Methadone
- Oral / IVMethadoneDolophineUsed for long-term treatment of opioid addiction
Mechanism of Action
- Acts on opioid receptors (δ, κ and μ) and nociceptin orphanin FQ (NOF) receptors on neuronal cell membranes within the thalamus, diencephalon, midbrain and medulla, resulting in reduced neurotransmitter release.
Clinical Use
Indications
- Opioid addiction
- Adverse Effects
- Nausea / vomiting
- Constipation
- Sedation
- Respiratory depression
- Diaphoresis
- Delirium
- Hypersensitivity - bronchospasm, urticaria
- Bradycardia
- Tolerance
- Dependence
- Hypogonadism