@article{Duangrithi_2021, title={Methadone maintenance treatment}, volume={36}, url={https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/246054}, abstractNote={<p>Opioid substitution therapy (OST) is the cost effective method to prolong retention rate, decrease drug dependence, prevent HIV transmission, promote health and wellbeing and decrease crime. Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is the treatment program that involves the long-term prescribing of methadone as an alternative to the opioid. It is the most effective treatment among OST. The long-term objective is drug abstinence. Inclusion criteria for treatment in many countries are similar including age of 16-18 years, failure from previous methadone therapy, having motivation. However, the differences are method of drug use, history of treatment and duration of opioid dependence. The exclusion criteria focuses on methadone contraindication. The inclusion criteria of Thai treatment guideline is less strict resulting in more patient access. But the dose of methadone using in Thailand is lowest among countries so the withdrawal syndrome and negative treatment outcome may occur. Duration of treatment is about 1 year similarly in all countries. Treatment outcome was monitored regarding withdrawal syndrome, side effects, and toxicities. The most influencing factor for treatment outcome is patient adherence and the health care professionals have the great impact. Motivation for treatment is the important strategy and treating soon after diagnosis is recommended to enhance treatment success.</p>}, number={1}, journal={Srinagarind Medical Journal}, author={Duangrithi, Duangjai -}, year={2021}, month={Jan.}, pages={119–125} }