Many opioid addicts become dependent on methadone, and Maryland detoxification centers for methadone addiction routinely treat patients withdrawing from methadone. Methadone is a synthetic opioid prescribed for moderate to severe pain. The drug is also commonly used to treat opiate addictions, especially addiction to heroin. Within the United States, methadone is federally designated as a Schedule II drug, which means it is used medically but has a high potential for addiction and dependence. The sustained use of methadone does lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. However, it is an option that many opiate addicts choose because they struggle with the withdrawal symptoms and cravings caused by methadone. Methadone does have sedative effects creating the same euphoric effects as heroin, despite blocking the effects of other opioids.
According to the Maryland Department of Health, regarding unintentional drug and alcohol-related intoxication deaths in 2018. During 2018 there was a total of 2,406 drug and alcohol-related deaths. The number of deaths increased for the eighth year in a row and represented a 5% increase from 2017. Between 2011 and 2016, intoxication deaths increased among all age groups. Adults during that time in the state aged 45 to 54 saw the most significant increase in drug-related deaths. Between 2017 and 2018, the rate of drug-related deaths was decreasing among those aged 25 to 34. The number of fatalities increased among older adults in 2018 and was highest among those 55 years and older.
Opioid addiction is dangerous and difficult to struggle with. Becoming dependent on methadone is also dangerous. The best treatment approaches are medically supervised detox, such as withdrawal management and or medication-assisted treatment. The withdrawal symptoms are similar to other opioids and are challenging to manage without proper help and treatment. The methadone detox programs in Maine are practical solutions to help drug users overcome their addictions and maintain their sobriety following outpatient and or inpatient drug treatment. Detox alone does not sustain long-lasting sobriety, which is why proper counseling and therapy is required.
