HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Taking Treatment For Heroin Addiction. What Is The Recommended Dosage Of Methadone?

I am starting treatment for a heroin addiction and would like to know the recommended dosage of Methadone used for this process. I have heard very bad things about methadone and do not want to be on it for the 3 to 6 months they suggest. Rather do a shorter step down/detox. So dar I have heard that anywhere from 20 to 40 mg is the standard dose to start with and then you can gradually step down from there. Is this accurate?
Fri, 31 May 2013
Report Abuse
Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello.......
Thanks for your query. I would like to complement you on your decision to quit heroin use. Methadone is the gold standard drug for detoxification and relapse prevention. It does have potential for respiratory depression at high doses and other general side effects of opioids like sedation. However, it is safe overall. The usual dosage is 20-60 mg/ day. The duration of detox and maintanence is at the discretion of your treating psychiatrist. Hope you are clear now. Wish you good health.
Regards
Dr Sundar
Substance use specialist
I find this answer helpful

 1 user finds this helpful
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Recent questions on Methadone maintenance


Loading Online Doctors....
Taking Treatment For Heroin Addiction. What Is The Recommended Dosage Of Methadone?

Hello....... Thanks for your query. I would like to complement you on your decision to quit heroin use. Methadone is the gold standard drug for detoxification and relapse prevention. It does have potential for respiratory depression at high doses and other general side effects of opioids like sedation. However, it is safe overall. The usual dosage is 20-60 mg/ day. The duration of detox and maintanence is at the discretion of your treating psychiatrist. Hope you are clear now. Wish you good health. Regards Dr Sundar Substance use specialist