The duration of methadone withdrawal depends on the individual and their history of methadone use. The methadone withdrawal symptoms can be mild to severe, lasting anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
If you or a loved one requires a methadone detox center, contact us at 866.931.9312 to learn about Evoke Wellness at Miramar’s substance use disorder treatment programs.
What Is Methadone?
Methadone is an opioid medication used to treat drug dependence and manage withdrawal symptoms. It belongs to a group of medicines called “opioid agonists,” which work by binding to receptors in the brain and reducing cravings for other opioids, such as heroin and prescription painkillers. Methadone provides slow, steady relief of opioid withdrawal symptoms over a while.
Many people have luck with medication-assisted therapy, or MAT, using methadone to come off of opioids. However, it can also be abused if one has never used opioids like painkillers or heroin. It can also be challenging to come off of during MAT, although it can be administered appropriately with doctor supervision.
Signs of Methadone Withdrawal
When methadone use is stopped or dramatically reduced, the body can go through methadone withdrawal. The severity and duration of methadone withdrawal depend on numerous factors, including the amount of methadone taken, how long methadone was used, the individual’s body chemistry, and other drugs being taken.
Common methadone withdrawal symptoms include:
- Sweating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle aches
- Agitation and irritability
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Cravings for methadone or other opioids
- Dilated pupils
It’s important to note that these symptoms’ severity, duration, and intensity depend on the length and strength of use.
How Long Does Methadone Withdrawal Last?
The duration of methadone withdrawal depends on the individual and their history of methadone use. Generally, methadone withdrawal symptoms can begin within 24 hours after the last dose is taken and peak at 2-3 days. Some individuals may experience methadone withdrawal symptoms lasting anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks. The most common methadone withdrawal symptoms usually last 1-2 weeks.
Like most drug withdrawals, there are three primary phases. These include:
- Acute withdrawal — During this stage, methadone withdrawal symptoms peak, lasting up to 10 days or longer, depending on the individual’s methadone use history.
- Protracted withdrawal — This refers to any symptoms that persist after the acute phase has passed. These could include insomnia, fatigue, depression, and cravings.
- Post-acute withdrawal — This is the final phase of methadone withdrawal, and these lingering symptoms can last anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks. The intensity of the symptoms in this phase will gradually lessen over time. If you or a loved one is struggling with methadone addiction, seek help immediately.
The best way to cope with methadone withdrawal is to seek professional help at a methadone detox center. You can return to living a healthier, substance-free life with the proper treatment and support.
Treatment for Methadone Withdrawal at Evoke Wellness Miramar
At Evoke Wellness at Miramar, we offer a comprehensive methadone detox program tailored to the individual’s needs. Our compassionate team of addiction specialists and medical professionals is available 24/7 to provide support and guidance throughout the methadone withdrawal process.
We believe in providing compassionate, holistic care that meets each patient on their terms. Our methadone detox program includes medication-assisted therapy, psychotherapy, and other evidence-based treatments to ensure a safe, effective methadone detox.
We provide the following treatments;
- Holistic therapy
- Meditative therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Mental health
- Methadone treatment
- Person-centered therapy
- Psychotherapy
- PTSD treatment program
- Relapse prevention therapy
- Suboxone treatment
- Trauma treatment
- Vivitrol treatment
- Yoga therapy
If you or a loved one requires help with methadone withdrawal, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us at 866.931.9312 for Evoke Wellness at Miramar today for more information.