|
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' National Institute of Health Consensus Panel in 1997, found the following concerning methadone treatment for opiate dependency: "Of the various treatments available, methadone maintenance treatment, combined with attention to medical, psychiatric and socioeconomic issues, as well as drug counseling, has the highest probability of being effective." Outcome based research has supported the effectiveness of MAT. Among the most commonly cited outcomes are: significant decline in consumption of illicit drugs, substantial reduction in criminal activity, reduced risk of transmitted diseases, and increased functioning in family, social, and employment responsibilities. Methadone is not trading one drug for another. Methadone does not create a pleasurable or euphoric feeling at the appropriate therapeutic dose; rather it relieves withdrawal symptoms and craving for opioids by blocking opiate receptor sites in the brain. Methadone normalizes the body's metabolic and hormonal functioning that was impaired by the use of opioids. It is a corrective, not curative, treatment. Unlike the disruptive nature of short acting chemicals on the brain, methadone has long-acting properties that provide metabolic stability for 24 to 36 hours. Patients report feeling "normal" throughout the day on a single dose and are able to perform normal daily functions without impairment. When taken as prescribed, long term administration of methadone causes no adverse effects to the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, blood, bones, brain, or other vital organs. Some initial side effects may include constipation, water retention, drowsiness, skin rash, sweating, and decreased libido. These usually occur during the initial induction stage of treatment. Symptoms generally subside or cease as the methadone dosage is adjusted and stabilized. Nursing staff closely monitors each patient's adjustment to any medications prescribed to ensure safety and optimal benefits. Patients on methadone can be treated with most medications without serious interactions or contraindications. For example, patients with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiac conditions, cancer, psychiatric disorders, etc. may be treated effectively with routinely prescribed medications. However, as with any medication, the treating physicians must be aware of all other medications that patients are taking. Coordinating medication assisted treatment with one's primary care physician and/or specialists is crucial to the overall safety and effectiveness of treatment. |
