A member asked:

What is the best and fastest way to wean off of methadone, i was using this for pain control.

10 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. William Newton answered

Specializes in Pain Management

May not be the same: The best and fastest may are not the same. The best would be a gradual weaning over time to limit possible withdrawal. This can be done fastest with inpatient detox or an outpatient Suboxone program. Good luck with your process. Discuss this with your pain management provider.

Answered 11/28/2017

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Very slowly: Methadone has a very long half life (15 to 150 hours), so i usually recommend one tablet per day per month. For instance, if you are on 4 tablets per day, you would go to 3 tablets per day for a month and then 2 tablets per day for a month and then 1 tablet per day then 1/2 tablet per day.

Answered 10/4/2016

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Dr. Mark Newman answered

Specializes in Anesthesiology

Methadone: Given the characteristics of Methadone pharmacologically and its typical utilization in a chronic pain setting, weaning a patient from Methadone should only be done by a licensed practitioner experienced in such treatment protocols. I would recommend a physician specialized in such matters in order to prevent withdrawl symptoms or other physiologic side effects.

Answered 7/24/2016

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