Methadone

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jan 25, 2024

Common Questions


Common Questions about Methadone (Dolophine)


Is methadone a good painkiller?

Methadone is an opioid (narcotic) painkiller and can provide effective relief from moderate to severe pain that has not responded to non-opioid pain medications.



Is methadone used for sleep?

Methadone is not prescribed for insomnia (trouble falling asleep or staying asleep). There are other safer drugs available to help with sleep. However, drowsiness can be a side effect of methadone.



Can I drink alcohol while on methadone?

You should not drink alcohol while on methadone. Alcohol can make side effects like drowsiness and dizziness worse. Drinking alcohol while on methadone can also increase your risk of life-threatening slowed breathing.



How does methadone affect your brain?

Methadone changes how your nervous system perceives and responds to pain.



How does methadone work in people with opioid addiction?

Methadone is a long-acting full opioid agonist. The medication’s active ingredients remain in the body and prevent cravings and withdrawal effects. Medical treatment with methadone can, therefore, help people battling opioid addiction overcome their dependence, achieve sustained recovery from drug abuse, and lead active and meaningful lives.



What is the price of methadone without insurance?

Without insurance, methadone can be as high as $64.99, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $12.63 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of methadone with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on methadone—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for methadone. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.