What type of treatment is methadone used for?

Methadone is primarily used as a treatment for heroin addiction. It is a long-acting opioid that helps to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with opioid dependence, allowing individuals to stabilize their lives and engage more fully in rehabilitation efforts. By providing a controlled dose of medication, methadone can help individuals avoid the dangerous effects of illicit opioid use while working through their recovery process in a structured treatment environment. Its use is part of a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment that can include counseling and support services, further aiding in recovery from opioid dependence.

Other types of addiction, such as those to cocaine, alcohol, or stimulants, are treated with different medications and therapies tailored to the specific substance and the individual’s needs, necessitating distinct treatment protocols that differ significantly from those used for opioid dependence.