I started thinking about this cause I’m currently going through kratom withdrawal myself, which is an opioid receptor agonist. I’m basically going through a very mild version of opioid withdrawal, which is certainly manageable, but not pleasant, with its flu-like symptoms.

So, opioid use disorder used to be (and still is) a huge problem in some countries. The stronger and commonly abused opioids, like heroin, morphine and fentanyl, as I understand it, are extremely addicting, but I’m no expert on this subject.

What I don’t get tho…is for opioid use disorder, doctors prescribe methadone? Another synthetic opioid? Why? I’m genuinely curious.
From a quick Wikipedia read, it seems that methadone does cause addiction itself and withdrawal is actually longer than other opioids, that are used recreationally. Are the withdrawal symptoms less severe? Is it an effective form of treatment? I really do not know and I’m quite curious.

If someone had personal experience to share, that would probably be best.
But my question is basically: Methadone? Why the fuck do they prescribe that for opioid use disorder?

Sorry for the stupid question, I’m not very well educated on this subject and also really curious.

  • litchralee@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
    6·
    5 days ago

    My pharmacology knowledge is basically non-existent, but I understand two things: 1) clinical addiction is a physiological dependency and can only be effectively treated through physiological means, and 2) in general, step-down treatment is a valid and more effective approach than total withdrawal.

    Those two points taken together, I believe methadone scratches the same physiological itch that other opioids do, but without as many side effects. And if those side effects are more biological (eg causes vomiting or high blood pressure; idk) than physiological, then a treatment plan can include conventional medications to treat those side effects. Overall, the complex problem of opioid treatment is transformed into a smaller, manageable problem, which doctors know how to tackle.

    Is it not-great that methadone is still in the family of opioids? Yes, but my concern is more about availability in some countries: in places that heavily restrict all opioids without regard for therapeutic uses, this can result in the unavailability of methadone to treat opioid addiction, something that otherwise has a wealth of research supporting its use for that purpose.

    • Miisha ♀️@lemmy.blahaj.zoneOPEnglish
      5·
      5 days ago

      I believe methadone scratches the same physiological itch that other opioids do, but without as many side effects

      Overall, the complex problem of opioid treatment is transformed into a smaller, manageable problem, which doctors know how to tackle.

      I see…that actually makes a lot of sense and it’s well-put. I guess I’m kinda starting to get it…
      Thanks!