What is methadone and buprenorphine?
Methadone and buprenorphine are depressant drugs called pharmacotherapies. They slow down the responses between the brain and body. They are prescribed by doctors to support people dependent on opioids to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, reduce harms or even stop using.
It is important to know there are a number of factors that impact how a young person might experience a drug, such as their location, gender, size, mood and if other drugs, alcohol or medication has been taken.
UNDERSTANDING:
Understanding more about why a young person might use pharmacotherapies can help guide future conversations with them. Pharmacotherapies can temporarily dull physical and emotional pain, make someone feel warm and relaxed or alleviate stress.
While a young person may use it for many reasons, sometimes drugs can have unintended side effects.
Here are some ways to support a young person who might have used too much
- Stay calm and reassure them that you are there to support them
- Try to find out what they have been using (including any prescribed depressant drugs)
- Support them to move to a safe place where they are comfortable and sitting down
- Observe the young person’s breathing by looking at their chest rising and falling
- If you observe slow and shallow breathing or choking/gurgling noises call 000 and administer naloxone
- Emergency services will walk you through the steps you need to take until paramedics arrive
- NB: Naloxone is available from these pharmacies free of charge: Take home naloxone program
Check out these articles to understand how to best support your young person
Understanding adolescent development in relation to drug use ADF
Risk-taking behaviours and adolescents Headspace
Importance of peer relationship headspace
How to start a conversation about drug use with someone you are concerned about YoDAA video
We know families have a lot of questions about substance use. Reach out to YoDAA help better understand and support your young person.
Get help now
YoDAA is a free and confidential online and phone service that offers supports to young people, families and professionals. You can contact 9am -8pm Monday to Friday.
Further Reading
Safe Injecting
Safe injection is aimed at encouraging the one-time use of needles and syringes and limiting the sharing of medication vials.
Naloxone
Naloxone is a drug that is used to reverse the effects of opioids such as heroin, morphine, methadone, fentanyl and oxycontin.
Naloxone take-home list
A range of organisations can supply free naloxone to young people, their families, carers and supporters.