Transcript Methadone
Methadone: • Developed in 1937 in Germany by Scientists who were looking to solve Germany’s opium shortage. • It was rejected as the alternative to morphine due to the adverse effects it had on German soldiers. ---- effects on the soldiers included decreases willingness to engage in combat, lethargy, and/ or apathy. Methadone: • Works to treat pain by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. • It also works as a substitute for opiate drugs of abuse by producing similar effects and preventing withdrawal symptoms in people who have stopped using this drug. Schedule II drug There is high potential for abuse, but not as much as a schedule I drug. This drug is considered dangerous and could lead to severe psychological and physical dependence. • Dryness in the eyes, nose, and mouth due to the mucous membranes • Constipation • Constriction of a person’s pupils • Women: changes in menstrual cycle • Changes in sexual desires (decreases testosterone levels in both men and women) Methadone: • Works on part of the brain and spinal cord to block the “high” caused by using opiates such as heroin. • It also helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms caused by opiate use. • • • • • • • Drowsiness Nausea/Vomiting Stomach Pain Sweating Flushing Mood Changes Vision Problems • • • • Difficulty sleeping Dry mouth Weight Gain Swelling of hands, arms, feet and legs More Serious Side Effects include: • • • • Seizures Hives Rash Itching • http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/methadone/methad one.pdf • http://www.rxlist.com/methadone-hydrochloride-drug/patient-imagesside-effects.htm • http://www.methadoneabusehelp.com/methadone-street-names • http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682134.html • http://www.justice.gov/dea/druginfo/ds.shtml • http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/alcohol-abuse/methadone