What are the Signs of Methadone Addiction?

Recognizing the Signs of Methadone Addiction

Are you struggling with methadone addiction? Do yourself a favor and contact a methadone treatment center. Even if you are not sure that you want to enter a treatment program, contact WhiteSands Treatment today at (877)-855-3470 for more information on how treatment will change your life. If you believe that a loved one is hooked on methadone, be sure to familiarize yourself with the signs of methadone addiction so that you are able to recognize them!..

Methadone

Methadone is a prescription medication that is used to treat patients who suffer from severe pain twenty-four seven and who other medications did not work for. Methadone is an opiate (narcotic). This drug changes the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain.

Methadone is also used to prevent withdrawal symptoms in those individuals who are having difficulty kicking an opiate habit. Of course, it is administered by medical professionals only at a methadone treatment center.

Methadone works in the withdrawing addict the same way it works for pain patients. It changes the way the brain responds to pain. Thus, making it easier for heroin addicts, for example, to complete a detox program. Methadone comes in tablet form, powder form, and liquid form.

Signs of Methadone Addiction

What are the signs of methadone addiction? There are some universal behaviors that indicate someone is addicted to drugs. A lack of control over taking the substance – no matter what the consequences are – is a good indication that the person has a problem.

If you notice they have “upped” their dosage without consulting their physician – this is a problem. Additionally, if you notice this individual is continuing to take the drugs once the doctor has stopped treating them for the issue – they may be in deep trouble. These are telling signs of methadone addiction. Other methadone addiction signs to look out for include:

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Restlessness
• Constipation
• Itchy skin
• Pupil contraction
• Severe sweating
• In women: changes in cycles or lapse in cycles

Slang for Methadone

It is of utmost importance that you become familiar with the slang terms for the drug that you suspect your loved one of abusing. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency, some common slang names for Methadone include:

• Amidone
• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Dollies
• Tootsie Rolls
• Balloons
• Jungle
• Junk
• Maria
• Fizzies
• Pastora
• Salvia
• Wafer
• Street Methadone

If the suspected individual is using these terms, it may be one of the Methadone addiction signs.

Overdose Effects

If you have not been able to spot signs of methadone addiction, but witness the effects below, please seek help immediately!

• Slow and shallow breathing
• Weak pulse
• Convulsions
• Blue lips
• Blue fingernails
• Stomach spasms
• Clammy skin

Methadone overdose may result in coma or even death. If you really suspect someone of abusing methadone, it may be time to speak to them about it before it ruins their life. Although the addict may be upset with you, you may be the reason they seek help.

Long-Term Effects

There are long-term repercussions from using and abusing methadone. While the effects may vary by the individual, here are some general long-term side-effects:

• Increased risk of methadone overdose
• Blood borne diseases
• Respiratory failure
• Erectile dysfunction
• Severely impaired judgement
• Sexual dysfunction in women

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.