Methadone clinics and long-term efficacy for opioid use disorder
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Methadone clinics and long-term efficacy for opioid use disorder.
Abstract
Methadone is a mu opioid agonist that binds to receptors located in the central nervous system (CNS) and cardiovascular tissue. Classified as a synthetic opioid, methadone is known to reduce symptoms of narcotic withdrawal and decrease the euphoric effects of other narcotics, including opioids.1 Due to its two features of a long half-life and high oral absorption,2 methadone is used as an alternative treatment to prevent or reduce withdrawal symptoms in the treatment of drug misuse,2 specifically for those unable to maintain abstinence from drug misuse.3
Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is the use of methadone for several months to years to treat opioid use disorder (OUD) and has been shown to reduce risky behaviors, blood-borne diseases, and polyabuse.3,4 It has also helped individuals with social re-integration, immunity, and memory preservation. However, its use is controversial due to relapses and adverse effects.5-7
Specifically, MMT can lead to adverse effects of the cardiovascular, endocrine, renal, gastrointestinal, and neuro/psychiatric systems. Based on the current literature, this paper briefly explores these adverse effects and their management, as well as provides perspective on emerging alternatives to MMT that may have a more positive safety profile for people with OUD.5,6,8
Publication Date
7-5-2023
Recommended Citation
Daguio, Kylie; Hwang, Rebekah; Oladinni, Damilola; Keane, James; and Goldstein, Leonard, "Methadone clinics and long-term efficacy for opioid use disorder" (2023). SOMA Faculty Publications. 23.
https://scholarworks.atsu.edu/soma-faculty/23