Methadone Maintenance: Methadone Symptoms & Side Effects

Question: Methadone maintenance?

(Posted by: Fendifreak on 2008-10-06 12:03:33)

How do methadone maintance clinics figure out the correct dose to give a patient? What if the dose is to low or high?

Posted by: JAMES P on 2008-10-06, 12:18:26

They usually go by your weight, age, and severity of pain. If the dose is to low or high, a simple question or statement of how you feel to the Pain Center Doctor should take care of it. Also you should look up Methadone on an internet site like medlineplus.com or better yet, talk to your Pharmacist. Good luck to you young lady, hope things work out for you.

Posted by: glennroid on 2008-10-06, 13:22:37

It depends on a lot of things. If you've been using a lot of narcotics and your tolerance is high, they'll probably start you out at a high dose. Like many long-term drugs chances are they'll have to adjust the dosage periodically. Methandone is a very hard drug to get off of, be absolutely sure you need to start it. It's much easier to get on than off.

Posted by: qtpie20121 on 2008-10-07, 17:13:23

The initial dose is based on your history of tolerance to opiates, your physical findings (COWS Score), degree of withdrawal symptoms. The federal Guidelines state you cannot be given more than 30mg as a starting dose. Then you will be gradually increased usually 5 mg every other day until the following criteria is reached... Your cravings are eliminated & Your withdrawal is eliminated. Symptoms that the dose is too high can include sedated, nodding, or unsteady. slowed or difficult breathing; a slow heartbeat; mental confusion; or, pinpoint pupils, In contrast, an unusual boost in energy and ability to stay awake long hours also may indicate overmedication. Report these symptoms immediately. Undermedication will produce signs of withdrawal, which can also include sleepiness but you will also have the desire to use. In either case your dose will be adjusted gradually until the criteria for stabalization are met and last for 3-5 days consecutively.