4+Myths+of+Methadone

__Myths of Methadone __**//__ : __//**

Myth : Methadone is just trading one drug for another – Actually methadone does not meet the requirements for an addictive drug. For a drug to be addictive it has to cause significant impairment in functioning as well as cause the person that is using it to continue its use despite the problems it causes. People that are on methadone are dependent on it as a medication in a similar way that diabetics are dependent on their insulin. The medication in certain doses has to be taken at a specific time or the person becomes sick. Opioids cause brain damage when used for a long period of time; methadone stabilizes the brain chemistry that heroin first deranged. (CAMH 2009)

Myth : Methadone will get you high – Methadone does not make you high. It may make you feel lightheaded or sleepy for a few days, but you will build up a tolerance for it. (CAMH 2009)

Myth : Long term use of methadone damages the liver, thyroid gland and memory – If you are on the correct dosage of methadone it will not damage your organs or affect your memory. In fact if you have such diseases as hepatitis or cirrhosis of the liver, methadone can improve your access to medical treatment so you can get help to manage the illness. (CAMH 2009)

Myth : Methadone rots your teeth and bones - This is a common myth, and although it’s not true, the reasons behind the myth deserve some consideration. One of the side-effects of methadone, like many medications, is that it gives you a dry mouth. This can make your teeth more prone to the production of plaque, which is a major cause of gum disease and tooth decay. To protect your teeth, follow the dental routine recommended for everyone: brush and floss every day, rinse your mouth with mouthwash, go to the dentist at least twice a year, and cut sugar from your diet. Drinking plenty of water can also help to relieve dry mouth. If you’re on methadone, and you feel like your bones are rotting, it’s probably because you’re on too low a dose. Bone ache, which may feel like bone “rot,” is a symptom of methadone withdrawal. When your dose is adjusted correctly you should not experience any aching or other symptoms of withdrawal. This is a common myth, and although it’s not true, the reasons behind the myth deserve some consideration. One of the side-effects of methadone, like many medications, is that it gives you a dry mouth. This can make your teeth more prone to the production of plaque, which is a major cause of gum disease and tooth decay. To protect your teeth, follow the dental routine recommended for everyone: brush and floss every day, rinse your mouth with mouthwash, go to the dentist at least twice a year, and cut sugar from your diet. Drinking plenty of water can also help to relieve dry mouth. If you’re on methadone, and you feel like your bones are rotting, it’s probably because you’re on too low a dose. Bone ache, which may feel like bone “rot,” is a symptom of methadone withdrawal. When your dose is adjusted correctly you should not experience any aching or other symptoms of withdrawal.(CAMH 2008) []

Myth : Methadone makes you gain weight – While some people will gain weight when they first start taking methadone, it is because they are healthier and are eating better. For weight control the person can choose to eat a healthy balanced diet that is high in fiber, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. (CAMH2008)

Myth : Methadone is a legal way for addicts to get high - Stabilized methadone patients who are on an adequate dose of methadone (not too high and not too low, and taken every day as prescribed) are indistinguishable from the rest of society. They hold down jobs, own homes and raise families. Many people consider methadone to be a life saver, and as long as the dose is not too high and causing the patient to feel drowsy, taking it causes clients to feel normal rather than euphoric, messed up, tranquilized or high. .( [|becauseilive] n.d. [])

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