In brief: Opiate maintenance alternatives: Two studies
In Brief
Opiate maintenance alternatives: Two studies
Two studies compare the standard methadone maintenance treatment for opiate addiction with alternatives, old and new. The results suggest that at least for some addicts, an older drug may be better, and the new approach is not methadone’s equal.
The synthetic opioid methadone, taken by mouth, has become the mainstay of opiate addiction therapy, with more evidence in its favor than any other addiction treatment. It is a way to avoid the highs and lows, euphoria and withdrawal reactions, and other medical and social ills that result from intravenous injection of illicit drugs.
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