How and when to take methadone

Methadone for heroin dependency usually comes as a green liquid that you swallow once a day.

It's best to swallow the medicine in one go. You can have a drink of water afterwards if you like.

How long to take it for

If you're taking methadone for maintenance therapy, you'll usually take it long term, as a substitute for heroin.

If you're taking it for detox, your dose will gradually be reduced until you do not need to take it anymore. This usually takes up to 12 weeks. It can sometimes be quicker, for example if you're detoxing in hospital or residential rehab.

You will stay on methadone until you decide to come off it. When you're ready to do this, your key worker will help you to reduce your dose of methadone gradually.

Stopping methadone

It's important not to stop taking methadone suddenly or without talking to your GP or prescriber first.

If you stop taking your methadone suddenly, you'll have withdrawal symptoms. These include feeling restless or anxious, a runny nose, sweating, feeling or being sick, diarrhoea and muscle cramps.

If you want to stop taking methadone, you'll need to make a new treatment plan. Your GP, prescriber or key worker will help you to reduce your dose very gradually. This is to help prevent withdrawal symptoms.