Methadone Detox

Methadone is a medication prescribed to treat opioid use disorder. A long-acting opioid agonist, methadone is generally effective in treating moderate or severe opioid use disorder. However, the drug has a high potential for misuse. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified methadone as a Schedule II substance. Fortunately, there are several favorable alternatives available, including Subutex and Suboxone. Methadone detox in Tennessee can help you recover safely and effectively. 

Because methadone is addictive, developing a methadone use disorder is possible. If you or someone you love is looking to detox from methadone, we can help. We have developed a safe and effective detoxification program at Detox West Tennessee. We combine professional medical care with evidence-based therapies. 

Our clients begin their journey of methadone addiction recovery by undergoing methadone withdrawal in a structured environment. Once they have been physically stabilized, we help them transition into the next phase of treatment. To learn more about methadone detox in Memphis, contact us today. 

What Is Methadone?

Methadone is an FDA-approved medication. It is prescribed for the treatment of opioid use disorder and sometimes used for pain management. When taken as prescribed, methadone is generally safe and effective. 

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Methadone helps individuals achieve and sustain recovery and to reclaim active and meaningful lives. Methadone is one component of a comprehensive treatment plan, which includes counseling and other behavioral health therapies to provide patients with a whole-person approach.” 

Methadone can be an effective component of OUD treatment, but to be effective long-term, it must be coupled with supplemental treatment options. Unfortunately, many individuals who are prescribed methadone end up misusing the substance. Over time, they develop methadone dependence. When a person with opioid dependence attempts to quit, they experience a range of uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous withdrawal symptoms. At Detox West Tennesee we  offer treatment for methadone addiction. Furthermore, we treat the symptoms of methadone withdrawal as soon as they develop. 

How Does Methadone Work?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports, “Methadone is a synthetic opioid agonist that eliminates withdrawal symptoms and relieves drug cravings by acting on opioid receptors in the brain—the same receptors that other opioids such as heroin, morphine, and opioid pain medications activate.” People who are prescribed methadone do not experience the same feelings of euphoria produced by opioid painkillers, heroin, or fentanyl. However, the medication is generally only safe when taken for a short period of time. 

Many individuals who misuse methadone combine it with other chemical substances. Consequently, it is difficult to determine how many cases of methadone use disorder occur on an annual basis. However, statistical evidence points to an ongoing increase in methadone misuse. Fortunately, there are many effective treatment options available with methadone detox in Memphis.

Methadone Addiction Signs & Symptoms 

What are the symptoms of methadone addiction? Methadone use disorder develops over time. Once physical and psychological dependence develops, a person is no longer able to control their methadone use. At this point, professional  treatment for methadone addiction is necessary. 

The most common signs of methadone addiction are:

• Attempting to quit or cut back on the amount of methadone being used with limited success. 
• Craving methadone throughout the day. 
• Consistently using more methadone than intended for longer periods of time than intended. 
• Experiencing problems in interpersonal relationships as a result of methadone use.
• Experiencing issues at work or at school as a result of methadone use. 
• Spending a disproportionate amount of time obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of methadone. 
• Combining methadone with other chemical substances.
• Neglecting activities that were previously enjoyed and held in high esteem. 
• Developing a physical tolerance for methadone over time. 
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when methadone is stopped suddenly. 

Methadone Withdrawal Timeline

As is the case with withdrawal from other opioids, methadone withdrawal can be uncomfortable but is rarely life-threatening. A common concern is “How long do methadone withdrawals last?” Most severe symptoms resolve within one week though people with more severe methadone addictions might experience symptoms for two weeks or longer. Professional treatment for methadone withdrawals is necessary to get through the process safely.

During a detox from methadone, the most common symptoms of methadone withdrawal include:

• Anxiety/panic attacks. 
• Irritability and agitation. 
• Stomach cramping. 
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 
• Restlessness/an inability to sit still. 
• Insomnia and other sleep-related issues. 
• Flu-like symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. 
• Low-grade fever. 
• Muscle aches and joint pain. 
• Intense drug cravings. 

In most cases, the most severe symptoms of opioid withdrawal are effectively treated with a combination of comfort medications and behavioral therapies. A professional methadone detox in Memphis gets you through the process as safely and comfortably as possible. 

What to Expect from Our West Tennessee Methadone Detox 

Entering into methadone addiction treatment can seem overwhelming. This is especially true if a person does not understand the detox process and the methadone withdrawal timeline. Fortunately, we take the guesswork out of the treatment process by thoroughly answering any questions future clients might have, such as, “How long do methadone withdrawals last?” We walk them through the process from beginning to end. 

Once a client arrives at methadone detox in Memphis, they:

• Undergo a personalized and detailed assessment. This assessment helps our clinical team determine which detoxification methods will be most effective for each unique case. Assessments are physical, behavioral, and psychological in nature. 
• Are shown around our state-of-the-art treatment facility. Comfort is one of our top priorities. Clients have access to a range of amenities throughout their stay. 
• Are assigned a clinical team. Each client is paired with a case manager, a licensed therapist, and a team of experienced medical professionals. The clinical team ensures each client is safe and comfortable at all times. The clinical team also prepares each client for continued success in sobriety by crafting a personalized aftercare plan. 

Methadone Detox 

Our methadone detox in Memphis provides individualized and effective detox services to Tennessee residents of all ages and walks of life. Treatment for methadone withdrawal and so much more is within your reach. If you or someone close to you has been struggling with a methadone use disorder and has had a difficult time quitting without help, reach out to us today. Our team of experienced and compassionate professionals is available to walk you through our admissions process.