OPIOIDS : METHADONE

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT METHADONE

• Methadone hydrochloride is a white, chrystalline and water soluble material
• Originally synthesized by Germans in World War II
• Used as an analgesic (painkiller)

Alternate Names
Generic Name: Methadone
Brand Names: Dolophine, Methadose

MEDICAL USES

• Reduces withdrawal symptoms in people addicted to narcotics.
• Used as a painkiller
• Helps to reduce cravings

PHYSICAL DEPENDENCIES

• Suppressed cough reflex
• Contracted pupils
• Drowsiness
• Constipation

The drug can be taken though injections, tablets, and/or liquids.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

• Muscle spasticity
• Difficulty breathing
• Slow, shallow, labored breathing
• Pinpoint pupils
• Bluish skin

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS (CONT)

• Bluish fingernails and lips
• Spasms of stomach and/or intestinal tract
• Constipation
• Weak pulse
• Low blood pressure

SIGNS AND EFFECTS OF AN OVERDOSE

• Trouble breathing
• Severe dizziness, drowsiness, or weakness
• Cold, clammy skin
• Confusion
• Restlessness

WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS

• Chills and/or tremors
• Auditory and/or visual hallucinations
• Depression and/or delirium
• Elevated pain sensitivity
• Imsomnia

SIGNS OF BEING "ON" METAHDONE

• Contracted pupils that appears small
• Muscles are slack and may be drooping
• Said person might "nod out"
• Speech might be slurred
• General confusion

METHODS OF GETTING METHADONE

• Prescribed by a doctor
• Buying from someone to whom it was prescribed to
• Buying from a third party

SOME FAMOUS PEOPLE WHO'VE DONE OPIOIDS

• Courtney Love
• Charlie Sheen
• Winona Ryder
• Jamie Lee Curtis
• Kelly and Jack Osbourne