Advice and warnings for the use of Methadone during pregnancy. FDA Pregnancy Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out Methadone is an opioid medication. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic. Methadone reduces withdrawal symptoms in people addicted to heroin or other narcotic drugs without causing the high associated with the drug addiction. Methadone maintenance treatment is the use of methadone, administered over a prolonged period of time, as treatment for someone who is addicted to opioids such as heroin, where detoxification has been unsuccessful and/or admittance to a substance abuse treatment facility requires complete abstinence. Methadone is a synthetic opiate manufactured for use as a painkiller and as a substitute for heroin in the treatment of heroin addiction. It has similar effects to heroin but doesn't deliver the same degree of buzz or high as heroin. What Is Methadone? Methadone has been used for decades to treat people who are addicted to heroin and narcotic pain medicines. When taken as prescribed, it is safe and effective. It allows people to recover from their addiction and to reclaim active and meaningful lives. For optimal results, patients should also participate in a comprehensive. Methadone is part of a group of drugs known as opioid, which means they slow down the messages travelling between the brain and the rest of the body. Methadone Detox. At its best, methadone can be a life saver for people struggling with opiate addiction. By replacing heroin or high doses of opiate painkillers with a long-lasting, legal alternative, many people are able to begin living a normal life again. methadone (Methadone Mixture, linctus, meth, Physeptone) Methadone Hydrochloride is an opioid (a synthetic opiate) that was originally synthesised by the German pharmaceutical company Axis during the second world war. Compare prices, print coupons and get savings tips for Methadone (Generic Dolophine and Methadose) and other Pain and Opioid Dependence drugs at CVS, Walgreens, and other pharmacies. Prices start at $12.24 Oral methadone and buprenorphine are recommended for maintenance therapy in the management of opioid dependence. Patients should be committed to a supportive care programme including a flexible dosing regimen administered under supervision for at least 3 months, until compliance is assured.