Expert: Peter L. - 1/13/2010

Question
hi i have been on methadone for six years and recently got myself down to 4mg a day, eight days ago i decided to come off it. its the worse thing i have ever been through, on my fifth day i was really ill i thought i was dying, i found a empty bottle of methadone and it had about 2mg in it an i took it, that was three days ago so what i want to know is will my detox start all over again, i would of been on my eigth day today if i hadnt of took that 2mg five days in, i regret it now.
thanks

Answer
Hi Sofie,

You've been on methadone quite a while and therefore the detox will be hard. Methadone detox is universally a difficult experience; I know of no one who has had an easy time of it.  I would recommend you consult with the physician at your methadone program.  

Getting down to the single digits is when people seem to have the most trouble.  As you can tell, methadone is highly addictive, and your discomfort indicates the degree to which this is so.  

Please work with your nurses and physician, as there may be physical health concerns that have to be monitored.  This is a common enough situation so they should be able to properly advise you.

Best wishes,
Peter