Chip - To be honest i don't worry or think about the health consequences of long term methadone. The side effects you mentioned effect only a small proportion of users, but your right, it's not something i'm proud of ar to be envyed. Just something i've come to terms with.
Sorry, but laughed at your "one with the big habit" line, sounds so familiar its unreal. Be it drugs, cars, coke, women ect. we ALL have a weakness.