Should Methadone Be Less Restricted?

Methadone is a highly monitored medication and clinics are required to abide by both state and federal guidelines. Suboxone, on the other hand, has fewer restrictions and is more easily available for people who need it. Some researchers and policy makers are suggesting that Methadone treatment is outdated and should be prescribed by private physicians, similarly to Suboxone. Listen to this opiate recovery support group as they discuss their opinions.

Discussion Guide:

Do you find the regulations and protocols of Methadone restrictive?

What are the pros and cons of these regulations and protocols?

Would you prefer that Methadone be prescribed through private physician practices, much like Suboxone?

If so, would Methadone be easily diverted to the street?

Or would you prefer that Methadone clinics, as they currently operate, be more available?

Supplemental Reading:

Gary Enos, Behavioral Healthcare Executive, Leaders Call Restricting Methadone Treatment to Clinic Settings Outdated, http://www.behavioral.net/article/prescription-drug-abuse/leaders-call-restricting-methadone-treatment-clinic-settings

Jeffrey Samet, Michael Botticelli, and Monica Bharel, Opinion: It’s Time for Methadone to Be Prescribed as Part of Primary Care http://atforum.com/2018/07/opinion-its-time-for-methadone-to-be-prescribed-as-part-of-primary-care-by-jeffrey-samet-michael-botticelli-and-monica-bharel/

Terry DeMio and Sarah Brookbank, Suboxone: Prescribed for Addiction, Diverted to the Streets – an Instant Relief for Withdrawal, http://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2018/07/20/opioid-addiction-suboxone-found-streets-gets-attention-cops-users/755559002/