Opioid addiction is affecting millions of lives worldwide. And in just the U.S, over 100,000 people died from drug overdoses in previous years, and a portion of those deaths involved opioids. But there’s hope.
Methadone Maintenance Therapy (MMT) is a lifeline for many struggling with opioid and heroin addiction. It plays a crucial role in reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, offering a path towards stability and recovery. Yet, it’s also surrounded by misunderstandings and controversy.
In this blog, we’ll look at the good — the many benefits it offers — and the not-so-good — the challenges and concerns that come with it.
So, let’s get into it!
9 Benefits of Methadone Maintenance Therapy
Here are the benefits you can get from Methadone maintenance therapy.
Reduced Opioid Use, Cravings, and Withdrawal Symptoms
One good advantage of Methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) is it reduces cravings for opioids and the urge to use them. Methadone acts on the same opioid receptors in the brain as other opioids but in a gentler, more controlled way.
This prevents other opioids from causing intense highs and lows.
Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to the steady presence of methadone. That reduces the body’s dependence on other opioids, which leads to a decrease in cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Methadone treatment is effective in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, helping individuals to focus on other aspects of their recovery, such as therapy and building a healthier lifestyle.
Decreased Risk of Overdose
Another benefit is it reduces the risk of overdose for individuals struggling with opioid addiction. When taken as prescribed, methadone provides a stable dose of medication, which prevents the dangerous highs and lows associated with illicit opioid use. However, there is still a risk of methadone overdose, which can be reversed with naloxone.
This stability helps individuals avoid the risky behaviours often linked to seeking and using illicit drugs, such as sharing needles or using unknown substances.
Furthermore, because methadone occupies the opioid receptors in the brain, it blocks the effects of other opioids. This means that even if someone on MMT were to use other opioids, they wouldn’t experience the same intensity. That lowers the chance of overdose.
Improved Physical Health
By stabilising opioid use and reducing the chaotic cycle of addiction, MMT allows the body to heal. The consistent dosage of methadone helps regulate body functions that were disrupted by opioid abuse, such as sleep patterns, digestion, heart rate, and respiratory function.
Plus, individuals on MMT often experience a decrease in pain levels, particularly those who initially used opioids for pain management. This is because methadone itself has pain-relieving properties. Methadone provides pain relief from opiate withdrawal by changing how the brain and nervous system respond to pain. As their bodies recover and pain levels stabilise, they often find they have less need for additional pain medications.
Moreover, MMT reduces the transmission of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis C, which are common among people who inject drugs. So, by providing a safe and sterile environment for medication administration and encouraging safer practices, MMT helps individuals reduce the risk of contracting and spreading these diseases.
Enhanced Mental Health and Wellbeing
By easing the grip of opioid addiction, MMT opens the door to improved mental health and well-being. Patients taking methadone should be under the supervision of a physician to ensure safe and effective treatment. The consistent dosing of methadone helps regulate brain chemistry, which lifts mood, reduces anxiety, and improves emotional regulation.
With the chaos of addiction subsiding, individuals on MMT often find they have the mental clarity and emotional space to engage in therapy, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and rebuild their lives. This focus leads to increased self-esteem and reduced feelings of shame and guilt.
The structure and support provided by MMT programs also contribute to improved mental health. Regular appointments, counselling sessions, and interaction with healthcare providers create a community and belonging, which is incredibly valuable for those in recovery.
Increased Social Functioning
Methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) can help you get your social life back on track. Opioid treatment programs provide comprehensive treatment plans, including counselling and other support services. When you’re not constantly fighting cravings and the chaos of addiction, you’ll have more energy and focus on spending time with loved ones, making new friends, and doing things you enjoy.
Many people on MMT find they can return to work or school, which helps them financially and makes them feel more confident and accomplished. This stability leads to better relationships, improved communication, and a stronger community.
Plus, MMT programs often have counselling and support groups. These groups create a safe place for you to connect with others who understand your journey. This feeling of being understood and supported is a huge help, reducing loneliness and giving you hope for the future.
Reduced Criminal Activity
By providing a stable dose of medication, MMT helps to reduce the intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms that often drive individuals to engage in illegal activities to obtain opioids.
This, in turn, allows them to focus their energy on positive changes, such as pursuing employment or education. Also, MMT programs often incorporate counselling and support services that address the root causes of criminal behaviour, such as untreated trauma or mental health conditions.
Cost-Effectiveness
Methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) has proven to be a cost-effective approach to addressing the opioid crisis. First, it reduces the need for expensive emergency room visits and hospital stays due to overdoses and other complications of opioid addiction.
Secondly, it helps people get back to work or school, which means they can contribute to the economy instead of relying on social services.
MMT also reduces the spread of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis C, which are costly to treat. And because people in MMT are less likely to engage in criminal activity, there are savings in the criminal justice system as well.
Reduced Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome
Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) helps pregnant women who are struggling with opioid addiction to have healthier pregnancies and babies. When a pregnant woman uses opioids, it is harmful to her baby, sometimes causing the baby to go through withdrawal after birth (this is called neonatal abstinence syndrome, or NAS).
MMT helps by giving the mother a stable dose of methadone, which reduces her cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This helps keep both the mother and baby healthier during pregnancy.
Babies born to mothers on MMT may still experience some mild withdrawal symptoms, but they are usually less severe and easier to manage than babies exposed to other opioids. This means the baby may need less medication and a shorter hospital stay after birth.
Enhanced Treatment Retention
Methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) stands out for its ability to keep people engaged in treatment for longer periods because it eases the awful withdrawal symptoms and cravings that make it so hard to quit using opioids.
When those cravings and withdrawal symptoms are managed, people feel better and are more likely to keep coming to their appointments, taking their medication, and participating in counselling. This gives them the time and support they need to make changes and build a solid foundation for recovery.
Unlike some other treatments where people might drop out early due to the challenges of withdrawal or ongoing cravings, MMT provides a steady support system. This extended engagement allows for deeper healing, the development of coping skills, and the addressing of the root causes of addiction.
Controversies and Challenges of MMT
Here are the complexities and challenges that come with this treatment approach.
Stigma and Misconceptions
The first challenge that MMT faces is the stigma and misconceptions surrounding it. Some people wrongly believe that MMT replaces one addiction with another. This misconception leads to discrimination against those receiving treatment, which makes it difficult for them to access care and support.
MMT is a medically supervised treatment that aims to stabilize individuals and improve their overall well-being. It is not about getting high — it’s about providing a safe and effective alternative to illicit opioid use. Overcoming this stigma requires education and awareness to help people understand the true purpose and benefits of MMT.
Diversion and Illicit Use
While methadone is valuable in treating opioid addiction, it can sometimes be misused or diverted from its intended purpose. In some cases, individuals may sell or share their methadone, which leads to its use by people who are not enrolled in a treatment program.
This diversion contributes to the illicit drug market and poses risks to those who use methadone without medical supervision.
To minimize the risk of diversion, MMT programs have strict protocols in place, such as requiring patients to take their medication under observation and conducting regular urine drug screenings. However, these measures are not foolproof, and the potential for diversion remains challenging for MMT providers.
Side Effects, Risks, and Methadone Overdose
While methadone is generally safe when taken as prescribed, be aware of the side effects of methadone. Some people might experience drowsiness, constipation, or changes in their sex drive. In rare cases, there can be more serious side effects, such as breathing problems or allergic reactions.
Plus, methadone can interact with other medications, so be honest with your doctor about all the medications you’re taking. Regular check-ups and monitoring are essential to ensure that your methadone dose is appropriate and to address any side effects that may arise.
Like any medication, methadone carries some risks, but these can be minimized by working closely with your doctor and following their instructions. Open communication and regular monitoring are key to ensuring that methadone is a safe and effective treatment option.
Limited Access and Availability of Opioid Treatment Programs
Despite its proven effectiveness, methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) remains inaccessible to many who could benefit from it. Doctors must prescribe and closely monitor the use of methadone due to its potential for addiction or abuse. There are often long waiting lists for treatment, and the number of clinics offering MMT is limited. This leads to delays in receiving treatment, which is detrimental for individuals struggling with addiction.
Plus, there are regulatory barriers and restrictions on who can prescribe and dispense methadone. While intended to prevent misuse, these regulations can also create obstacles for those seeking treatment. Some individuals may face transportation challenges or lack the financial resources to access MMT clinics regularly.
These limitations in access and availability raise concerns about equity and fairness in addiction treatment. So, it’s crucial to address these barriers and expand access to MMT to
The Best Practices for MMT Success
Methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) is a lifeline, but use it the right way to get the most out of it. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
MMT isn’t just about taking medicine. It works best when you combine it with counselling and other support services. Talking to a therapist can help you understand the reasons behind your addiction, learn new coping skills, and build a healthier life.
Your Treatment, Your Way
Everyone’s experience with addiction is different, so your MMT plan should be designed to your needs. This means working with your doctor to find the right dose of methadone, address any other health issues you might have, and adjust your treatment as you progress in recovery.
Be Honest
Be open and honest with your doctor about your medication history, any other drugs you might be using, and any side effects you experience. This helps your doctor make the best decisions about your care.
Stick to the Plan
Consistency is key with MMT. Take your methadone exactly as prescribed, and don’t miss any appointments. This helps keep your treatment on track and reduces the risk of withdrawal or relapse.
Stay on Track
Regular check-ins with your doctor are essential to monitor your progress and ensure your treatment works. This involves urine tests to make sure you’re not using other drugs and to adjust your methadone dose if needed.
Extra Support for Special Needs
Some groups of people, like pregnant women or those with other health conditions, need additional support during MMT. It is generally safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women to take methadone, as it helps prevent withdrawal symptoms and reduces the risks of complications during pregnancy and at birth. Your doctor can help create a plan that meets your specific needs and keeps you and your baby healthy.
Community Matters in Substance Abuse Treatment
Connecting with others in recovery is important. MMT programs often have support groups where you can share your experiences, get advice, and build a network of people who understand what you’re going through.
Wrapping Up
Be aware that MMT is not a quick fix. Recovery is a journey, and there will be ups and downs along the way. But with commitment, support, and the right treatment plan, lasting recovery is possible.
Also, note that MMT is not for everyone. Some people may prefer other forms of treatment, such as buprenorphine or naltrexone. The best treatment option for you will depend on your circumstances and needs.
