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Methadone mimics many of the effects of opiates such as heroin. However,
there are many differences. For example, heroin produces an almost
immediate "rush" or brief period of euphoria, which wears off relatively
quickly, resulting in a strong craving to use more heroin. In contrast,
methadone has a more gradual onset of action when administered orally.
Its effects can last up to 24 hours, which allows the patient to take
methadone only once a day without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Research has demonstrated that, when methadone is given in regular doses
by a physician, it has the ability to block the euphoria caused by
heroin if the individual does try to take heroin. Despite methadone's
role in the treatment of heroin addiction, it has addictive properties
and also a high potential for abuse on the street. Methadone enters the
illicit drug market primarily as a result of patients selling their
prescriptions.
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