METHADONE DETOX IN HOUSTON

Methadone is a medication that can help individuals overcome dependence on heroin, fentanyl, and other opioid drugs. However, methadone is itself an opioid and therefore it can also be addictive. People often become dependent on methadone after using the medication for a long period of time.

Methadone is a difficult substance to detox from due to the length that withdrawal symptoms often last. It’s not uncommon for people to experience physical symptoms for up to a month. This makes seeking a medical detox from methadone a much more appealing option. Methadone detox will also help eliminate the chances of relapse. Magnolia City Detox offers supervised medical detox for anyone that is suffering from methadone addiction.

The Methadone Detox Process

Typically, doctors will work with the patient to gradually taper them off the methadone. This way they are less likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. It should be mentioned though if someone has been prescribed methadone as part of a medication-assisted treatment they should not discontinue using the medication for less than a year.

Buprenorphine can also be used to treat methadone dependency, however, if someone is taking more than 30 mg of methadone a day they may experience withdrawal symptoms. So it’s more common for doctors to work with the patient and have them taper off the methadone over time.

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What is High-Dose Methadone Detox?

High-does methadone detox simply means that the dose of methadone that will be used in the taper will be much higher. This is done when someone is taking more than 40 mg of methadone a day. For people with high doses, it’s recommended that they be reduced by 10 mg each week until they reach 40 mg. Once this dose is reached they can start reducing the amount by 5 mg each week until the individual is completely done with the drug.

A high-dose detox is done a bit differently in order to help people avoid withdrawal symptoms. Both forms of tapering will eventually result in the person no longer needing methadone, but the way the taper is determined is decided by medical professionals. This is another reason why it’s so important to go to an accredited facility that specializes in methadone detox in order to receive the best possible treatment.

Methadone Withdrawal

Methadone withdrawal is commonly referred to as the worst withdrawal experience due to how long it lasts. This is because methadone is a long-acting opioid meaning it stays in your system longer. Many individuals relate methadone withdrawal to feeling very similar to the flu. However, as time progresses, symptoms will persist in intensity. Withdrawal usually starts around 30 hours after last using methadone.

Common Methadone Withdrawal Symptoms

  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Cold or hot flashes
  • Sweating
  • Diarrhea
  • Upset stomach
  • Vomiting or nausea
  • Cramping muscles
  • Overall lack of energy
  • A combination of flu-like aches and pains
  • Irritability
  • Runny nose
  • Watery eyes
  • Mood swings

Methadone Withdrawal Timeline

Methadone withdrawal symptoms will typically start sometime between 12 to 48 hours after last taking methadone. People start experiencing flu-like symptoms such as fever and muscle aches and pains.

During the next 3 to 8 days people begin feeling intense methadone cravings as well as symptoms like nausea, trouble sleeping, anxiety, and mood swings. The flu-like symptoms will also peak during this time frame.

From days 9 to 15 the symptoms of methadone withdrawal should start to subside. However, it’s likely you’ll still be experiencing some physical symptoms. Other symptoms related to moods, like depression and anxiety will likely remain. Cravings for the drug are usually still pretty intense.

By the third week people typically still experience an overall lack of energy, difficulty sleeping, and continued methadone cravings. Many people will continue to experience PAWs (post-acute withdrawal symptoms) for up to 6 weeks. It’s not uncommon for someone to experience PAWs for years after methadone detox. These symptoms include depression, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. A rehab facility can help you in managing PAWs.

How Long Can Methadone Withdrawal Last?

Methadone withdrawal can last for years if you include post-acute withdrawal symptoms. However, most people only experience withdrawal symptoms for 3 weeks up to 6 months. In order to determine how long your symptoms will last, medical professionals will need to know to understand the following:

  • How long have you been using methadone?
  • How often are you taking methadone?
  • What is the method of consumption?
  • What is your current methadone dose?
  • How severe is your methadone addiction?
  • Your own biological factors (age, weight, gender)
  • Do you have any co-occurring medical conditions (underlying issues)?

If someone has been misusing methadone for a long period of time in high doses, they will likely suffer from withdrawal symptoms more than someone who has not. Similarly, biological factors like low weight and co-occurring mental health conditions can also increase the intensity of withdrawal symptoms. During the initial evaluation, medical professionals will determine the best course of treatment for inpatient methadone detox based on these factors. If you want to minimize your chances of experiencing withdrawal symptoms, you should seek professional detox programs.

What is Methadone? How is it Used in Addiction Treatment?

Methadone is known as a synthetic opioid agonist. It is commonly used to help people overcome opioid addiction, and if used properly it can do just that. Many addiction treatment facilities have had great success in prescribing methadone and overseeing its administration. It can help greatly with the detox process from other opioids like heroin and fentanyl. This is especially true with it is combined with a well-rounded addiction treatment program. However, methadone is still an opioid so there is the potential for abuse.

How Does Someone Get Addicted to Methadone?

If someone begins taking more methadone than what is prescribed or gains more than one prescription, addiction is very likely. It’s also possible that the individual can relapse to other opioids like heroin. However, if an individual follows a medication-assisted treatment plan utilizing methadone, as prescribed by a physician, they are less likely to become addicted.

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Overcoming Methadone Addiction

If you or someone you love is suffering from methadone addiction, the most important thing to do is seek treatment. You’ll likely need to start with a medical detox to overcome the physical dependence on methadone. This can last for a few weeks to a few months.

Once someone has successfully completed an inpatient methadone detox they should attend an addiction treatment program. There are two types of programs available, an inpatient program or an outpatient program. Both forms of treatment can be successful in helping someone overcome methadone addiction. Inpatient treatment means will you live at the facility, whereas outpatient treatment you will attend therapy and other programs during the day and go home in the evenings. The form of care that is best suited for you or your loved one will be recommended after a full evaluation and detox are completed.

Both forms of addiction treatment will include various forms of therapy, drug addiction education, and relapse prevention planning. Your or your loved ones’ specific treatment plan will be customized to address all underlying causes related to methadone addiction.

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Common Questions About Methadone

How Long Does Methadone Stay in Your System?

Methadone stays in your system for a longer period of time than most drugs since it’s a long-acting opioid. In your saliva and blood, it’s typically only detected for a few days. But, it can be detected in your urine for up to two weeks. In your hair, it’s detectable for up two months.

In most cases, your body will process all of the methadone in two to three weeks. However, if you have been using methadone for a long time in high doses, it can take much longer.

Do I Need Treatment for Methadone Addiction?

Yes. If you are suffering from methadone addiction you should absolutely seek an accredited addiction treatment program after attending an inpatient methadone detox. Attending detox is only the first step in getting the help you need. It will help your body overcome the physical dependence on methadone but it will not break your underlying causes of addiction. For this reason, attending a treatment facility is your best chance at long-term recovery from methadone.

Is Inpatient Methadone Detox Private?

Rehab and detox facilities are required by law to keep your information private. This includes information like your medical history, the specifications of your treatment plan, and any personal or revealing information related to you. It is possible for patients to have private information released to friends, family, or other medical professionals, but it requires specific written consent in order to do so.

In some inpatient detox or treatment facilities, patients may have a roommate during their stay. This depends on the facility you choose for treatment and their specific protocol.

Methadone Detox in Houston, Texas

If you’re looking to overcome methadone addiction, Magnolia City Detox is here to help. We offer inpatient methadone detox to help you break your dependence on this opioid drug. Our medical detox protocol includes a thorough evaluation and expert management of your withdrawal symptoms. Once detox is completed we also offer an accredited inpatient program to help people find long-lasting recovery from methadone.

Methadone Detox Center Near The Woodlands, Texas

Our methadone detox center is located in Conroe, Texas near Lake Conroe and The Woodlands, offering easy access to beautiful beaches, wildlife preserves, and serene parks. It is easily accessible for those who are looking for residential methadone detox in:

At Magnolia City Detox, you can find the help you need to recover from methadone addiction, or other forms of substance abuse such as alcohol and drug addiction. Our Texas treatment facility will help you find lasting recovery with dignity and grace. Contact us today to learn more about our approach to addiction treatment.

Dr. Olaniyi O. Osuntokun


Dr. Olaniyi O. Osuntokun is a Neurology & Psychiatry Specialist based in Conroe, Texas, and Lafayette, Indiana. He has extensive experience in treating Individuals with substance use disorders and addiction. He earned his medical degree from University of Ibadan College of Medicine and has been in practice for more than 20 years.

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