Abstract
A low threshold methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) were assessed. In 331 opioid dependent patients (DSV-III-R). The aim of the MMT is not oriented to abstinence. There are minimal entry criteria, (ex. previous treatments not necessary, freely requested by the patient in the absence of medical contraindication can be an entry criteria). Also there are minimal forced discharge criteria (related to violence, disruptive behaviour in the centre and/or non-attendance). There is no discharge for positive urine screening tests. There is not limit of time. There is not limit of doses.
The sex distribution was 68% males, global mean age was 31 years. After 2,5 years of MMT, 195 patients were discharged (68% males). The main motives for discharge were: Change of the therapeutic program (26%), Drop out (23%), Prison (15%) and Forced discharge (15%). Soclodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients on treatment (n = 136) vs patients discharged are compared.
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Castillo, C., Torrens, M., Garrell, E. et al. Follow-up of a low threshold methadone maintenance treatment. Neuropsychopharmacol 11, 267 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.npp.1380140
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.npp.1380140