Detoxification from heroin using self vs physician regulation of methadone dose

Int J Addict. 1979 Feb;14(2):289-98. doi: 10.3109/10826087909060372.

Abstract

Self-regulation of methadone dose during detoxification was compared to a fixed dose schedule. Self-regulators tended to maintain themselves on a stable methadone dose until forced to detoxify, but used less heroin and remained in treatment longer than the control group. The results suggest that a longer initial period of methadone stabilization may be useful in enabling addicts to detoxify successfully.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Ambulatory Care
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Drug Administration Schedule*
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic
  • Female
  • Heroin Dependence / epidemiology
  • Heroin Dependence / rehabilitation*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methadone / administration & dosage*
  • Methadone / therapeutic use
  • Patient Dropouts
  • Reinforcement, Verbal
  • Self Administration*

Substances

  • Methadone