Research Brief: Methadone Maintenance Treatment

Brief review of the research evidence on the benefits of methadone maintenance treatment with regard to reducing crime, death, disease and drug use. Evidence is given to show that methadone is cost-effective; works for HIV/AIDS prevention; reduces criminal behaviour; reduces heroin use; and is effective outside of traditional clinic settings. Common questions about methadone are answered, on topics such as proper dosage; addictiveness; length of treatment; health effects; and appropriateness of methadone for various types of drug users.