MARS Medicated Assisted Recovery Services Project

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…

Methadone maintenance treatment has been the most effective treatment for addiction to heroin resulting the cessation of heroin use and criminal behavior. Prior to the development of methadone maintenance treatment over 28 years ago narcotic addiction was considered incurable and a behavioral disorder under the control of law enforcement. Drs. Dole and Nyswander brought the…

The dilution of methadone with water was initiated as a result of the first federal methadone regulations because it was believed that this policy would reduce the diversion of methadone. While initially this policy may have had an impact within a short time most prospective buyers learning that methadone was now diluted with water and…

The intent of Bottle Recall initially was to be able to allow patients take home medication and to insure that methadone is not diverted to the streets. However, methadone programs have been giving patients take home medication for years without a serious methadone diversion problem. Furthermore numerous studies have demonstrated that methadone is not a…

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…