • difficulty urinating
  • headaches
  • low blood pressure
  • nausea
  • respiratory depression
  • sexual dysfunction
  • skin problems
  • sleep irregularities
  • sweating
  • vomiting
  • weight gain

Are methadone’s effects on the body reversible?

As mentioned above, street methadone is very dangerous. Firstly because it can be a concentrated amount that is more potent that what is expected, and not only do high doses bring adverse effects, but they can cause permanent damages, coma or death as a result of extreme respiratory depression.

Moreover, if high doses of methadone are used for a prolonged period of time and are taken chronically, the damage caused to the kidneys, heart, brain, and lungs can be permanent.

Adverse effect of methadone on the body questions

If you or someone you love are abusing methadone, suddenly stopping will take you through withdrawal. You need to keep in mind that a thorough detox is important before a person can start a drug rehab program. If you have any questions about the long term effects of methadone addiction treatment, feel free to post them in the comments section below and we’ll gladly reply to all legitimate inquiries.

About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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