By We Level Up | Author Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA | Editorial Policy | Research Policy

Methadone is a medication used to treat opioid addiction and pain. It is an effective treatment for opioid use disorder, and many people safely take it for a long time. But there are also people who may want to get off methadone.

The process can take weeks or months. But with commitment and a solid plan, you can successfully detox from methadone and continue your recovery journey.

Methadone Detox Overview

Methadone detox is a gradual process of reducing your methadone dosage over weeks or months, depending on your needs. 

What to Expect:

• A personalized taper schedule design by your healthcare provider.
• Regular monitoring to track progress and address symptoms.
• Medications and therapies to alleviate discomfort.

The goal is to safely wean you off the medication while minimizing withdrawal symptoms.

Methadone Withdrawal Psychosis

Methadone withdrawal psychosis is a rare but serious complication. It can cause hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and disorganized thinking.

Risk factors include a history of psychiatric disorders, high methadone doses, and rapid tapering. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience psychotic symptoms during withdrawal. 

What Helps with Methadone Withdrawal Symptoms?

During methadone detox, you may experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage these symptoms and make the process more bearable.

Staying hydrated is essential, drinking water and avoiding sugary drinks which can worsen dehydration. Gentle exercise, relaxing techniques, and having a strong support system can help immensely with recovery as well. 

Methadone Withdrawal Treatments

During methadone detox, your healthcare provider may also prescribe medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. These can include:

• Clonidine to reduce anxiety, agitation, and muscle aches
• Antidiarrheal medications to relieve diarrhea and stomach cramps
• Anti-emetics for nausea and vomiting
• Trazodone, a non-addictive medication to help with sleep

Your healthcare team will monitor your progress and adjust medications as needed. Medications are just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Therapy, support groups, and aftercare are also needed for long-term recovery.

Rapid Methadone Detox

Rapid methadone detox involves using various levels of anesthesia while quickly flushing methadone from your system. It always takes place in a medical setting, under close supervision.

Rapid detox may sound appealing, but it comes with risks. Complications reported include fluid in the lungs and worse withdrawal symptom. There may also be a higher risk of relapse compared to gradual tapering. You’ll likely experience withdrawal symptoms after the procedure. These can be more intense than with gradual detox. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and body aches. 

Insurance companies also often consider it to be an experimental (unproven) treatment and will not cover it. So it could be expensive. It’s best to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before making a decision to undergo rapid detoxification.

Methadone Statistics

Methadone, a synthetic opioid, is mainly used to treat opioid dependence and chronic pain. However, prolonged use and misuse can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Methadone has a long half-life compared to other opioids, which means it stays in the body longer and can help prevent withdrawal symptoms. However, this also means it can build up in the body and cause potentially dangerous side effects if not used properly.

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What To Know About Rapid Methadone Detox?

Rapid methadone or ultra-rapid or anesthesia-assisted detox is a controversial and potentially risky procedure aiming to accelerate detoxification. In this procedure, the individual is placed under anesthesia and given high opioid antagonists, such as naloxone or naltrexone, to speed up the withdrawal process. Here are some rapid methadone detox key points to keep in mind if you’re considering this method:

• Most medical professionals do not recommend the rapid methadone detox procedure due to potential risks and lack of evidence supporting its effectiveness.
• The procedure can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening due to the risks associated with anesthesia and rapid withdrawal.
• Rapid methadone detox is not a guaranteed cure for opioid dependence and may require follow-up treatment, such as medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and therapy.
• Some studies have suggested that rapid methadone detox may have a higher risk of relapse and complications than other detoxification methods.
• Methadone detox should only be undertaken with the guidance and support of medical professionals experienced in treating opioid dependence.

Inpatient Methadone Detox

There are many practical and evidence-based methods for methadone detox, including gradual tapering, medication-assisted treatment, and behavioral therapy. These approaches are generally considered safer and more effective than rapid methadone detox.

One of the most significant benefits of undergoing a medical detox is the around-the-clock medical care and supervision; because you have trained medical professionals constantly checking on you, they can make the entire withdrawal and detox process as painless and comfortable as possible. They will also ensure you are slowly weaned off the methadone instead of quitting cold turkey.

Can You Die From Methadone Withdrawal?

While methadone withdrawal can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous, it is generally not considered to be fatal on its own. However, in some cases, complications related to methadone withdrawal can lead to serious health issues that may be life-threatening. Here are some potential problems or difficulties that can arise while detoxing off methadone:

• Suicidal Ideation: Methadone withdrawal can be emotionally challenging, and some individuals may experience suicidal ideation or behavior during the process.
• Dehydration: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common symptoms of methadone withdrawal and can lead to dehydration if left untreated.
• Malnutrition: Loss of appetite and gastrointestinal problems during methadone withdrawal can lead to malnutrition and other health issues.
• Respiratory Depression: Methadone withdrawal can cause respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening if not addressed adequately.
• Heart Complications: Methadone withdrawal can cause heart rate and blood pressure changes, sometimes leading to heart complications.

Methadone For Alcohol Withdrawal

Methadone is not typically used for alcohol withdrawal. Methadone is an opioid medication primarily used to treat opioid dependence and addiction. While some drugs, such as benzodiazepines, are commonly used to treat alcohol withdrawal, methadone alcohol withdrawal medication is not one of them.

The standard of care for alcohol withdrawal typically involves the use of medications such as benzodiazepines, which can help to manage symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, and seizures. In some cases, other medications may be used, such as antipsychotics or anticonvulsants. Overall, methadone should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare provider and only for its approved indications.

How To Properly Use Methadone For Detox

Methadone for withdrawal is a potent opioid medication for treating opioid dependence and addiction. To properly use methadone, it is critical to follow these guidelines:

• Methadone should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in managing opioid dependence and addiction.
• Methadone should be taken exactly as prescribed. Please do not take more or less methadone than your doctor has specified, and do not take it more often than prescribed.
• Methadone should be taken with food or milk to help prevent stomach upset.
• Do not drink alcohol or use other drugs while taking methadone. This can increase the risk of dangerous side effects.
• Do not stop taking methadone without first consulting with your healthcare provider. Methadone should be tapered slowly to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
• Methadone can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired thinking. Do not work with or operate heavy machinery or drive until you know how methadone affects you.
• Methadone can interact with other medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements. Ensure your healthcare provider knows all the medicines and supplements you are taking.
• Keep methadone in a secure location and out of reach of children. Also, it is crucial for pregnant women who are taking methadone to receive appropriate prenatal care and to work closely with their healthcare provider to manage their methadone use during pregnancy. This can help to minimize the risk of methadone withdrawal in infants. If you suspect infant methadone withdrawal in your child, seek medical attention immediately to ensure safe and effective treatment.

By following these tips for methadone use, you can help ensure the safe and effective use of methadone to treat opioid dependence and addiction. Even if methadone is commonly used to treat other opioid addictions, such as heroin and fentanyl, this medication can also cause physical and mental dependency. Methadone withdrawal usually begins how soon after the last dose. Methadone withdrawal should be managed under medical supervision to ensure that potential complications are identified and treated promptly. If you or someone you’re concerned with is experiencing methadone withdrawal, seeking medical attention immediately is necessary.

Methadone Detox Centers

Inpatient methadone detox is a treatment program that involves staying in a residential facility while undergoing detoxification from methadone. This type of treatment can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have been using methadone for a long time or who have been unable to stop using methadone on their own successfully.

During inpatient methadone detox, individuals typically receive round-the-clock medical care and support from a team of healthcare providers. This can include medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and counseling and other support services to help address the underlying issues that may have caused addiction.

How long do methadone withdrawals take? The duration of inpatient methadone detox can vary based on the individual’s needs and addiction severity. Some programs may last for several days, while others may last for several weeks or months.

In addition to providing medical care and support, inpatient methadone detox programs may offer various other services and activities to help individuals recover from addiction. These include group therapy, individual counseling, recreational activities, and life skills training.

Inpatient methadone detox is an effective way to manage withdrawal symptoms and begin recovering from methadone addiction. However, choosing a reputable treatment program and working closely with healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective treatment is necessary.

Methadone Withdrawal in Jail

Methadone withdrawal can be challenging to manage under any circumstances, but it can be particularly difficult for individuals experiencing withdrawal symptoms in jail or prison. Healthcare providers in jail or prison may be limited in their ability to provide treatment for methadone withdrawal due to resource constraints or legal restrictions on using certain medications.

Suppose you or someone you’re concerned with is in jail or prison and experiencing methadone withdrawal. In that case, it is critical to seek medical detox attention immediately to ensure safe and effective treatment. Working with healthcare providers to develop a plan for managing addiction and withdrawal symptoms during and after incarceration is also necessary.

Methadone Withdrawal Medications

Several medications can be used to manage the symptoms of methadone withdrawal. The specific drugs used may depend on the severity of withdrawal symptoms and the individual’s medical history. Here are some common methadone withdrawal meds that may be used to manage methadone withdrawal:

• Clonidine: This medication is often used for high blood pressure treatment, but it can also be used to manage the symptoms of methadone withdrawal. It works by reducing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, which can help to relieve some of the physical symptoms of withdrawal.
• Benzodiazepines: These medications are often used to manage anxiety and insomnia, which are common symptoms of methadone withdrawal. Benzodiazepines enhance the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which can help calm the nervous system.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: NSAIDs can help relieve the muscle and joint pain associated with methadone withdrawal.
• Antidepressants: These medications may be used to manage the mood symptoms associated with methadone withdrawal, such as depression and anxiety.
• Opioid Agonists: These medications, such as buprenorphine, can help manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse. They work by activating the same receptors in the brain that methadone activates but to a lesser degree. This can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings while minimizing the risk of addiction.

What Happens During Methadone Detox?

Detoxing from methadone is never easy, but treatment at one of We Level Up’s methadone detox centers can make the process simpler, more comfortable, and more achievable. To detox methadone, the process takes place across distinct stages, each of which helps people overcome various aspects of methadone addiction.

Step 1. Assessment

The first step of methadone detox is a detailed and thorough assessment performed by our team of addiction and mental health professionals. Your initial assessment will answer several important questions, including:

• How frequently you’ve been taking methadone?
• Your typical methadone dose.
• How long you’ve been taking methadone?
• Whether you’ve been using drugs or alcohol in addition to methadone.
• Whether you have any pre-existing medical conditions.
• Whether you’re taking any prescription medications.

Answering these questions during the assessment stage helps our team create a personalized treatment plan to minimize your withdrawal from methadone and help you achieve sobriety.

The assessment stage typically occurs on your first day in our methadone detox centers. After acquiring the information needed to create a treatment plan, you’ll receive a prescription for any supportive medications used during detox and begin the next phase of treatment.

Step 2. Stabilization

The stabilization phase of treatment takes up the bulk of your stay at our methadone detox center. During this phase, clients are under 24/7 medical observation and monitoring, and they receive targeted treatments and medications to help them with any uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms they may be experiencing.

You can start experiencing withdrawal symptoms several days after you last used methadone. Unfortunately, methadone withdrawal can last much longer than typical opioid withdrawal symptoms. For this reason, the stabilization stage of methadone detox can last significantly longer than other substance use detox programs.

Our team will administer prescription medications explicitly designed to alleviate severe withdrawal symptoms during treatment. This includes treating psychological symptoms like drug cravings, anxiety, depression, and trouble sleeping.

Step 3. Transition

While medical detox is an essential first step in overcoming methadone dependency, many people will require addiction treatment to achieve long-term recovery. Moreover, people addicted to methadone may continue experiencing post-acute withdrawal symptoms after detox, which can often trigger a relapse if not treated with evidence-based treatment.

Accordingly, the last stage of your methadone detox focuses on transitioning to the next level of care. At We Level Up, this process is as streamlined as possible. Our treatment network covers the entire continuum of care, allowing clients who attend methadone detox to seamlessly transition into inpatient or residential treatment programs after finishing the methadone withdrawal timing and process.

What Happens After Methadone Detox?

Following detox for methadone addiction, most people will enter a formal addiction treatment program to learn the skills and coping mechanisms required for a lifetime in recovery.

If you’re searching for a “detox from methadone near me?” We Level Up offers several levels of care to support this process and can be there to help you along every step in your recovery journey. We can help you navigate treatment options and centers near you.

Benefits Of Undergoing A Medical Detox

Searching for “methadone rehabs near me?” We Level Up addiction treatment center provides world-class care with round-the-clock treatment professionals to help you cope. We work as an integrated team providing support through methadone detox and other aspects of treatment. Make this your chance to reclaim your life. 

Each call is private and confidential, and there is never any obligation.

Contact one of our treatment specialists. Our specialists know what you are going through and will answer any of your questions. If you’re looking for a “methadone detox center near me?” We can help you explore treatment options and detox centers.

Methadone Detox Near Me

We Level Up has several detox centers in different states and cities for you to choose from accordingly to your location and specific needs. From “methadone detox Florida” to detox centers in California, New Jersey, Washington, Texas, and other states. The We Level Up treatment center offers top-notch care and has on-call doctors ready around the clock to assist you. As a cohesive team, we offer support during the methadone detox process and other parts of treatment. Take advantage of your chance to recover your life. Stop searching for a detox from methadone near you, and call now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Alumni Coordinator, Nicole Baxter’s Methadone Addiction Recovery Journey With Support From Daughter

Get FREE addiction treatment insurance check – https://welevelup.com/rehab-insurance/. If you or a loved one is struggling with methadone addiction or other substance use disorder(s), call a FREE consultation 24/7 at (561) 678-0917