Methadone Health Dictionary

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Methadone: From 2 Different Sources

A synthetic opioid analgesic drug that resembles morphine.

Methadone is used under supervision to relieve withdrawal symptoms in people undergoing a heroin or morphine detoxification programme.

Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, and dry mouth.

Health Source: BMA Medical Dictionary
Author: The British Medical Association
n. a potent opioid (see opiate) administered to relieve severe pain and as a linctus to suppress coughs in terminal illness. An opioid agonist, it can also be substituted for heroin to prevent withdrawal symptoms in heroin dependence. Digestive upsets, drowsiness, and dizziness may occur, and prolonged use may lead to dependence.
Health Source: Oxford | Concise Colour Medical Dictionary
Author: Jonathan Law, Elizabeth Martin

Methadone Hydrochloride

Also known as Physeptone®, this is a synthetic drug structurally similar to MORPHINE, one of many opioid drugs used to treat severe pain. Methadone is, however, less sedating and has a longer half-life. Furthermore, it is more reliable when taken orally. Although vomiting is common, this is generally less severe than with morphine.

Methadone is valuable as a suppressant for non-productive cough, acting on the medullary ‘cough centre’ in the central nervous system. It is also helpful in weaning addicts o? morphine and heroin, having a slower onset of DEPENDENCE and a less severe withdrawal syndrome. When used for prolonged periods, methadone should not be given more often than twice daily, to avoid the risks of accumulation and opioid overdosage.... methadone hydrochloride


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