Possible side effects of Methadone from the FDA

Partial listing of methadone's side effects include the following:

Methadone can cause life threatening breathing and heart problems which can lead to death. Call a doctor right away if you:

have trouble breathing

have extreme drowsiness and breathing slows down

have slow shallow breathing (little chest movement with breathing)

fast or slowed heartbeat

feel faint, very dizzy, confused, have palpitations (irregular heart beat) or any other unusual symptoms

These can be symptoms that you have taken too much (overdose of) Methadone, or the dose is too high for you. They can also be symptoms of a serious heart reaction. These symptoms can lead to serious problems or death if not treated right away.

Methadone can cause your blood pressure to drop. This can make you feel dizzy if you get up too fast from sitting or lying down.

Methadone can cause physical dependence. Do not stop taking Methadone or any other opioid without first talking to your doctor. You could become sick with uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms because your body has become used to these medicines. Talk to your doctor about slowly stopping Methadone to avoid getting sick with withdrawal symptoms. Physical dependency is not the same as drug addiction.

For patients using Methadone for pain treatment, there is a chance of abuse or addiction with Methadone. The chance is higher if you are or have been addicted to or abused other medicines, street drugs, or alcohol, or if you have a history of mental problems. Some common side effects of Methadone are lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting and sweating. Other side effects include weakness, headache, constipation, itching, and dry mouth.

Heart Attack

FDA Overdose Warning: Methadone Can Cause Heart Attack and Death
Overdose risk includes heart attack in those taking methadone for pain

Patients

Patients Information on Methadone and Pain Management from the FDA
Patients should be aware of the risks to taking methadone for pain

Methadone

FDA: Taking Methadone May Result in Death and Dangerous Side Effects
Treatment of pain with methadone can be deadly--Drug Lawyers

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