Florida Methadone Maintenance Drug Rehab Centers (38)

Florida Methadone Maintenance Drug Rehab Centers

Methadone is one of the most commonly used medications to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). It was the first medication approved by the FDA to help treat the condition and has since been an enduring clinical resource in helping to mitigate cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Florida recently expanded licensures for treatment providers to offer methadone maintenance therapy in response to rampant and escalating overdose deaths in the state. In August of 2017, the Department of Children and Families issued an emergency rule aimed at expediting the new licenses; however, methadone maintenance programs must be approved by SAMHSA.

How Does Methadone Maintenance Therapy Work?

Methadone works by adjusting neurobiological responses to pain. It reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms by delivering controlled and non-addictive amounts of an opioid to the brain and blocks the euphoric effects of opiate drugs such as heroin, morphine, and codeine, as well as semi-synthetic opioids such as oxycodone and hydrocodone. The drug is offered in pill or liquid form and is administered through specialized, certified, and approved clinics or treatment centers. Methadone maintenance therapy is overseen by an experienced and qualified medical professional, and the duration is contingent upon each patient’s individual progress and ongoing cravings. The relief effects of the drug last about four to eight hours.

Finding Florida Methadone Maintenance Drug Rehab Centers Near You

The methadone maintenance process begins by taking the drug under the close supervision of a prescribing physician. This can occur in a SAMHSA-approved treatment center or by an approved primary care physician. Eventually, after proven progress, discretion, and consistent compliance with their program, patients will be able to take the drug at home between visits to their treatment center or physician’s office.