Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario

Administration of MMT - Tips for Right Time When Administering Methadone

  • Most clinics or pharmacies are open for a set period of time to pick up methadone. Clients do their best to pick up their dose in the morning or at a consistent time every day.
  • The majority of clients are given a once-a-day dose of methadone. Pregnant clients or those on medications that speed up methadone metabolism may be on twice-a-day dosing. If the second dose is to be taken home, the client must be stable enough to qualify for carry doses or have access to a pharmacy or a clinic that can facilitate twice-a-day dosing. 
  • It is advantageous to administer methadone earlier in the day as opposed to evening in correctional facilities or hospitals, as the client is then awake and can be observed at peak dose times for symptoms of over sedation.
Addiction and Mental Health
Supporting Clients on Methadone Maintenance Treatment
Point of Care Resources