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Heroin Addiction and Related Clinical Problems: 2024, 26, 56

Consumption Patterns and Relevant Habits of Patients on Methadone Maintenance Therapy in Tehran, Iran

Reyhaneh Mehrvar, Saeideh Soltani, and Ali Kheradmand

Digital Object Identifier:
https://doi.org/10.62401/2531-4122-2024-56

Summary: Background. In Iran, one practical approach for treating opioid use disorder is methadone maintenance treatment. This survey investigated the consumption patterns of methadone and the habits of patients undergoing methadone maintenance therapy for six months or longer in Tehran, Iran. Methods. The study was carried out at six addiction rehabilitation centres, involving patients on methadone maintenance therapy between 2022 and 2023 for at least six months who agreed to participate in this survey. One hundred fifty patients were assessed, providing information through questionnaires during interviews. These questionnaires included details about their demographics and methadone consumption patterns. Results. Of the 150 participants, 25 (16.7%) were over 60 and females absent. High education was rare, and the majority were married. 60.7% reported using methadone syrup, while 40.3% mentioned using tablets; however, there was no difference noted in adverse effects or impact duration between patients using the two forms. The majority of patients preferred taking their medication in the morning. Methadone side effects were rare. The research revealed that the prevalence of smoking stood at 93%, while opium use was reported at 12%. There were no correlations found between demographics, methadone intake patterns, treatment challenges, or effectiveness strategies. Conclusions. The Iranian patients seemed to be different from other worldwide methadone clinics, especially considering the absence of females in treatment. However, they seemed to adapt to the methadone medication despite a high prevalence of tobacco smoking. This survey helps understand the cultural differences that can affect the development of heroin addiction and the organisation of what is considered the best treatment for this type of patient.

Keywords: Methadone Maintenance Therapy; drug dependence; consumption patterns; addiction; Methadone