methadone

noun

meth·​a·​done ˈme-thə-ˌdōn How to pronounce methadone (audio)
variants or less commonly methadon
: a synthetic addictive narcotic drug C21H27NO used especially in the form of its hydrochloride for the relief of pain and as a substitute narcotic in the treatment of heroin addiction

Examples of methadone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Widely considered the standard of care for opioid addiction, MAT uses medications such as Suboxone and methadone to reduce withdrawal symptoms and curb cravings. Kelly Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Sep. 2025 Maybe research will one day show that 7-OH is as useful as suboxone or methadone for opioid treatment, Warren said. Kansas City Star, 18 Sep. 2025 An autopsy ultimately found that Daniel had died from a combination of drugs, including methadone and antidepressants. Victoria Edel, People.com, 10 Sep. 2025 Access to lifesaving medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) such as methadone and buprenorphine has also increased. Lipi Roy, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for methadone

Word History

Etymology

methyl + amino + diphenyl + -one

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of methadone was in 1947

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Cite this Entry

“Methadone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/methadone. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

methadone

noun
meth·​a·​done ˈmeth-ə-ˌdōn How to pronounce methadone (audio)
variants also methadon
: a narcotic drug C21H27NO that is used to replace heroin in the treatment of heroin addiction

Medical Definition

methadone

noun
meth·​a·​done ˈmeth-ə-ˌdōn How to pronounce methadone (audio)
variants also methadon
: a synthetic addictive narcotic drug used especially in the form of its hydrochloride C21H27NO·HCl for the relief of pain and as a substitute narcotic in the treatment of heroin addiction

called also amidone

More from Merriam-Webster on methadone

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