Opioid-dependent users on methadone: A knowledge synthesis of formal interventions aimed at methadone retention and improved health

For over 50 years, methadone has been prescribed to individuals around the world who are dependent on opioid drugs (e.g., opium, morphine, codeine, and heroin etc) as a way to lessen the symptoms of withdrawal, and reduce the constant craving for the drug. Methadone's effectiveness as a treatment to help stabilize individuals who are opioid-dependent, and to help them improve their health, has been well established. However, for many individuals, staying on methadone for a long enough period of time to obtain the benefits, and to address their varied physical, mental and social needs, can be challenging. These individuals require a variety of interventions (such as counseling, medical services, housing and vocational services) to assist them in continuing on methadone, and in improving their health so they can live productive lives. With over 20,000 individuals on methadone (and estimates of thousands across the country waiting to enter treatment), we cannot afford interventions that are ineffective, or that do not match the particular needs of different groups. Our research will help in the development of evidence-informed interventions for individuals on methadone by: a) synthesizing the existing body of knowledge about interventions for this population; and, b) providing an explanation as to what types of interventions work best for the different sub-populations on methadone (e.g., women, men, youth, etc.), and under what conditions. These results will be utilized by program and policy-makers to help facilitate the refinement and/or co-ordination of existing services across the country. The research will help to ensure that all the supports and services provided to Canadians who are on methadone are based on the best available scientific evidence.