The Management of Opiate Abuse: Learning from other Addictions

Abstract

Similarities between the addictions suggest that much may be learned about the management of opiate abuse from a study of the problems and results of treatment in other types of compulsive or addictive behavior. Medical methods of treatment, notably methadone, laevo-alpha acetyl methadole, naltrexone and random urine screening, may make a useful contribution to improvements in the outcome of mandatory programs when combined with close supervision, and a rapid and predictable response to lack of compliance. Some important features of a model treatment program are suggested.