In the United States, there are approximately 1500 methadone clinics that are federally certified opioid treatment programs. There are generally two types of methadone clinics, public and private. The public clinics are generally cheaper to attend. However, there is usually a waiting list due to limited funding. The private clinics are more expensive to attend but usually have either a short or no waiting list. In many parts of the United States, methadone clinics are few and far between, which presents problems for addicts seeking methadone treatment who live far from a clinic. The greatest concentrations of clinics are in California, Maryland, New York, and New Jersey. All methadone clinics must register as an accredited opioid treatment program with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration and renew yearly or every three years based on the accreditation time frame awarded. Additionally, methadone clinics must register with the Drug Enforcement Administration before methadone can be dispensed. While not restricted to adults, this treatment method is generally not considered for people under the age of 18.
A methadone clinic, or substance use disorder services clinic (SUDS), is a clinic which has been established for the dispensing of medications used in the treatment of opiate dependence —historically and most commonly methadone, although buprenorphine is also increasingly prescribed. Medically assisted drug therapy treatment is indicated in patients who are opioid-dependent or have a history of opioid dependence. Methadone is a schedule II (USA) opioid analgesic, that is also prescribed for pain management. It is a long-acting opioid that can delay the opioid withdrawal symptoms that patients experience from taking short-acting opioids, like heroin, and allow time for detoxification. In the United States, by law, patients must receive methadone under the supervision of a physician, and dispensed through an opioid treatment program certified by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
One of the critical elements of relapse prevention is to keep physically healthy. Addiction takes a toll on the body, which can, in turn, affect your mind and emotions. Focusing on the three most significant elements of health can strengthen your body and resolve for recovery:
Preventing relapse is easier when you know its mental and emotional signs. If you’re feeling moody, wanting to isolate yourself or struggling with anger, you are at higher risk of turning back to opioids. Mental signs include glamorizing your past drug use or fantasizing about using drugs again.