Most insurance plans will cover either all or a portion of the treatment.
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SUD treatment executive, national news contributor & keynote speaker.
Navigation:
- Overview
- Methadone Withdrawal Symptoms
- How Long Does Methadone Detox Take?
- Treating Methadone Withdrawal and Addiction
- Find Rehabs That Offer Methadone Detoxification
Overview
Methadone has emerged as one of the most effective treatments for ongoing opioid withdrawal symptoms and is a core pillar of medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Sometimes, however, patients who rely on methadone for ongoing withdrawal management end up needing detox for methadone itself. It is important to seek methadone detox assistance from a medical professional who can help you manage your symptoms and intervene in the event of a medical emergency.
Methadone Withdrawal Symptoms
While the risk of methadone dependency is comparatively limited due to the controlled nature of its distribution, some patients experience physical and psychological side effects, and some even develop dependency.
Some of the more common symptoms of methadone withdrawal include:
- Fever and chills
- Flu-like symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sweating
- Stomach ache
- Depressed or anxious mood
- Moderate to severe cravings
Users may also experience hallucinations, paranoia, and other psychological symptoms, depending on how intense their withdrawal is.
How Long Does Methadone Detox Take?
The exact withdrawal timeline for methadone varies based on how long patients have been taking the drug, how much they’ve been taking, and other related medical factors. On average, however, it can take around three to six weeks of moderate symptoms to get through the process. Methadone can stay in the system for up to three days, and withdrawal symptoms can emerge a day after the last dose.
The average methadone withdrawal timeline is as follows:
- First Week – Cravings intensify, and patients may begin to experience psychological symptoms in addition to physical effects.
- First Two Days – Physical symptoms begin to develop about a day after methadone leaves the system.
- Second Week – Symptoms may begin to peak and lessen, but some may still persist, particularly body aches and intestinal distress. Cravings will likely continue as well.
- Weeks Three to Six – Symptoms and cravings will gradually subside, but patients continue to experience post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS). Your doctor can help you manage these symptoms as they emerge.
Treating Methadone Withdrawal and Addiction
It’s important to seek methadone detox assistance from a medical professional who can help you manage your symptoms and intervene in the event of a medical emergency. If methadone withdrawal has occurred as the result of addiction or dependency, you or your loved one should seek help from a treatment center that can help you manage and overcome your dependency.
Find Rehabs That Offer Methadone Detoxification
Use our directory to find rehab centers that provide safe and professional methadone detoxification. These facilities offer medical supervision, support, and resources to help you or your loved one manage withdrawal symptoms and begin the recovery journey with the right level of care.
