methADONe

Trade name

Physeptone

Presentation and preparation

10 mg/mL (volume: 1 mL)

IV administration

Give undiluted as a slow IV injection over 3 to 5 minutes. 

May be given as a continuous IV infusion in palliative care settings under specialist supervision. Dilute to a convenient volume for infusion. Refer to relevant local guidelines.

Other routes of administration

IM: Suitable. Give undiluted.

SC: Suitable. May be given as an intermittent or continuous SC infusion in palliative care settings under specialist supervision. Dilute to a convenient volume for infusion.

Compatible IV fluids

Sodium chloride 0.9%

Additional information

Methadone has complex pharmacokinetics. It should only be used under specialist supervision.

Use only when facilities for cardiac monitoring and cardio-respiratory resuscitation exist.

Monitor respiratory rate, sedation and blood pressure.

Concomitant use of CNS depressants (e.g. other opioids, parenteral benzodiazepines, IM olanzapine) increases the risk of respiratory depression, sedation, coma and death.

Use with caution in patients predisposed to QT interval prolongation or in patients being administered other medications known to prolong QT interval. Monitor ECG in at-risk patients.

Risk of tolerance, dependence and withdrawal. Taper the infusion slowly when discontinuing treatment; abrupt discontinuation may cause withdrawal.

Discard any remaining solution in vial.

Protect from light during storage.