Nowadays, methadone is important mainly in the assistance of opioid dependent subjects. So-called methadone programs help reduce the dangers for heroin dependent individuals around the world. These programs yield manifold benefits: the treated subjetcs' general state of health improves, their risk of contracting the human immunodeficiency virus is reduced, they engage in fewer criminal activities, and they acquire a better socioeconomic status. Methadone is not devoid of problems; according to the available studies, however, it does not jeopardize the chances of complete withdrawal. The drug is probably most successful in the context of a comprehensive counselling program. Several specialists recommend establishing plasma levels when relatively high doses are administered.

Like other opioids, methadone is suitable for the treatment of severe pain, e.g. in cancer patients. In comparison with morphine it has the advantages of a longer-lasting effect and a better availability after oral administration. However, it is difficult to find the correct (efficacious and tolerated) methadone dose. According to several studies, it is also suited for perioperative analgesia if long-lasting pain is expected.

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