Methadose
(methadone)
Treats severe pain or drug dependence.
Our bottom line
Methadose (methadone) is a cheap and effective treatment for severe chronic pain, but has serious risks for fatal overdose and drug dependence.
- Drug class: Pain
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (methadone)
Upsides
- Available as a cheap, generic version.
- One of the stronger opioid medicines for treatment of severe pain.
- Can also be used to treat opioid dependence as part of a complete recovery program.
Sign up and get Pill Talk, the latest in health & medicine news from Iodine
What to expect from methadone, on one page
Download Fact SheetDownsides
- Methadose (methadone) can cause slowed breathing, coma, and death from overdose, especially if mixed with alcohol, sleeping pills, or muscle relaxants.
- Constipation is a common side effect of Methadose (methadone) and you might need laxatives or stool softeners.
- Not a good option for short-term pain relief.
Sign up and get Pill Talk, the latest in health & medicine news from Iodine
What to expect from methadone, on one page
Download Fact SheetMethadose (methadone) is an opioid (narcotic), which acts on the brain to lower your perception of pain.
- Drug class: Pain
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (methadone)
Used for
- Moderate to severe pain
- Opioid dependence
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Dissolving tablet
- Liquid
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.
Pay as low as$152.38Retail priceRetail priceLearn more- CostcoGet free coupon$154.60
- Kroger PharmacyGet free coupon$158.95
- Medicine ShoppeGet free coupon$158.95
What to expect when you take Methadose (methadone) for Pain management
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Full effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Slowed breathing (respiratory depression)
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Slow heartbeat
Side effect rates for Methadose (methadone)
Risks and Warnings for Methadose (methadone)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › Start of treatment
- › Age 65 or greater
- › Dose changes and higher doses
Taking too much Methadose (methadone) can cause irregular or slow breathing that can put you in a coma. Don't take more than what your doctor prescribes. Be aware of any irregularities in your breathing, especially after a change in dose. If you have any shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, dial 911 immediately.
This is a black box warning. The FDA requires this warning when there is a significant risk of serious or life-threatening effects that anyone taking the drug should consider.
Common concerns from people taking Methadose (methadone)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?- Worth itLow hassleReviewed methadoneon 2/25/2018Best narcotic available for chronic pain54WomanTwo years or moreWould rather not say