Pharmacotherapy in the Treatment of Addiction: Methadone

• NCJ Number: 230861
• Journal: Jounal of Addictive Diseases Volume: 29 Issue: 2 Dated: April-June 2010 Pages: 200-216
• Author(s): Mary Jeanne Kreek, M.D.; Lisa Borg, M.D.; Elizabeth Ducat, N.P.; Brenda Ray, N.P.
• Date Published: April 2010
• Length: 17 pages
• Grant Number(s): P60-DA05130; MH79880; C003189
• Sponsoring Agency: US Dept of Health and Human Services; National Institute of Mental Health; New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description; Literature Review
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article begins with an overview of neurobiological studies on opioid addiction, including a discussion of gender differences, followed by a review of the pharmacology of methadone.

Abstract

The authors then examine the particular needs and differences of women being treated in MMTs, including co-dependence with other substances, women's health issues, and psychosocial needs unique to this population. Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is the most widely available pharmacotherapy for opioid addiction and has been shown to be an effective and safe treatment over a period of 40 years. Although women comprise approximately 40 percent of clients currently being treated in MMT programs, comparatively little research geared specifically toward this group has been published. Research shows that women have different substance abuse treatment needs in comparison to their male counterparts. One New York City MMT program that has attempted to address these differences is highlighted. 150 references (Published Abstract)