Deaths occur more frequently at the beginning of treatment in methadone programs; they are usually caused by excessive doses (i.e. erroneously estimated tolerance) and they are affected by concomitant diseases (hepatitis, pneumonia).

Methadone generally entails the entire spectrum of opioid side-effects, including the development of tolerance and physical and psychological dependence.

Respiratory depressions are dangerous. The released histamines can cause hypotension or bronchospasms. Other symptoms are: constipation, nausea or vomiting, sedation, vertigo and edema. Euphoria is considered a positive effect in the context of methadone programs (reduced craving for illegal substances).

Methadone: Interactions

Enzyme inducers such as phenytoin and rifampicin can reduce the effect of methadone so significantly that withdrawal symptoms may occur. Other central nervous system depressors (e.g. alcohol), maybe even enzyme inhibitors, reinforce the central sedative effect of methadone.

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