Drug Therapy For Heroin Dependence Flashcards
What is methadone?
Methadone is an opiate, like heroin or morphine but it cannot be injected so must be taken orally.
How does methadone reduce withdrawal symptoms?
Methadone is a synthetic opiate which replaces heroin at the synapses. Methadone therefore reduces withdrawal symptoms of heroin users because it occupies the user’s opiate receptors.
Why is it less dangerous than heroin?
Because it is given orally rather than injected it is less dangerous than heroin
How long does it lasts?
Methadone also last longer (about 24 hours) than heroin therefore one daily dose can avoid the fluctuations experienced with heroin
How does methadone make injecting less desirable?
Methadone also partially blocks the opiate rush making injecting less desirable.
What happens during and after an assessment?
After assessment which would include determining the level of methadone needed, the addict must visit a pharmacy (or clinic) to be given the required dose to drink under supervision.
What happens when the addict is deemed trustworthy?
Often when the addict is deemed to be trustworthy they are allowed to take some advance doses home to self administer.
What happens once the treatment has stabilised?
Once the treatment has stabilised a process of detoxification is started.
What does detoxification involve?
This involves slowly decreasing the amount of methadone enabling the addict to cope with reduced intake without experiencing withdrawal
When are medical checks taken and what do these include?
Medical checks are usually undertaken at least once every three months and these include monitoring the level and stability of the addiction.
What is also taken alongside the medical checks?
Urine tests to check that heroin and other drugs are not being taken.
