Methadone

Definition

A synthetic opioid with analgesic activity. Methadone mimics the actions of endogenous peptides at CNS opioid receptors, primarily on the mu-receptor and has actions similar to those of morphine and morphine-like agents. The characteristic morphine-like effects include analgesia, euphoria, sedation, respiratory depression, miosis, bradycardia and physical dependence. However, the detoxification symptoms between morphine-like agents and methadone differ in that the onset of methadone's withdrawal symptoms is slower, the course is more prolonged and the symptoms are less severe.

Also known as METHADONE — per NCIT

Also identified as

• ATC N07BC02 per RXNORM
• NCIT NCIT:C62044 per NCIT
• SCTID 387286002 per RXNORM
• SCTID 51758009 per RXNORM
• UNII UC6VBE7V1Z per RXNORM

Indications