Methadone (By Mouth)

Methadone (METH-a-done)

Treats severe and chronic pain. It is also used to control withdrawal symptoms in patients being treated for narcotic drug addiction. Belongs to a class of drugs called narcotic analgesics.

Brand Name(s):

Methadone HCl Intensol, Methadose, Dolophine HCl
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to methadone, or to other types of narcotic pain medicine such as codeine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Tablet for Suspension, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often. Take this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered.
• You may take your medicine with food or milk to avoid stomach upset.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Mix the oral concentrate with 2 tablespoons of liquid (unless your doctor tells you something different). Drink the medicine right away.
• Mix the tablet for suspension with water or another liquid, then drink the mixture right away. Do not swallow the tablet, and do not use it without mixing it in liquid first.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Store the oral liquid at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Avoid drinking alcohol.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking any other kind of medicine that could make you drowsy, such as sedatives, cold or allergy medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, or strong pain killers.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking methadone if you have asthma, seizures, low blood pressure, liver or kidney disease.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• This medicine can be habit-forming. You should not use more than your doctor ordered.
• If you have taken this medicine for several weeks, ask your doctor before stopping. You may need to take smaller and smaller doses before stopping completely.
• This medicine may cause dizziness or confusion. Be careful if driving a car or using machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Fast or slowed heartbeat
• Trouble breathing
• Hives, skin rash, or itching
• Severe confusion, hallucinations

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Drowsiness, dizziness, or weakness
• Headache
• Dry mouth, nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Excessive sweating, facial flushing (redness)

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.