AccuDiagnostics

Posts Tagged ‘methadone’

Methadone, a low potency opiate, is frequently used as an “intermediate” in rehabilitation and detoxification programs. However, as an addictive opiate substance, methadone itself can be extremely habit forming. Often, people in rehab who have experienced many relapses will be prescribed methadone for long periods of time, perhaps even years. Ultimately, methadone is a replacement addiction for something worse. Many methadone addicts carry valid prescriptions, and almost all will have previously been addicted to another, stronger opiate.

More than 100 tons of methadone are produced in the United States annually, and more than 25 million prescriptions are written for it. This dangerous, yet beneficial narcotic is listed among the top 10 drugs reported in drug abuse deaths.

It has been estimated that 60% of methadone users are gainfully employed in a variety of professions, many of which are white-collar jobs where drug use is not regularly suspected. The fact is this: although methadone deserves its place as a treatment for hazardous drug addictions, it is in itself an opiate-derived drug. In 2001, there were 90,232 emergency department visits related to opiate abuse. It is estimated that opiates are involved with 14% of national emergency department visits annually.

Whether an individual is prescribed methadone for chronic pain management or for opiate addiction maintenance, methadone is in itself a highly addictive and therefore very dangerous drug. Heroin addicts will often resort to methadone if they cannot get access to their preferred drug. Annually, 20% of heroin addicts in the United States alone switch to methadone maintenance treatment. Many more subsidize their addictions with methadone pills purchased on the street.

When used properly, methadone can assist substance abusers with the transition to a normal, substance-free life. Like any other substance vice, it can be hazardous — even deadly — if abused.

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