Methadone Dosage and Illicit Methadone Use: An Initial Exploration

Abstract

An all too common criticism of methadone programs is that they have become the source of a supply of a new black market narcotic, i.e., methadone diverted for illicit use. Arguments are presented that as long as patients can take home relatively high dosages of methadone, there is a strong likelihood that a portion of the medication will be converted to a commodity for trade.

This publication is based upon research activities supported through a grant from the New York State Office of Drug Abuse Services. The conclusions stated herein are not necessarily those of that Office.