What is one of the key mechanisms by which methadone helps in treating OUD?

Methadone is effective in treating opioid use disorder (OUD) primarily because it binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain. These receptors are part of the body’s endogenous pain control system and play a crucial role in modulating pain, reward, and addictive behaviors. By activating these receptors, methadone mimics the effects of other opioids but does so in a controlled manner that helps to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the intense high associated with short-acting opioids. This allows individuals to stabilize their lives and reduces the risk of illicit opioid use.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent how methadone functions in the context of OUD treatment. Methadone is a long-acting opioid, not a stimulant, which would be contrary to its therapeutic role. Additionally, while it may have some secondary effects, such as potential sedation, promoting sleep is not its primary function in treating opioid dependency. Reducing blood pressure is also not a key mechanism of action for methadone regarding OUD treatment. Thus, the binding to mu-opioid receptors is the critical therapeutic action that supports recovery and management of opioid addiction.