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Methadone is an opioid drug. It causes both physical and psychological dependence, means both physical and psychological symptoms are observed during its withdrawal syndrome.

As you are off medicine for 5 weeks now so you have passed the critical withdrawal phase. Now you are having terrible leg pains. These are occurring due to long term withdrawal withdrawal syndrome due to methadone. It is also called as protracted withdrawal. As methadone is a good analgesic (pain killer) drug and due to continuous presence of methadone in blood our body get used to it. When it is suddenly stopped rebound increase in pain may occur.

Now how to manage this pain-

- For symptomatic relief you can use Non opioid analgesic drugs (Paracetamol, Ibuprofen) for some time. They will help in pain.

- Acamprosate is an anticraving drug, it has been found to be very effective in leg pains due to protracted withdrawal.

- Vitamin supplements containing Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamine) and Vitamin E are needed for proper relief.

- Relaxation therapy, Yoga, Deep Breathing exercises will help to divert your attention and help in improvement.

- In most of people in Protracted withdrawal the leg pains last for about 8-12 weeks only.

Hope I cleared your doubt, I will be happy to answer you again. If you are satisfied with answer kindly review.

Thanks

Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi MD
(Consultant Psychiatrist)

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