How methadone treatment is delivered

Methadone dependence is a form of drug dependence that develops through the use of methadone, a synthetic opioid that is commonly used medically to treat addiction to opioids (e.g. heroin or morphine). However, if methadone is used without professional supervision or in large doses, it can lead to physical and psychological dependence on the drug itself. 

Methadone dependence can manifest itself in a variety of ways. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of methadone addiction include:

• tolerance to the drug develops – gradually the person needs to increase the dose of methadone to achieve the desired effect;
• physical dependence – cessation of methadone use causes physical ailments and withdrawal symptoms such as muscle aches, insomnia, anxiety, sweating, etc;
• the emergence of psychological dependence – a person may feel a strong desire to use methadone, even if there is no physical discomfort;
• reduced social and occupational functionality – methadone addiction can lead to problems in relationships, work and finances;
• developing resistance to addiction medication – methadone dependent patients may be less responsive to standard opioid dependence treatment.

Treatment for methadone addiction includes both medication (e.g. methadone substitution therapy with gradual dose reduction) and psychosocial support (psychotherapy, group therapy and other types of support). The aim of treatment is to help the client/tangata whai ora to stop using methadone and regain a normal physical and psychological state.

If you or someone you know is struggling with methadone dependence, it is recommended that you seek help from an addiction specialist or other drug treatment professional to develop a personalised treatment and support plan. You should not expect the disease to go away on its own. It is not possible to recover from such addiction on your own. 

Methadone Addiction Treatment Prices (Cost)

What medications are used in the treatment of methadone dependence

Medication therapy for methadone dependence involves the use of specially selected medications, the effect of which is aimed at improving the patient’s physical and psychological state. Such medications include:

• Methadone substitution therapy is one of the standard treatments. The patient is given a dose of methadone under the supervision of medical staff. The dose may be gradually reduced to help the patient to withdraw completely. This method can reduce the desire to use other opioids and reduce withdrawal symptoms.
• Buprenorphine is another opioid that is used as a substitute for methadone. It performs similar functions and aims to reduce the desire for opioids.
• Naltrexone – this medicine blocks the effects of opioids. It can be used to prevent the effects of methadone and other opioids, but its use should be closely monitored by a healthcare professional.

Treatment of methadone dependence in Ukraine is carried out only in inpatient settings in specialised clinics. You can get detailed information about therapy from GarMed staff by contacting us in a convenient way or by contacting us directly at the medical centre in Kiev. 

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