Follow Directions
How to Use Methadone Safely
Methadone Is a Proven Road to Relief...If You Keep Your Eyes on the
Road
Methadone provides relief to patients who do not respond to
non-narcotic pain medications and to individuals who suffer from
addiction and dependence on heroin and narcotic pain medicines.
Here are some simple ways to reduce the risks:
- Know and share your complete health history with health
professionals, especially if you are a first-time user. Other medicines
may interact with methadone and cause heart conditions.
- Take methadone exactly as prescribed. Follow your doctor's
directions exactly.
- Never use more than the amount prescribed, at the times prescribed.
If you miss a dose or if you feel it is not working, do not take
extra.
- Use caution when taking methadone. Don't consume alcohol. Be careful
driving or operating machinery.
- Take care not to abuse methadone. It can be addictive.
- Call 911 if you take too much methadone or overdose.
- Take steps to prevent children from accidentally taking methadone;
never give methadone to anyone else.
- Store methadone at room temperature and away from light.
- Dispose of unused methadone by flushing it down the toilet.
Take Side Effects Seriously
Some are emergencies. Patients should stop taking methadone—and
contact a physician or emergency services right away—if they:
- Have difficulty breathing or shallow breathing
- Feel lightheaded or faint
- Get hives or a rash; have swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or
throat
- Feel chest pain
- Have a fast or pounding heartbeat
- Have hallucinations or confusion
Need More Information?
Patients who develop a problem with methadone or have questions
should speak with a physician or contact 1-800-662-HELP.
Helpful information can also be found at the following Web sites:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
http://www.hhs.gov
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
http://www.samhsa.gov
Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT)
http://www.csat.samhsa.gov
CSAT's Division of Pharmacologic Therapies
http://www.dpt.samhsa.gov/methadonesafety
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
http://www.fda.gov
