[show abstract]
[hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: The medical community has determined that narcotic addiction is a chronic and relapsing medical disorder, which is effectively treated with medications. The success rate of patients, who are treated with medications, such as methadone and buprenorphine, when combined with other needed treatment services, im-proves the health of the patient. Methadone and buprenorphine are the most exhaustively studied medications for the treatment of any disease. More than 40 years of research and clinical practice have repeatedly demonstrated its efficacy in millions of patients throughout the world. An objective observer might argue that it is irresponsible not to use such medications to treat narcotic addiction in an age of HIV infection, hepatitis-C and other developing co-morbidities.
Heroin Add & Rel Clin Probl. 01/2006; 8:5-22.
