Near 40 per cent receiving methadone treatment are on it for more than 10 years
By Maurice Garvey
CLOSE to 40 per cent of people receiving methadone treatment have been doing so for over ten years – a worrying trend, according to Fianna Fáil TD John Curran, reports Maurice Garvey.
Recent figures Deputy Curran received from the HSE state that 4,069 people out of 10,316 people in receipt of methadone treatment are on this treatment for 10 years or more.
Concerned: John Curran TD (left)
“It is very worrying to learn that many people who are on methadone treatment are now on it for over 10 years with no plan or goal of getting off the drug – this is simply methadone addiction,” said Deputy Curran.
“In two years the number of people who have been in receipt of methadone treatment for over ten years has increased by 429 people.
“Also, 6,262 people are on methadone treatment five years or more, indicating a further rise of people in receipt of methadone for over five years since 2016 of 494.”
Whilst recognising treatment is positive step in the right direction for people addicted to heroin and other opioid use, Curran said there must be “progressive pathways for people” on methadone treatment.
“Clear national protocols on specific referral pathways are needed to facilitate people with a road to full recovery,” he said.
“More attention and focus must be given on progression and rehabilitation.”
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