IT’S IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND METHADONE AND ITS PLACE IN TREATING ADDICTION.
Methadone is a full agonist that can be used to help stabilize the brain and control cravings.
WHAT IS METHADONE?
Methadone is a medication used to treat opioid use disorder. It alleviates withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings for opioids, such as heroin and prescription painkillers. By taking methadone regularly, individuals can manage their addiction more effectively and work towards long-term recovery.
The drug acts as an agonist on the brain’s opioid receptors, relieving cravings and helping to block the effects of opioids. Methadone comes in pill, wafer, and liquid forms. However, depending on administrative codes in certain municipalities, methadone might only be available in oral, liquid doses. A dose lasts approximately four to eight hours, meaning individuals must take it more frequently than longer-lasting medications like buprenorphine. Taking it as prescribed and under the supervision of a clinician can prevent complications and promote recovery outcomes.
Over time, prescribing physicians reduce the dosage to help individuals taper off opioid usage while still receiving relief from withdrawal symptoms. Once patients start a methadone program, they should continue on the medication for at least one year. Individuals should never abruptly stop treatment, which may result in severe withdrawal symptoms. While methadone treatment doesn’t cure substance use disorders, it can provide a safe way for individuals to manage their addiction and take steps toward recovery.
Methadone Treatment Programs at BrightView
The BrightView centers that currently offer methadone include Akron OH, Asheboro NC, Attleboro MA, Canton OH, Chesapeake VA, Chillicothe OH, Colerain OH, Columbus East OH, Covington KY, Dayton OH, Easton MD, Erlanger KY, Georgetown OH, Harrisonburg VA, Kent OH, Lawrence MA, Lima OH, London KY, Louisville KY, Lynchburg VA, Mason OH, Maumee OH, Nicholasville KY, Ocean City MD, Paris KY, Portsmouth OH, Roanoke VA, Somerville MA, Willoughby OH, Youngstown OH, and Zanesville OH. However, many of our patients have previously attended methadone treatment programs elsewhere. When patients transfer to a BrightView addiction treatment center, except for the centers listed above, from a Methadone treatment center, they are medically assessed and transitioned to another medication option under the supervision of a waivered doctor.
At BrightView, we do our best to work around our patients’ busy schedules and many commitments, so we prefer medications like Suboxone and Vivitrol when appropriate. The Ohio Administrative Code requires that patients on a Methadone treatment plan are given their dose by a licensed provider daily, receiving a maximum of one dose to take home on holidays or Sundays if the clinic is closed.
Any addiction treatment medications should only be prescribed and taken within a comprehensive treatment plan. The drug provides neurological stability to minimize cravings, while individual and group therapy helps the patient begin healing. Social support and other wraparound services are crucial to long-term recovery. At BrightView, patients receive comprehensive care that can address the complex nature of recovery holistically and effectively.
METHADONE TREATMENT PROGRAM FAQS
How does methadone treatment work?
Methadone helps patients manage opioid use disorder by relieving withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings. It acts as a full opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors in the brain, but in a safe and controlled way. When taken as prescribed, methadone blocks the euphoric effects of opioids like heroin or fentanyl and allows patients to focus on recovery without the rollercoaster of withdrawal and cravings.
At BrightView, methadone is used as part of a holistic treatment plan that also includes individual and group therapy, peer support, and case management. This integrated approach addresses not only the physical aspects of opioid use disorder but also the emotional, social, and behavioral factors involved.
How long does someone stay on methadone?
The length of methadone treatment varies depending on the person. Clinical guidelines recommend that patients remain in treatment for at least 12 months to experience the full benefits. However, many individuals stay on methadone longer to support long-term recovery.
Dosage is regularly monitored and adjusted by a licensed provider. For some patients, a gradual tapering plan may be developed over time if clinically appropriate. Sudden discontinuation is not recommended, as it may lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and increased risk of relapse.
Do you have to go to a clinic to get methadone treatment? Can methadone be prescribed at home?
Yes, methadone must be dispensed through a federally certified opioid treatment program (OTP) and cannot be prescribed for home use in the same way other medications can. Patients typically need to visit a licensed clinic daily to receive their dose. Over time, and depending on treatment progress and program regulations, take-home doses may be granted.
For example, during the first 90 days of treatment, patients usually receive daily supervised dosing. If a patient meets specific criteria—such as consistent attendance, no illicit drug use, and stable home environment—they may qualify for limited take-home doses. According to SAMHSA guidelines, take-home doses increase gradually based on time in treatment and clinical stability.
If you’re interested in methadone treatment, you must begin with a comprehensive assessment at an OTP like the BrightView centers that provide this service. After the clinical evaluation, a licensed provider will create a treatment plan, and dosing will begin under supervision.
How much does a methadone clinic cost?
The cost of methadone treatment varies depending on insurance coverage and the services provided. At BrightView, we are committed to making treatment accessible to everyone. That’s why we accept Medicaid, Medicare, most major insurance plans, and Tricare with referral. We never turn patients away based on their ability to pay or insurance status.
Who is a good candidate for methadone treatment?
Methadone treatment may be appropriate for adults diagnosed with opioid use disorder who:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have struggled with opioid use for at least one year
- Are not currently benefiting from other forms of treatment (e.g., buprenorphine or naltrexone)
- Are willing to participate in regular clinic visits and comprehensive care
- Have no contraindications to methadone use (e.g., certain heart conditions)
Pregnant individuals and those with chronic pain may also be good candidates for methadone treatment under clinical supervision.
At BrightView, our care team conducts thorough evaluations to determine the best medication and treatment plan for each patient. If methadone is not the right fit, other FDA-approved options—such as buprenorphine/naloxone products (including Suboxone, Sublocade, Brixadi, and Subutex)—may be considered based on medical need and availability.
Get Medication Assisted Treatment at Brightview
At BrightView, we recognize the importance of providing MAT for those in need. Our team of professionals feels passionate about helping you through your journey to recovery. With our medication assisted treatment program, you will receive individualized care tailored to your needs with evidence-based treatments that have proven success rates. We have an extensive network of resources available so that you can access all the necessary support needed for your long-term sobriety goals. Call 888.501.9865 today, or fill out our online form to learn how we can help you achieve lasting recovery.
BRIGHTVIEW BY THE NUMBERS
Proactivity of Proper Healthcare Use Improves Dramatically
BrightView patients report a nearly 50% increase in engagement with regular medical providers (for example, primary care providers) after just 90 days in our program.
“It’s working for me.”
Within six months, unemployment among BrightView patients decreases by over 50%.
We treat our patients right.
The quality of our patients’ experience, proves that we respect them and treat each patient as an individual. When surveyed, our patients consistently rate their experience a 9 out of 10.
