> I find that stuff like methadone is really quite strong, and I don't see how it isn't addictive. I figure it's to keep addicts alive while they get treatment

> I find that stuff like methadone is really quite strong, and I don't see how it isn't addictive. I figure it's to keep addicts alive while they get treatment instead of them getting a hot shot somewhere and ending up in a grave. I am not an expert, but yes Methadone is addictive. It is drug replacement therapy, and Methadone is still a drug. The primary criticism of its use in addiction treatment is that it replaces dependence on one drug, like Heroin, with dependence on Methadone. A benefit of its use is indeed that it's a well regulated drug whose composition is known. My understanding of why it helps in addiction treatment is that it triggers the same receptors as the drug it replaces, therefore satisfying the addiction, but it produces less intense effects and stays active for much longer, with less severe withdrawal symptoms spread out over a longer time period.