Activates opioid receptors that naturally exist in your body, which have a number of effects on your body.

Like other opioids, it mimics the effect of natural opioids in your body, and in the case of methadone, it mimics morphine. 

Effective painkiller that treats moderate to severe pain. 

Brand names of methadone include:
~Hysingla
~Zohydro
~Norco (hydrocodone/acetaminophen)

*Take this medication on a regular schedule as directed by your doctor, not as needed for sudden (breakthrough) pain.

**Do NOT increase your dose, take the medication more frequently, or take it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed. 

Common side effects of hydrocodone include:
*lightheadedness,
*nausea,
*vomiting,
*constipation,
*upset stomach,
*dizziness or drowsiness,
*anxiety,
*headache,
*mood changes,
*blurred vision,
*ringing in the ears, or
*dry mouth.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
*shallow breathing, slow heartbeat;
*feeling light-headed, fainting;
*confusion, fear, unusual thoughts or behavior;
*seizure (convulsions);
*problems with urination; or
*nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, loss of *appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). 

Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

Avoid alcoholic beverages. 

Please consult your doctor/physician before considering alternatives and see if they are right for you.
*Oxycodone
*Tramadol
*Morphine
*Herbal: Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa)