Facts & Myths
Methadone causes you to gain weight
What is myth. Some patients do report that they enjoy the taste of their food a lot better now that they have eliminated drug use as the center of their lives, and so they may actually be eating more. But in no way does methadone influence a patient's weight.
True or false? Methadone rots your teeth
What is False. There has been no evidence to substantiate this claim.
Methadone is a ______ depressant
Central Nervous System
What does AMHA stand for?
Addiction Medicine and Heath Advocates
Lower doses of methadone are better
What is Myth. An individual's methadone dose depends on many factors including the amount of opioids the person was using, their tolerance and body chemistry. Sometimes, higher doses are required to block the effects of opioids and relieve withdrawal symptoms
True or False? Methadone is poorly absorbed by the body
What is False. It takes roughly 7 minutes for the dose to fully be digested.
Harm reduction approaches such as MMT impact the community by______?
Lowering rates of crime, lowering rates of HIV/Hep C, improved pregnancy outcomes, reduced risk of overdose.
Who can be a part of your treatment at AMHA?
Any support person (parent, child, sibling, significant other, sponsor, priest, friend, etc.)
Methadone causes drowsiness and sedation
What is Myth. All people feel drowsy or tired at times. Patients on a stabilized dose of methadone will not feel any more drowsy or sedated than normal people feel during the day.
True or False? Methadone weakens your bones.
False. Methadone in no way causes harm to the skeletal structure. The discomfort is probably a mild withdrawal symptom and may be eased by adjusting the patient’s dose of methadone.
One (blocking) dose of methadone should last for ____?
24- 36 hours
True or False: AMHA just addresses my substance use.
False. While we do not have a psychiatrist on staff, all of our counselors are qualified to address mental health concerns. We also refer clients for their case management needs such as physical, dental, and mental health.
Methadone does not damage your body
What is Fact. People have been taking methadone for more than 30 years, and there has been no evidence that long-term use causes any physical damage whatsoever.
True or False? Treatment and recovery are just about abstaining from drug use
What is False. Treatment and recovery are about improving in all areas of your life: interpersonal relationships, ability to hold employment, stabilizing mental health, etc.
Side effects of methadone include:
Sweating and constipation.
True or False: AMHA offers babysitting services.
True. We provide babysitting services available to all patients.