METHADONE TREATMENT IN THE SCOTTISH CONTEXT - OUTCOMES OF A COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICE FOR DRUG-USERS IN LOTHIAN

Few studies investigating the effectiveness of methadone treatment for opiate dependence have emanated from the UK. The core feature of trea tment offered by Lothian Health's Community Drug Problems Service invo lves the prescribing of methadone by the client's general practitioner . Of a cohort of 494 daily users of opiates attending the service: 39% remained in treatment for at least 12 months. Up to 2 years in-treatm ent follow-up revealed significant improvement in injecting and crimin al behaviour. There were no HIV seroconversions reported during the tr eatment period. There was no improvement in injection equipment sharin g, condom use, illicit drug use or employment status. 'Satisfactory' d ischarge was achieved for 40% of those in treatment for at least 6 mon ths. These results are largely consistent with the outcomes of methado ne programmes elsewhere. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All ri ghts reserved.