THE NATIONAL TREATMENT OUTCOME RESEARCH STUDY IN THE UNITED-KINGDOM -6-MONTH FOLLOW-UP OUTCOMES

The National Treatment Outcome Research Study is the first prospective , multisite treatment outcome investigation of drug users in the Unite d Kingdom. The findings of this influential national study are being u sed by the Department of Health to formulate purchasing guidance. This article presents data on substance use problems for clients (N = 1,07 5) in specialist inpatient, rehabilitation, methadone maintenance, and methadone reduction modalities. The most frequent problem was heroin addiction with associated polydrug use problems. There were difference s between modalities in substance use at intake. Clients in residentia l modalities were older, were more likely to use cocaine and alcohol i n addition to opiates, had longer drug careers, and had more previous treatment contact. Substantial improvements in a range of substance us e problems were observed at 6-month follow-up among clients in all tre atment modalities.