To treat opioid addiction, Suboxone is not the only medication. Some of you may have heard of methadone to treat opioid addiction. This painkiller has been used for over 50 years. However, for some reason, it is not used as a first choice.
This article will help you know the differences between Suboxoneor Methadone treatment based on which you can choose your treatment plan.
Methadone is a powerful drug, but it contains a higher concentration of opioids than Suboxone®. This higher amount can make a patient dependent on methadone because it activates opioid receptors in the brain to the same extent as opioids.
Besides, compared to Suboxone and other opioids, methadone has a long half-life, which means it tends to stay in the body for a long time. However, although methadone is a medically accepted drug, the DEA has classified it as a Schedule II substance that can cause psychological and physical dependence.
Side effects of methadone
Gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Muscle tremors
Hallucinations
Epileptic seizures
Impotence
Drowsiness
Depression of respiratory function
Irregular heartbeat
Unlike Suboxone, methadone cannot be taken without specialized and licensed clinics by medical professionals. Patients receiving Suboxone® do not need to make daily visits to the doctor. A prescription from health care professionals is sufficient for them to continue taking the medication. In contrast, methadone patients must make daily visits to a health care professional until they meet state and federal requirements. After that, they will be allowed to take their medication at home.
Also, these medications are not available everywhere. You can find them at federally licensed doctors.
Bottom line!
Whichever treatment you choose, both medications require a descriptive behavioral treatment plan that includes counseling and education for the patient to handle the causes of the addiction. This will help the patient recover and prevent relapse. From the beginning of treatment, the patients will remain under medical supervision until they are cured.