You should only use methadone according to your doctor’s prescription. If you have not been directed to change the drug’s usage, increase the frequency of use, or take in the drug for a prolonged time, then you should never attempt to do so. In particular, elderly patients can be a lot more sensitive to this pain medication and its effects.

  • It is crucial for you to be checked by your doctor for progress when on this medication. This lets your doctor see if the prescription drug is working effectively in your case and if you should go on with taking it regularly.
  • Methadone can strengthen the effects of CNS depressants and even alcohol., Examples of CNS depressants include antihistamines or anti-allergies, sleeping medicine, sedatives, tranquilizers, and narcotics. Anesthetics, a medicine used for barbiturates, seizures, muscle relaxants and a few dental anesthetics are also examples of CNS depressants. S
  • The medication will make you feel less alert and drowsy.
  • Consult with your doctor before you decide to take it with other medications.

Methadone is habit-forming and can cause mental and physical dependence.

If you are in doubt of the drug’s efficacy in your case, never attempt to take in more of the drug than what is prescribed in your prescription. You should also consult your doctor for any desired modification in the treatment plan to receive proper instructions.

Generally, the long-term use of narcotics can lead to constipation. Your doctor may direct you to use laxatives, increase fiber intake, and most importantly drink lots of fluids to prevent and treat severe cases. Just make sure that you follow directions precisely as continued constipation can progress in more serious medical issues.

Do not attempt to change anything in the prescribed treatment plan, especially the dosage and frequency of use because this can have fatal consequences.

Overdose symptoms may be different from one person to another; however, the most commons ones include weakness, extreme dizziness, trouble in breathing, decreased heart rate, cold and clammy skin, and seizures. XIf you notice any of these symptoms, see your doctor as soon as possible.

If you are feeling changes to your cardiac rhythm, experiencing dizziness, fainting or feeling cases of fast irregular heartbeats, you also better seek medical attention immediately. Also, remember that these symptoms are more likely to happen when your family has a history of heart rhythm problems like QT prolongation.

Other symptoms like fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness may be experienced when you suddenly get up from a sitting or lying position. To avoid this, get up slowly or lie down for some time to relieve the lightheadedness or dizziness.

If you have been medicating on methadone regularly for some time now, do not go cold turkey without consulting with your physician.

Your doctor may direct you to gradually decrease medication before ultimately stopping or replace it with another narcotic for a limited time to avoid risks of withdrawal. Also, before undergoing any medical examinations, consult the matter with your doctor as some test results may be altered by the presence of its metabolites. Furthermore, consider your feelings of drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness before driving or using machines as this can result in a fatal turn out.

Using methadone during pregnancy, on the other hand, can result in neonatal withdrawal syndrome to the child. You should consult with your doctor if your baby shows abnormal sleeping patterns, high-pitched cry, diarrhea, weight loss, tremors or shakiness, vomits or is not gaining the normal weight of his age.

 

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