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Constipation
Constipation is one of the effects of opiates to which people rarely develop
a tolerance, and chronic constipation can cause serious long-term problems.
So, if you will be taking
methadone over a long period, it will be really helpful if you can include
lots of fruit and vegetables and alcohol-free drinks in your diet every
day.
If constipation is a
problem, talk it over with your doctor - especially if you are thinking
about using laxatives. Some types of laxatives can be very helpful, but
those which work on the muscles make things worse in the long term.
Teeth
Like all opiates, methadone is not good for your teeth because it can
restrict the production of saliva which is one of the body’s natural
defences against plaque - the commonest cause of tooth decay.
If you are prescribed
methadone that is not sugar-free, it will be 50% syrup which can cause
plaque. However,
methadone is no worse for your teeth than eating sweets or taking sugar
in tea and coffee! And research has shown that the teeth of opiate users
on methadone scripts are no worse than those of opiate users not on a
script.
To improve your dental
health find a good dentist (your drug agency should be able to put you
in touch with one) and visit at least once a year: regular dental care
can make a big difference.
It also helps to:
- try and cut out
(or reduce the amount of) sugary foods in your diet;
- clean your teeth
morning and night and after meals
(use your own toothbrush as there is a hepatitis C risk from using other
people’s);
- use dental floss;
and
- chew sugar-free
gum.
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