Human beings have always searched for ways to feel better, reduce pain, and experience moments of happiness or even euphoria. Throughout history people have discovered substances that influence the brain and body, including powerful drugs known as opioids. However, what many people do not realize is that the human body itself produces chemicals that act…

Basic Pharmacology:  How Methadone Works Part 2 Basic Opioid Pharmacology All natural and synthetic opioids exhibit a three dimensional T-shaped configuration (Barchas, Berger, Ciaranello and Elliott, 1977). This T-shaped molecule has two broad hydrophobic surfaces which are at right angles and a methylated nitrogen which is usually charged at physiological pH. The charged nitrogen is…

The bias and misunderstandings about methadone as a medication often result in methadone patients being refused medical care (Umbricht-Schneiter, 1994; Zweben and Sorensen, 1988). Another common scenario is that their medication is used to coerce or manipulate methadone patients into medical treatment (Blansfield, 1992). In other areas of medicine such actions would be considered unethical…

Education Series Number 9 January 1999 Letter Supplement O N  Y O U R  L E T T E R H E A D Dear Doctor: The bearer of this letter is a patient in a methadone maintenance treatment program. Methadone patients frequently need treatment for other medical, surgical, and dental conditions. At times the health professional…