In:
European Addiction Research, S. Karger AG, Vol. 11, No. 3 ( 2005), p. 145-151
Abstract:
〈 i 〉 Aims: 〈 /i 〉 In addition to methadone, other synthetic opioids are now available for the treatment of opioid dependence. The study investigated the treatment satisfaction of oral slow-release morphine for maintenance therapy in opioid-dependent patients in an open-label 3-week study. 〈 i 〉 Design: 〈 /i 〉 We evaluated the treatment satisfaction of oral slow-release morphine hydrochloride for 3 weeks in 110 patients meeting the diagnosis of opioid dependence (DSM-IV 304.0) or polysubstance dependence (DSM-IV 304.9). 〈 i 〉 Measurements: 〈 /i 〉 Primary outcome measures were the study retention rate, urinalysis for additional illicit consumption other than heroin, cravings and withdrawal symptoms 24 h after the last intake of the medication (duration of action of treatment). 〈 i 〉 Findings: 〈 /i 〉 In total, 103 patients completed the study, representing a retention rate of 94%. Patients reported significant improvements in somatic complaints, as well as significant reductions in heroin and cocaine cravings (p 〈 0.0001) and in additional consumption of cocaine in supervised urinalysis (p = 0.0083). Additional illicit consumption of benzodiazepines remained unchanged. 〈 i 〉 Conclusions: 〈 /i 〉 The high study retention rate implies a good acceptance of slow-release acting oral morphine. However, randomised, double-blind, double-dummy studies with a longer investigational period are needed to meet criteria for evidence-based medicine.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1022-6877
,
1421-9891
Language:
English
Publisher:
S. Karger AG
Publication Date:
2005
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1482231-3
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