Questions and Answers
What is methadone commonly used to treat?
What is the generic name for methadone?
methadone
Which of the following is NOT a brand name for methadone?
What classification does methadone fall under?
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Methadone reduces withdrawal symptoms in people addicted to ______.
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Methadone can cause addiction, overdose, or death.
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What are some side effects of methadone?
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What is the initial dose of methadone for opioid non-tolerant patients?
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What is the maximum initial dose of methadone for detoxification?
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What is the commonly associated target range for effective methadone therapy?
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Study Notes
Methadone Overview
- Methadone is an opioid, also classified as a narcotic, primarily used to treat moderate to severe pain and narcotic addiction.
General Information
- Generic name: methadone (pronounced METH a done).
- Brand names include Dolophine, Methadose, Methadose Sugar-Free, and Diskets.
Classification
- Classified as an opioid analgesic.
Mechanism of Action
- Alleviates withdrawal symptoms for individuals dependent on heroin or other opioids without inducing a "high."
- Utilized in pain relief, detoxification, and maintenance programs for drug addiction.
- Dispensed exclusively through certified pharmacies.
Safety Precautions
- Contraindicated in individuals with severe asthma, respiratory issues, or gastrointestinal blockages.
- Methadone misuse can lead to addiction, overdose, or death, particularly for those using the drug without a prescription.
Side Effects
- Potential side effects include drowsiness, sedation, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, respiratory depression, constipation, cramps, orthostatic hypotension, confusion, headache, rash, arrhythmias, syncope, agitation, diaphoresis, hypokalemia, and pulmonary edema.
Dosage Information
- Available strengths: 5 mg, 10 mg, 10 mg/mL, 40 mg, and various mixtures.
- For opioid non-tolerant adults, the initial parenteral dose is 2.5 mg to 10 mg IV every 8 to 12 hours.
- Maintenance doses require careful titration to avoid overdose, with consideration of the patient's opioid tolerance.
Opiate Withdrawal Treatment
- Administered under strict guidelines for detoxification and maintenance of opioid dependence per 42 CFR Section 8.12.
- The starting dose for detoxification is between 20 to 30 mg orally on day one, with possible increments if withdrawal symptoms persist.
Titration and Maintenance of Opioid Dependence
- Doses should prevent withdrawal and cravings while moderating euphoric effects.
- Targeted therapeutic range is 80 to 120 mg orally per day.
- Tapering off methadone should be gradual, with reductions of less than 10% every 10 to 14 days.
Conversion of Doses
- When switching from oral to parenteral methadone, a 2:1 conversion ratio is recommended (e.g., 10 mg oral to 5 mg parenteral).
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Description
Test your knowledge on methadone, an important opioid medication. This quiz covers its definitions, brand names, classifications, and mechanisms of action. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals looking to memorize key information about methadone.
