Methadone Side Effects

Take side effects seriously. Some side effects are emergencies. Patients should stop taking methadone and contact a physician or emergency services right away if they:

• Have difficulty breathing or shallow breathing
• Feel light-headed or faint
• Get hives or a rash; have swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
• Feel chest pain
• Have a fast or pounding heartbeat
• Have hallucinations or confusion

Make sure your family members and members of your household know what symptoms to look for, especially signs of shallow breathing or loud snoring.

Other side effects are not life-threatening, but can still be cause for concern. Patients should immediately talk to health professionals if they have:

• severe or persistent nausea
• vomiting
• constipation
• loss of appetite
• weight gain
• stomach pain
• sweating
• mood changes
• vision problems
• flush or red skin
• sleep difficulties
• decreased sexual desire or ability
• missed menstrual periods.