methadone

[sr106]

Id like to know if anyone out there has had a baby while taking methadone?
my friend has just told me she is planning to have a baby.i told her to get clean first but she doesnt seem to think that taking methadone will a)stop her from conceiving and b)affect the child in any way.
im really worried shes gonna deliberately bring a child in to the world and ruin its chances at having a decent life from the off!!!!
can any one please tell me if this will stop her from having a baby or affect the child in any way i need to show her the facts and i cant do that till i know more.....

[ellion]

If she is already pregnant perhaps it is better that she is using methadone as an opiate substitute rather than using opiates

[DianaR]

I have to assume that her doctor is aware of what is going on, and is prepared to deal with complications, assuming she is already pregnant.

I don't know if this will ease your mind, but remember that methadone is also a painkiller used in medicine for chronic, intractable pain.  With this in mind, you might look around at sites that deal with chronic pain in pregnancy to see what is suggested for similar circumstances.

[anselangus]

Methadone is a powerful, and a highly addictive narcotic drug. And, without knowing the complete medical history it will be very difficult to say what complication it might have during pregnancy. That said- it is highly advisable for your friend to consult her doctor and tell him/her about it. Also, you can seek expert advice online. Try exploring sites like: http://www.drugabuse.com/ .You can even call their toll free number for some expert advice and help. Good Luck!