What Are Alternatives to Methadone?

March 18, 2021 | By: frhdev

While public attention has focused mainly on COVID-19 in recent years, the opioid epidemic continues to claim lives across the United States. The need for accessible, effective treatment is more critical than ever, especially as addiction treatment centers look for new and better ways to support long-term recovery. Among these, methadone alternatives have become an essential part of modern medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder (OUD).

Traditionally, methadone has been one of the most widely used medications for opioid addiction. But today, thanks to evolving research and expanded access, several evidence-based alternatives offer similar benefits, often with fewer limitations.

This article explores methadone, its pros and cons, and viable alternatives that individuals and treatment providers can consider for personalized recovery plans.

What Is Methadone?

Methadone is a long-acting synthetic opioid developed in the 1930s. It became widely used in the U.S. during the 1970s to treat heroin and other opioid addictions. Methadone works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as opioids like heroin, oxycodone, or fentanyl, thereby reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the same euphoric high when taken as prescribed.

Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) has been a cornerstone of MAT for decades, offering many benefits, such as:

Improved treatment retention
Reduced opioid cravings
Decreased risk of relapse
Lower rates of overdose
Reduction in criminal behavior and transmission of infectious disease

What Is Methadone

Challenges with Methadone Maintenance Treatment

Despite its effectiveness, methadone has significant limitations that lead many to seek methadone alternatives:

Restricted access: Methadone can only be dispensed through federally certified opioid treatment programs (methadone clinics), making it less accessible in many areas.
Potential for misuse: Methadone is itself a full opioid agonist and carries a risk of dependency and misuse if not carefully managed.
Side effects: These may include sedation, low blood pressure, nausea, constipation, respiratory suppression, and sexual dysfunction.
Daily clinic visits: The structure of MMT may be complicated for individuals with work or family commitments.

Because of these factors, more treatment providers integrate alternative medications into comprehensive recovery plans.

Effective Alternatives to Methadone

Several FDA-approved medications are now available to treat opioid use disorder. These methadone alternatives are increasingly preferred for their flexibility, safety profiles, and accessibility.

1. Buprenorphine (Suboxone®, Subutex®)

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms but with a lower risk of misuse than methadone. Suboxone, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, helps prevent misuse by blocking the euphoric effects of opioids if taken improperly.

Benefits of Buprenorphine:

Can be prescribed in-office by certified physicians (no need for a clinic)
Lower potential for overdose than methadone
Blocks the effects of other opioids
Helps support long-term recovery when paired with counseling and therapy

2. Zubsolv®

Zubsolv is another formulation that combines buprenorphine and naloxone. It is taken sublingually (under the tongue) and is clinically proven to reduce opioid cravings and support treatment retention.

Why consider Zubsolv?

Similar effectiveness to Suboxone
Designed to be more palatable and easier to absorb
Fewer gastrointestinal side effects in some patients

3. Probuphine® Implant

Probuphine is a long-acting, implantable form of buprenorphine. Four small rods are placed under the skin of the upper arm and release a consistent dose over six months.

Advantages:

Eliminates daily dosing
Reduces the risk of diversion or misuse
Provides steady medication levels

4. Lofexidine (Lucemyra®)

Lofexidine is a non-opioid medication approved for reducing withdrawal symptoms during detox. It does not address cravings or long-term management but may be helpful for short-term relief during the early stages of recovery.

5. Naltrexone (Vivitrol®)

Naltrexone is a non-addictive opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids altogether. It can be administered as a monthly injection (Vivitrol) and is ideal for individuals who have already completed detox.

Key Benefits:

No abuse potential
Supports abstinence-based recovery
Also approved for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Why Medication Alone Isn’t Enough

Whether someone chooses methadone or a methadone alternative, medication alone is not a cure for opioid addiction. The most successful treatment plans include:

Behavioral therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Group therapy and peer support networks
Individual counseling
Family therapy
Holistic health services, such as mindfulness, physical wellness, and nutrition
Long-term recovery planning, including alumni engagement and aftercare programs

Futures Recovery Healthcare offers a full continuum of care that integrates MAT with comprehensive therapy, trauma support, and mental health treatment.

Finding the Right Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder

Choosing the proper medication and program depends on several factors, including access, health history, co-occurring disorders, and personal preference. At Futures Recovery Healthcare, treatment plans are tailored to each individual, ensuring the most effective path toward long-term recovery.

MAT at Futures Recovery Healthcare

Futures offers evidence-based medication-assisted treatment alongside personalized behavioral health support. Located on a private, 9-acre campus in Tequesta, Florida, our programs include:

Medical detox and stabilization
Residential and outpatient addiction treatment
Specialized tracks for trauma, chronic pain, and co-occurring disorders
Alumni and family support services
Holistic therapies and private accommodations

We support multiple pathways to recovery, including methadone alternatives like Suboxone, Vivitrol, and buprenorphine-based therapies, so each client receives the care that fits their unique journey.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here to help. Our compassionate team of clinicians, therapists, and support staff is committed to guiding individuals through every stage of recovery with dignity and respect.