How to use Methadone HCL Tablet, Soluble

See also Warning section.

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using methadone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. You may take this drug with or without food. If you have nausea, it may help to take this drug with food. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to decrease nausea (such as lying down for 1 to 2 hours with as little head movement as possible).

Do not chew or swallow the tablets. Before taking, dissolve the dose in 4 ounces (120 milliliters) of water or an acidic fruit drink (such as orange juice). Drink all of the mixture immediately. If there is any medication left in the cup, add a small amount of liquid and drink all of the mixture. Do not prepare a supply in advance. Do not inject this medication.

If you are taking this medication to treat moderate to severe pain, take it on a regular schedule as directed by your doctor, not as needed for sudden (breakthrough) pain.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as restlessness, watering eyes, runny nose, nausea, sweating, muscle aches) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.

When this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.

Though it helps many people, this medication may sometimes cause addiction. This risk may be higher if you have a substance use disorder (such as overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol). Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lower the risk of addiction. Stopping methadone maintenance treatment has a high risk of return to opioid abuse. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.