What is it: Methadone hydrochloride is a synthetic opioid analgesic with multiple actions similar to those of morphine.

Use: Treating moderate to severe pain that is not relieved by other pain medicines. It is also used in treating narcotic addiction as part of a treatment program. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Side Effects:. Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); confusion; decreased sexual desire or ability; excessive drowsiness; fainting; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; hallucinations; loss of appetite; menstrual changes; mental or mood changes (eg, agitation, disorientation, exaggerated sense of well-being); seizures; severe or persistent dizziness or lightheadedness; shortness of breath; slow or shallow breathing; swelling of the arms, feet, or legs; trouble sleeping; trouble urinating; unusual bruising or bleeding.

Common Side Effects: Constipation; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; headache; increased sweating; itching; lightheadedness; nausea; vomiting; weakness.

Precautions: Methadone may cause severe and sometimes fatal heart and breathing problems. These problems may occur some time after you take a dose. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any new or worsening symptoms such as slowed or shallow breathing or irregular heartbeat. Your doctor will perform heart and lung function tests to check for side effects while you take Methadone . Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments. Talk with your doctor and be sure you understand the risks and benefits of using Methadone .

Do not take more than the recommended dose or take Methadone more often than prescribed. This can lead to overdose and possible death.

Directions: Take Methadone by mouth with or without food. Methadone is for oral use only and must not be injected. Methadone must be administered under close medical supervision.

Take Methadone on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. It is more effective in preventing pain than in treating pain after it occurs. If Methadone is no longer needed, dispose of it as soon as possible. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to dispose of Methadone properly. Always keep Methadone in a secure place to protect from theft.

Missed Doses: If you miss a dose of Methadone, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once. If you miss your doses of Methadone for more than 2 days, contact your doctor before you start taking Methadone again.

Storage: Always keep Methadone in a secure place to protect from theft. Store at room temperature. If Methadone is no longer needed, dispose of it as soon as possible. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to dispose of Methadone properly. Keep out of the reach of children and animals.