A nurse is caring for a client who is withdrawing from opioids. Which of the following medications would the nurse prepare to administer?
A.
Risperidone (Risperdal).
B.
Lithium carbonate (Eskalith).
C.
Disulfiram (Antabuse).
D.
Methadone (Methadose).
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Methadone (Methadose).
Explanation:
Methadone (Methadose) is the appropriate medication for a client who is withdrawing from opioids. Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist used in the management of opioid withdrawal and as part of maintenance therapy in opioid use disorder. Here’s why it is the right choice:
- Mechanism of Action: Methadone works by activating the opioid receptors in the brain, which helps to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with opioid dependence. It provides a stable, long-acting opioid effect that can prevent the peaks and troughs of opioid levels in the bloodstream, thus reducing withdrawal symptoms more smoothly compared to shorter-acting opioids.
- Use in Withdrawal Management: Methadone is commonly used in opioid replacement therapy to help individuals taper off opioids gradually. This is beneficial in reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms while helping to prevent relapse by maintaining a consistent level of opioid in the system.
- Regulation and Supervision: Methadone treatment is often administered in a controlled setting such as a specialized clinic. The dosage is carefully monitored and adjusted based on the individual’s needs and response to treatment.
Let’s briefly consider the other options:
- A. Risperidone (Risperdal): This is an antipsychotic medication used primarily for managing symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, not for opioid withdrawal.
- B. Lithium carbonate (Eskalith): Lithium is used to treat bipolar disorder and does not have a role in managing opioid withdrawal.
- C. Disulfiram (Antabuse): Disulfiram is used to support the treatment of alcohol dependence by causing unpleasant reactions when alcohol is consumed. It is not indicated for opioid withdrawal.
In summary, Methadone is the medication of choice for managing opioid withdrawal due to its opioid agonist properties that help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and stabilize opioid levels.