Methadone maintenance clients and the acceptability of supervised consumption of methadone

Concerns in the UK about the amount of methadone available 'on the street' and the growing problem of overdose deaths amongst opiate addicts and others, have led to the recent suggestion that supervised consumption of prescribed methadone may be an appropriate cautionary measure. This small study investigated the acceptability of supervised consumption of methadone amongst a treatment sample of opiate dependent clients attending an NHS drug treatment service in South London. Interviews were undertaken with 86 clients (from a sample of 100) asking details of their experience of supervised consumption of methadone, the effect of supervision on treatment and lifestyle, and opinions and preference for site of supervision. The results from this study indicate an overall positive response from this sample group of clients with the majority agreeing that supervised consumption reduced the amount of methadone 'on the street' and ensured compliance with the prescribed treatment. Convenience, and a preference coordinator for one or the other of the different formulations of methadone available, were identified as the most important reasons for indicating a preference for site of supervision. Further study is now required to establish the contribution that supervised consumption could make to reducing diversion and improving methadone maintenance treatment in the UK.