Methadone is a narcotic just like any other narcotic. It is as addictive, has a euphoric effect, and even has a street value. There's a great market for it "out there" because it is a desirable drug for addicts.

The ONLY reason it is used for narcotic addiction maintenance is that it is relatively long-acting. Addicts only have to take it a couple of times a day, maybe even once, as opposed to about every 4 hours for heroin. Therefore they do not have to show up at the clinic as often.

It is used as a pain-killer for the same reason - long-acting. It's addictive, and will cause a problem with withdrawal just like the rest of them.

If your friend doesn't have a problem with alcohol or other drugs I'd say he or she is safe - may have to come off of the things slowly, though, if they've been on them for a while. Will be anxious, irritable and depressed. That's normal.

However, all narcotics take more and more to have the same effect as people get habituated. They are only good for pain relief for relatively short times.

Hope this helps.

Arf