Methadone Use During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, women's bodies undergo considerable changes, particularly in terms of metabolism and body fat percentage.
During pregnancy, women's bodies undergo considerable changes, particularly in terms of metabolism and body fat percentage. According to some research, pregnant women who took their regular dose of methadone nonetheless experienced opioid withdrawal symptoms as a result of these physiological alterations.
According to several studies, methadone doses should be increased during pregnancy to prevent maternal withdrawal symptoms. Other research, on the other hand, found that giving pregnant women split doses helped them avoid withdrawal.
It's exactly what it sounds like: a split-dose. The full dose is divided in half and administered every 12 hours. If a pregnant woman took 30 milligrams of methadone each day, she would take 15 milligrams in the morning and 15 milligrams in the evening.
According to studies, the amount of methadone a person takes has little influence on whether or not their infant experiences withdrawal. As a result, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to using methadone while pregnant. Speaking with a doctor about treatment choices while pregnant is the healthiest option for expectant mothers.
Methadone Use During Pregnancy: What Are The Consequences?
Methadone, like other drugs, has the potential to cause negative effects. Methadone, when used as prescribed, can induce flushing and dry mouth.
Side effects may be worsened if a person adjusts their dose or takes the drug differently than suggested. Taking the drug in a way that isn't prescribed is known as substance abuse, and it can lead to pregnancy difficulties.
Methadone's other negative effects include:
headache
gaining weight
tongue ache
stomach ache
urination problems
alterations in eyesight
swallowing issues
disruptions in mood
nausea
dizziness
Having difficulty falling or staying asleep
physical reliance (a person may experience withdrawal symptoms if medication is stopped)
Some persons may be more affected by methadone's negative effects than others. If you have any concerns about how methadone interacts with your body or pregnancy, talk to your prescribing doctor about them.