This document provides information on managing opiate dependence from a pharmacy perspective. It discusses:
- Types of opioids like heroin, morphine, codeine, and methadone.
- Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) which uses methadone to treat opioid dependence. Methadone prevents withdrawal and reduces cravings while having a long duration of action with a ceiling effect for greater safety.
- Benefits of MMT include reduced illicit drug use, improved health, decreased criminal activity, employment increases, lower costs, and decreased mortality. Comprehensive treatment combining medication and counseling is most effective.