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by Answerbag Staff on October 27th, 2009

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Can one go insane on methadone detox?

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  • by Michael Wolfe on October 27th, 2009

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    Great Answer

    Professionally Researched. (What's this?)

    Methadone is a synthetic opioid commonly used by those trying to ween themselves off heroin, whose effects it partially mimics. While those who use methadone during heroin detoxification can expect some side effects, insanity is not reported to be among them.

    Function

    Methadone is also commonly used an an analgesic to relieve pain. According to "The Treatment of Opioid Dependence," this can cause some sedation during early use. The effect does not last, however, and should not be confused with a permanent debilitating mental condition.

    Effects

    According to "The Side Effects of Drugs," by Jeffrey Aronson, neurological side effects of methadone can include episodic memory deficits, temporary movement disorders and some spasticity, but no permanent cognitive disorders, including insanity.

    Misconceptions

    There has been some misconception that methadone causes hallucinations. According to the Consumers Union, in a study of 207 methadone patients, 17 reported hallucinations. However, the union also reports that study's methology was criticized and no independent verification has been made of the claims.

    Expert Insight

    Aronson, the Consumers Union and the authors of "The Treatment of Opioid Dependence" all conclude that, while methadone can cause several neurological side effects, it does not cause insanity in any form.

    Benefits

    According to "The Treatment of Opioid Dependence," most people who use methadone to ween themselves off heroin are successful, at least temporarily.

    Source:

    "Side Effects of Drugs: Annual 26;" Jeffrey K. Aronson; 2003

    "The Treatment of Opioid Dependence;" Eric C. Strain, Maxine L. Stitzer; 2005

    Consumers Union Report

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  • by WIZARDGLICK2010 on November 28th, 2010

    WIZARDGLICK2010

    MY FIRST RESPONSE HOWEVER IS A QUESTION: ARE YOU IN DETOX TO DETOX FROM METHADONE? OR ARE YOU TRYING TO DETOX FROM HEROIN USING METHADONE?
    INVARIABLY MY ANSWER IS THIS: NO YOU CANNOT GO INSANE FROM A DETOX USING METHADONE. NOR CAN YOU GO INSANE IF YOU ARE TRYING TO DETOX FROM METHADONE. OR HEROIN, METH, COCAINE,PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS,OR EVEN MARIJUANA!! BUT I CAN TELL YOU FROM EXPERIENCE THAT IT MAY FEEL AS THOUGH YOU ARE LOSING YOUR MIND OR EVEN FEEL AS IF YOU ARE DYING DURING SUCH A DETOX. BUT SINCE THESE ARE PHYSICAL WITHDRAWALS AND NOT ACTUALLY MENTAL THERE IS NO DANGER OF A SUDDEN PSYCHOSIS DEVELOPING. BUT IF OTHER PEOPLE (BESIDES THOSE WHO MAY BE CARING FOR YOU MEDICALLY DURING THE DETOX) ARE UNFORTUNATE ENOUGH TO HAVE TO WITNESS THIS BRUTAL SCENE, THEY MAY IN FACT PERCEIVE YOU AS SOMEONE WHO HAS LOST THEIR MIND!!!

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