Many people who are addicted to hard drugs are under treatment and rehabilitation due to the many risks that exist as a result of the risky behavior. Most of these addicts risk contracting infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis (B or C) and even sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, there is a need to create rehabilitation programs to aid in the recovery and freedom from various forms of drug addiction. One of such therapy programs is the methadone maintenance therapy program. Research shows that this is one of the most effective programs in helping addicts fight with various forms of addiction (Weschsberg, 143).
Addictions to opiates are especially difficult to manage since they are significantly affected the functioning of the brain. Methadone is an effective agent in dealing with such addictions since it acts on the brain in various ways. Methadone is effective since it can block the sedation and euphoria that comes from the use of strong opiates such as heroin. Addicts are able to fight the strong cravings for using heroin. This is especially useful since it helps to wade off any temptations that come with relapse (Beusekom and Iguchi, 456). This also keeps withdrawal symptoms in check throughout the recovery period. Methadone is also an efficient agent in treating heroin addicts since it does not have any intoxicating effect. The addicts, therefore, slowly normalizes and starts carrying out normal activities. However, the excretion of this drug from the body system is slow hence its consumption must also be limited to once a day.
Addicts who have used the methadone maintenance treatment procedure have shown reduced or complete freedom from the use of injection drugs such as heroin. They also develop better family relations and improved performance in the workplace (Ward, 124). In view of all these factors, I think the use of the methadone maintenance can be considered an effective recovery procedure from heroin addiction.
Works Cited
Beusekom, I. van, and M. Y. Iguchi. A review of recent advances in knowledge about
methadone maintenance treatment. Santa Monica, CA: RAND, 2001. Print.
Ward, Jeff. Methadone Maintenance Treatment and Other Opioid Replacement Therapies.
Amsterdam: Harwood Academic Publishers, 1998. Print.
Weschsberg, Wendee. Methadone Maintenance Treatment in the U.S a Practical Question and
Answer Guide.. New York: Springer Pub. Co., 2007. Print.
