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methadone - injection, Dolophine

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GENERIC NAME: METHADONE - INJECTION (METH-a-done)

BRAND NAME(S): Dolophine

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Methadone has caused very serious (possibly fatal) breathing and heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, torsades de pointes). These problems are more likely to occur when this medication is first started or when the dose is increased. Breathing problems may occur a while after you receive the dose (for example, more than 8 hours later). Carefully follow your doctor's directions on how to use the medication. Even if this medication is not working well, do not increase your dose or use this medication more often than prescribed without first consulting your doctor. It may sometimes take 3 to 5 days before you get the full benefit of pain relief from this medication. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms of breathing and heart rhythm problems, such as slow/shallow breathing, fast/irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, or fainting.

USES: This medication is used to treat moderate to severe pain. Methadone is a narcotic (opiate-type) medication. It acts on certain centers in the brain to relieve pain.This medication is also used to treat addiction to narcotic drugs (such as heroin) as part of an approved treatment program. It helps prevent withdrawal symptoms caused by stopping other opiate-type narcotics.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet that may be provided by your pharmacist before you start using methadone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.This medication is given by injection into a vein, into a muscle, or under the skin. Use it exactly as directed by your doctor. Read and learn all of the manufacturer's instructions for preparation and use. If you have any questions about using this medication properly, consult your doctor or pharmacist.The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. If this medication is given into a muscle or under the skin, it is important to change the location of the injection site with each dose to avoid problem areas under the skin.Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist for more details.If nausea occurs, consult your doctor or pharmacist for ways to decrease it (such as taking antihistamines, lying down for 1 to 2 hours with as little head movement as possible).If you are using this medication for pain, remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has worsened, the medication may not work as well.This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as restlessness, watery eyes, widened pupils, sweating, runny nose) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.When this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well. Your doctor may need to increase your dose or change your medication. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.Rarely, abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction) is possible with this medication. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently, or use it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

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