Expert: Jacqui - 12/22/2009

Question
QUESTION: HELLO,Jacqui.My name is Julia.Jacqui,help me please.How to use oral methadon by injection?But i have a big problem.This methadon was in the mouth.Tell me Jacqui,how do i clean this solution from saliva and bacteria?(as a free solution from saliva and bacteria are in it)-resonable manner.I know about filter,but i do not have access to such filter.Sorry ,my english is not very good.thanks before.Julia

ANSWER: Hi Julia,

Unfortunately there is no way to inject methadone safely if it has come out of someone else's mouth, especially without a filter.  There are bacteria like candida that exist in the mouth and these can lodge behind the eye causing vision problems.  Whilst a bacterial "wheel" filter is the best option, it doesn't render things 100% safe (as it can't filter viruses and there may be blood in someone's mouth with a blood borne virus in it).  I would suggest that, at the very least, you try to get a wheel filter.  

I don't know what else to say unfortunately.  I wish I could provide better harm reduction info, but this is difficult.  In general, methadone should be mixed with a lot of sterile water. My only other suggestion (and this one is not based on any evidence that I know of, just logic, so should not be considered to be a safe injecting technique) would be to boil the liquid.  Boiling will kill some bacteria, but you must make sure it is boiled for long enough (check the internet for boiling water for safer drinking).  This MAY minimise the problems, but it also may not.  

Finally, if you get any problems with:
- vision (blurred, black spots, etc)
- a temperature
- chest pain
- injecting related sores
- joint pain

Then you need to get medical advice ASAP.

Here is a link to the Eurasian Harm Reduction network.   They may have information about services in your area.

FInally, Julia, your English is fine!!!  Please stay in touch if you need anything.  I am going on vacation in two weeks, but will be back mid February.

I am so pleased to have been in touch with someone in Belarus!!!

Take care and please try to stay safe!

Jacqui

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: JACQUI,say me please,what dose was shouted oral methadone i can inject  for oral use i recive 125mg

Answer
Julia,

I am really sorry but I cannot say that it is okay to inject methadone that has come out of someone's mouth.  YOu are putting yourself at risk of a heart infection and serious eye problems.  

You are on a mid-to high dose of 125mg.  I don't know your tolderance, so firstly I would say please get hold of a wheel filter or get methadone that hasn't been in someone's mouth, and secondly, if you can do this, take a small amount first to see what happens.  Don't take 125 all at once.

Take care,

Jacqui