The use of methadone as a treatment tool for opiate addicts: A two-year follow-up study.

Eighty-three per cent of a sample of 116 drug addicts in a Sydney methadone treatment programme were successfully followed up. Methadone was not found to be "the quick cure" for opiate addiction. More than two-thirds were still taking methadone, only 3% had not taken any opiates for six months or longer, and a further 5% had not taken any opiates for less than six months. The remainder (22%) were using illegal opiates either regularly or intermittently, or were in gaol. However, from the employment, crime and social-emotional stability data, it may be concluded that the methadone programme, particularly if adhered to continuously, is "successful". These findings generally support the findings of overseas studies. The clients, especially those who were still adhering to the programme, felt that methadone was helpful, although there was concern about still being drug-dependent and about side effects.