Expert: Dr.Paul Skett - 12/1/2010

Question
I take methadone for MS-related pain, and because it works very well, I rarely miss a dose. However, a new physician has just accused me of abusing the drug, claiming that a urinalysis indicated "no methadone present." I understand that the pH of urine can affect reported methadone levels. I had a severe UTI at the time of the urinalysis. Would that affect the pH of my urine? If so, would it have changed the pH enough to have affected the methadone level?

Answer
Hi, Marcia,

Thanks for your question.

Yes, a UTI can significantly affect urinary pH and methadone excretion is significantly affected by urinary pH. Actually they should not have taken a urine sample for drug analysis whilst you had a severe UTI - ask them to do another one now the infection has gone and see what it says.

I am sure you know how to take your medication to control your pain - it is one of the keys to successful pain management.

Best wishes,

Paul