Do The Medications Used for Replacement Narcotic Therapy Have Side Effects?
When used as directed, methadone and LAAM are safe alternatives for treating opiate addiction. Aside from producing physical dependence, the medications used in NRT have no known serious or prolonged side effects, even when taken daily for several years. They are longer acting than heroin, and are ingested orally rather than injected, which reduces cravings and renders the use of needles unnecessary.