Illicit methadone injecting during methadone maintenance treatment in a specialised out-patient clinic

Abstract

AIM: The injection of non-sterile methadone designed for oral consumption is associated with serious health risks. There is only a small number of studies on this topic, with divergent results. The main aim of the present study was to obtain data on the frequency of methadone injecting in a state out-patient clinic specialised in substance use disorders. METHODS: Eighty patients in methadone maintenance treatment were interviewed with a short questionnaire. Mean age was 32 years, 76% were male, mean methadone dose was 55 mg. RESULTS: Twenty-six patients (32%) indicated having injected methadone at least once in their life. Only four patients (5%) reported having injected methadone within the preceding month (mean dose 56 mg). All four had injected additional substances during this month. CONCLUSIONS: Frequency rates appeared low compared with other studies despite a generous take-away policy. The results suggest an association between methadone injecting and a more general tendency to inject substances.