METHADONE

 
Names

• Meth
• Linctus
• Physeptone

Description

• Methadone is a white, crystalline powder
• Methadone liquid mixture can be different colours depending on how the pharmacist has made it

Use

• Methadone can be prepared as a medicine, tablet, in liquid form or in ampoules for injection
• Methadone is a prescribed drug, supply without a prescription is illegal
• Doctors try not to prescribe tablets or ampoules because they are at risk of illicit sales

Effects

• A 'high' which is less intense but longer lasting than heroin
• Methadone causes slower, shallower breathing and drowsiness
• It causes a reduction in physical pain
• Overdose can be fatal (lead to death) especially if mixed with other depressant drugs such as alcohol and tranquillisers

Risks

• Methadone is addictive
• Methadone users usually get constipation and can have difficulty in passing urine
• Methadone reduces energy and leaves a heavy feeling in the users arms and legs
• Methadone can remove the desire to have sex and may cause men to lose the ability to get an erection

Law

• It is only legal to possess methadone with a prescription
• Possession of methadone without a prescription carries a maximum 7 year prison sentence and an unlimited fine
• Supplying methadone (including giving some to a friend) is life imprisonment and an unlimited fine.