Methadone changes the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain so that you feel relief. Its effects are slower than those of other strong painkillers like morphine. It blocks the high you get from drugs like codeine, heroin, hydrocodone, morphine, and oxycodone.
It can also help if you’re in treatment for addiction to other opioids. It can give a similar feeling and prevent withdrawal symptoms.
It’s usually used as one part of your treatment plan. It isn’t a cure for addiction.