Other names
Meth, linctus, green, juice, amps.
How it affects you
- Similar effects to heroin, though longer acting (24 hours) and less intense.
- Some users experience an intense allergy-like itchiness.
- When prescribed for heroin users it can stop their withdrawal for 24 hours, to allow them to gain control of their lives.
Is it legal?
- It’s only legal if it’s prescribed to you. Without a prescription it’s Class A drug.
- If you’re caught with it illegally you could get up to seven years in jail and/or a big fine.
- If you’re caught supplying or producing it you could get up to life in prison and an even bigger fine.
Risks, signs and symptoms
- Methadone is physically addictive and withdrawal can be longer and even more unpleasant than heroin.
- If you mix methadone with alcohol you’re at more risk of passing out and, like heroin, your cough reflex is reduced which means you could choke if you’re sick.
- Overdose is common in users who are not used to the drug or have lost their tolerance.
- Injecting it or using undiluted 50mg ampoules can lead to vein damage, and injecting crushed tablets carries serious risk of vein blocking and abscesses.
- Methadone is extremely poisonous for to children.
How you can reduce the risks
- Only take it as prescribed by your doctor.
- Keep it away from children.
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