The use of methadone to help with opiate addiction has been in the news often lately. With many states changing their laws, more people are becoming aware that it is possible to get this type of treatment for free if they live in the USA. This article will answer some common questions about methadone and provide information on finding out if you qualify for this drug therapy program.
What Is Methadone Exactly?
Methadone has been available for over 40 years, and it is used to treat people who are addicted to opioids like heroin or oxycodone. The drug blocks the ability of other opiates from affecting your body but still allows you to function normally in everyday life. Your doctor will determine which dose will work best for you, and that amount may change periodically depending on how well methadone works for you. You can also discuss if this type of medication might be right for you instead of giving up all opioid use forever.
How Does Methadone Curb Addictions?
Methadone is a long-acting opioid that blocks the euphoric effects of other opioids like heroin and morphine. This means you do not experience as much “high” from these drugs, which can help prevent relapse if this was your main reason for using them in the first place. Methadone also provides pain relief, but it is less potent than the opiates mentioned above, so patients may need higher doses to manage their condition effectively. In addition, methadone does not cause a respiratory depression like other opioids, preventing them from dying of an overdose.
How Is Methadone Administered?
Methadone is usually given as a daily pill, but it can also be dispensed by injection if that works better for you. It blocks the effects of opioids for 24 hours, so there is no rush to take another dose before then. This allows patients to go to work or school and not have any adverse interactions with others, unaware they are taking this drug therapy program. Methadone treatment programs typically last between one to two years, which means your insurance may pay for some or all of this type of medication depending on their policy details.
Is Methadone Free for Heroin Addicts in the USA?
Methadone is an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of opioid addiction, and it can be given to you at no cost if you live in the USA. Your doctor may still require a fee for their services, but they will not charge you anything extra for this type of drug therapy program. You can discuss costs with your insurance provider so that there are no surprises when receiving your bill after visiting them. Methadone is also covered under most health care plans because it has such wide usage today due to its effectiveness in treating heroin addiction symptoms.
Methadone can help people who use opioids like heroin get clean and sober again without having to worry about painful withdrawals or cravings that usually lead back to drug abuse. Instead, this type of medication allows them to focus on their recovery from addiction by taking one pill each day at home until they decide they want something different for themselves.
