Methadone Hydrochloride

Warning

Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse: Methadone hydrochloride tablets expose patients and other users to the risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death.

Contraindications

• Significant respiratory depression
• Acute or severe bronchial asthma
• Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction
• Hypersensitivity to methadone

Adverse Reactions

• Respiratory depression
• QT interval prolongation
• Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome
• Interactions with benzodiazepines and other CNS depressants

General Guidance

Titrate slowly, with dose increases no more frequent than every 3 to 5 days, and monitor for signs of opioid withdrawal or overdose.

Pregnancy

• Methadone hydrochloride tablets may be used in pregnancy, but with caution and close monitoring
• Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome is an expected outcome

Nursing Mothers

• Methadone is excreted in breast milk, and caution should be exercised when administering to nursing mothers

Pediatric Use

• The safety and effectiveness of methadone hydrochloride tablets have not been established in pediatric patients

Geriatric Use

• Elderly patients may have increased sensitivity to methadone, and dose selection should be cautious