Methadone is safe and effective treatment

According to figures released last year by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 600,000 U.S. citizens began ilicit opiate use in 2008. Add that to the hundreds of thousands of Americans already abusing heroin and prescription pills, and we have a significant problem in this country that continues to grow.
Methadone has long been used as one option for the treatment of opiate dependence. However, despite its long term use, it remains largely misunderstood. The stigma associated with addiction remains, even after a person enters treatment. This seems especially true of patients receiving methadone, as they are often seen as "substituting one drug for another".
What can health professionals tell patients who are seeking treatment, and may have questions about methadone? The most important thing is to stress that addiction is a disease, and we must treat it as such. Methadone is a medicine used to treat the disease. When used properly, there is no "high" associated with methadone and it is very safe. People can function well, and restore their lives to a productive level.
Honesty is important, and patients should be encouraged to confide in those they can trust, for support. If they are employed, and drug testing is required, they should reveal that they are in treatment. Participation in methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) can not be held against a person, thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act. Workers should be encouraged to work with their employee assistance program, if one is available.
Information about MMT for health professionals can be obtained from SAMHSA at www.SAMHSA.org and Addiction Treatment Forum www.atforum.com as well as your local health department.