Replacement Therapies Tend To Be The Most Controversial
Replacement Therapies Tend To Be The Most Controversial Of All Treatme
Replacement therapies tend to be the most controversial of all treatments for substance abuse and dependence. In particular, methadone maintenance has been the focus of much controversy and debate. Mary was a chronic heroin user, but eventually she hit “rock bottom” and decided to get help. Mary goes to a methadone clinic every day to get her methadone dose for the day. She is happy to be sober from heroin. However, her family does not understand. They see that Mary is still taking a drug every day and view her as still being dependent. Using your textbook and the Argosy University online library resources, research the controversy of methadone maintenance treatment for heroin users. Answer the following: In what ways is the treatment helpful or harmful? Is this a successful treatment for heroin dependence? Why or why not? Write your initial response in 150–200 words. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.
Paper For Above instruction
Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is a widely used approach for managing heroin dependence, but it remains highly controversial due to its perceived pros and cons. This therapy provides a legal, controlled opioid substitute that reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings, thus helping individuals stabilize their lives and avoid the dangers associated with illicit heroin use (Dole & Nyswander, 1965). Many studies support the effectiveness of methadone in decreasing illicit opioid use, criminal activity, and the risk of HIV transmission, highlighting its role in harm reduction (Mattick et al., 2009).
However, critics argue that methadone sustains dependence rather than cures it, raising concerns about long-term reliance on medication and the potential for overdose (Fischer et al., 2016). Some families and individuals may view daily medication as still being dependent, which can cause social stigma and hinder recovery efforts. Despite these concerns, research indicates that MMT is effective in promoting sobriety and improving quality of life when combined with counseling and social support (Gowing et al., 2014). Overall, methadone maintenance is considered a successful treatment modality for heroin dependence, especially when integrated into a comprehensive recovery plan.
References
Dole, V. P., & Nyswander, M. (1965). Methadone maintenance. Archives of Internal Medicine, 116(5), 547–550.
Fischer, G., Masson, C., & Cottencin, O. (2016). Long-term opioid maintenance treatment: Benefits and risks. Current Psychiatry Reports, 18, 33.
Gowing, L., Ali, R., & White, J. M. (2014). Buprenorphine for the management of opioid dependence. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (2), CD003467.
Mattick, R. P., Kimber, J., Davoli, M., & Ali, R. (2009). Buprenorphine maintenance versus placebo or detoxification for heroin dependence. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (3), CD002207.
Fischer, G., Masson, C., & Cottencin, O. (2016). Long-term opioid maintenance treatment: Benefits and risks. Current Psychiatry Reports, 18, 33.