Journal of addictive diseases
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Comparative Study
Physicians practicing in methadone treatment programs: who are they and what do they do?
This study examines the characteristics and roles of physicians practicing in methadone maintenance treatment programs (MTPs). ⋯ Physicians' treatment practices play a major role in overall treatment, treatment retention, and outcomes. Physicians at for-profit and large urban MTPs reported spending the most time in direct patient contact.
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OxyContin is a controlled-released form of oxycodone indicated for the management of moderate to severe pain. OxyContin diversion and abuse has become a major problem in certain areas of the United States, particularly rural areas and Appalachia. This study undertakes an 18-month retrospective chart review at a private freestanding psychiatric facility to develop a profile of OxyContin addicts seeking treatment. ⋯ One hundred and eighty seven of these individuals were dependent on OxyContin, using an average dose of 184 milligrams of OxyContin per day. The OxyContin dependent individuals tended to show a progression from p.o. use to either snorting or i.v. use. The author concludes that a sociocultural understanding is needed to better treat these addicts as is improved communication between the pain treatment community and the addiction treatment community.