Biology Disease
Drugs and Medicines

Drug Name Methadone HCl oral

Methadone HCl oral Drug Category METHADONE - DISPERSIBLE TABLET

Methadone HCl oral Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. METHADONE - DISPERSIBLE TABLET (METH-uh-doan) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Methadose WARNING: Methadone is to be taken by mouth only. It must not be injected. Methadone is a synthetic narcotic. Patients who are physically dependent on narcotics will go through withdrawal syndrome if given the usual dose of a narcotic antagonist (e.g., naloxone). If a narcotic antagonist must be given, the dose must be smaller than the usual dose and it must be given with extreme care. USES: This medication is a narcotic pain reliever and is used for severe pain. It is also used in the treatment of narcotic addiction as part of an approved program. Methadone is a potent narcotic substance. It can cause serious side effects and toxic reactions if used by someone other than the person for whom it is prescribed. Do not share this medication with others. HOW TO USE: Methadone dispersible tablets must be dissolved in a glass of water before drinking. Take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for a long period of time, do not suddenly stop using this without first consulting your doctor. When used for extended periods for pain relief, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Consult your doctor if the medication is not working well. For narcotic addiction the dose will be gradually reduced. Be sure to follow dosing instructions closely. SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, blurred vision, drowsiness, constipation, dizziness or lightheadedness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop: a rapid heart rate, fainting, breathing difficulties, skin rash, mood changes, irritability, anxiety, hallucinations, mental confusion, nervousness, tremors, seizures. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: asthma or breathing disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, head injury, seizure disorder, depression, drug dependency, allergies (especially drug allergies). To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Avoid intake of alcoholic beverages because it may intensify these effects. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness if this medication makes you drowsy or dizzy. The elderly may be more sensitive to the effects of methadone. Use with caution. Children may be more sensitive to the effects of methadone. Use with caution. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication is excreted into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription medication you may use, including drugs that make you drowsy such as: antidepressants, anti-seizure medication, narcotic pain relievers, sleeping pills, sedatives, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Many over-the-counter cough-and-cold medicines contain antihistamines. If you are uncertain your cough/cold medicines contain antihistamines, ask your pharmacist. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include cold and clammy skin, low body temperature, slowed breathing, slowed heartbeat, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, deep sleep, and loss of consciousness. NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.