METHADONE CONCENTRATE - ORAL (Methadose) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

methadone concentrate - oral, Methadose (cont.)

USES: This medication is used to treat addiction to narcotic drugs (such as heroin) as part of an approved treatment program. Methadone belongs to a class of drugs known as narcotic (opiate) analgesics. It helps prevent withdrawal symptoms caused by stopping other narcotic drugs.OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.This drug may also be used to treat moderate to severe pain.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using methadone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. You may take this drug with or without food. If you have nausea, it may help to take this drug with food. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to decrease nausea (such as lying down for 1 to 2 hours with as little head movement as possible).Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Before taking, mix the dose in at least 1 ounce (30 milliliters) of water or other liquid as directed. Drink all of the mixture immediately. Do not prepare a supply in advance. Do not inject this medication.The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.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, watering eyes, runny nose, nausea, sweating, muscle aches) 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. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.This medication may rarely cause abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction). This risk may be increased if you have abused alcohol or drugs in the past. Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lessen the risk of addiction. Stopping methadone maintenance treatment has a high risk of return to narcotic drug abuse.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.