A REVIEW OF PATIENTS ON METHADONE-MAINTENANCE

This study involves a review of 178 patients on a strictly monitored m ethadone maintenance programme. All patients had a minimum of 9 years of intravenous drug misuse, 35.7% were HIV positive, 55.7%males and 29 %females had previous prison sentences, On average patients had underg one 3.26 out-patient and 0.9 in-patient detoxification, 46.1% had atte mpted rehabilitation in the past, Out of 25,470 urine samples obtained while on the programme, 10.8% were positive for opiates, 19.2% for be nzodiazepines, 32.5% for cannabis, 4.92% for alcohol and 2.27% for amp hetamines. Long history of misuse, multiple custodial sentences, previ ous unsuccessful rehabilitation and positive HIV status were associate d with acceptance for maintenance, Frequency of urinalysis, and result s triggering dose change can effectively reduce illicit drug use.