Methadone hydrochloride

Methadone hydrochloride is a synthetic opioid used primarily for pain management and as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. It is a long-acting opioid agonist that helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings in individuals addicted to opioids such as heroin and morphine.

Pharmacology

Methadone hydrochloride works by binding to the mu-opioid receptor in the brain, which helps to alleviate pain and reduce the euphoric effects of other opioids. It also has activity at the NMDA receptor, which may contribute to its effectiveness in treating neuropathic pain and reducing opioid tolerance.

Medical Uses

Pain Management

Methadone hydrochloride is used for the management of severe chronic pain when other pain management options are inadequate. It is particularly useful in patients with cancer pain or neuropathic pain.

Opioid Use Disorder

Methadone hydrochloride is a key component of MAT for opioid use disorder. It helps to stabilize patients by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, allowing them to engage in counseling and other supportive therapies. Methadone treatment is typically administered through specialized methadone clinics.

Administration

Methadone hydrochloride is available in various forms, including tablets, oral solutions, and injectable formulations. The dosage and administration depend on the individual patient's needs and the condition being treated. It is important to follow a healthcare provider's instructions carefully to avoid the risk of overdose and other adverse effects.

Side Effects

Common side effects of methadone hydrochloride include:

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Sweating
• Dry mouth

Serious side effects may include:

• Respiratory depression
• QT prolongation
• Hypotension
• Severe allergic reactions

Precautions

Patients taking methadone hydrochloride should be monitored for signs of respiratory depression, especially during the initiation of therapy and dose adjustments. It is also important to be aware of potential drug interactions, particularly with other central nervous system depressants and medications that affect the cytochrome P450 enzyme system.

History

Methadone was first synthesized in Germany in the late 1930s and was introduced to the United States in the 1940s. It has since become an essential medication in the treatment of opioid addiction and chronic pain management.

See Also

• Opioid use disorder
• Pain management
• Medication-assisted treatment
• Heroin
• Morphine
• Methadone clinic
• Mu-opioid receptor
• NMDA receptor