Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Methadone is a synthetic opioid prescription medication used as a replacement for heroin and other opioids as part of pharmacotherapy treatment for heroin and other opioid dependence.
  • Other medication types used to treat heroin dependence include buprenorphine and naltrexone.
  • A doctor who is an approved prescriber can prescribe a regular dose of methadone or buprenorphine to a person who is heroin dependent.
  • People on medication treatment programs are more likely to be successful if they have comprehensive treatment alongside pharmacotherapy – such as counselling.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 22-12-2023