Methadone Maintenance Program (MMP)

Methadone is an FDA-approved medication used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD) and manage chronic pain. It is a long-acting synthetic opioid that works by helping to relieve withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings in individuals who are dependent on opioids. Methadone helps individuals achieve and sustain recovery and to reclaim active and meaningful lives. Methadone is one component of a comprehensive treatment plan, which includes counseling and other behavioral health therapies to provide individuals with a whole-person approach.

Reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms: Methadone prevents the intense discomfort of opioid withdrawal and reduces cravings that can lead to relapse.

Improved stability: It allows individuals to regain a sense of normalcy, reducing the disruptive effects of opioid addiction on their daily lives.

Safer alternative: Methadone helps individuals avoid the dangerous effects of illicit drug use (such as overdose), providing a more controlled and supervised method for managing addiction.

Retention in treatment: Methadone can increase the likelihood that individuals will remain in treatment and engage in therapy, which is essential for long-term recovery.

Methadone is considered a safe long-term treatment. When used in a regulated and supervised environment, it can significantly improve the quality of life for people struggling with opioid addiction and help reduce the risks associated with illicit opioid use. Methadone is considered an effective treatment, with several key benefits:

• Reduction of cravings and withdrawal symptoms
• Improved treatment retention
• Decreased illicit drug use
• Reduction in criminal activity
• Improved quality of life
• Effectiveness in pain management

Common side effects of methadone include:

• Restlessness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Slow breathing
• Itchy skin
• Heavy sweating
• Constipation
• Decreased libido