Background. The use of benzodiazepine (BDZ) by patients on methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) has the effect of complicating the clinical picture. The relative safety of BDZ use by methadone- or buprenorphine-treated patients has still not been systematically examined. It is not yet clear whether a maintenance strategy with clonazepam is a useful BZD treatment modality for BZD-dependent MMT patients with a long-term history of abuse and previous attempts at detoxification. Methods. In this study our aim has been to collect and present detailed information regarding the outcomes of a small group of our patients who were treated with clonazepam maintenance during methadone maintenance. Results. In our sample of BZD-dependent MMT patients, who were treated with a methadone-clonazepam combination, the retention rate, at 8 years, was 57.1%. Baseline-endpoint improvements were significant for clinical global impression and the level of social adjustment. Conclusions. Patients with a severe comorbid dependence, when treated with over-standard dosages of methadone and co-treated with CMT, may have outcomes that are satisfactory as long as they are maintained on their medication in the long term. © 2014, Pacini Editore S.p.A. All rights reserved.
Outcomes of clonazepam maintained benzodiazepine-heroin addicted patients during methadone maintenance: A descriptive case series
Maremmani, Angelo G. I.
;
2014-01-01
Abstract
Background. The use of benzodiazepine (BDZ) by patients on methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) has the effect of complicating the clinical picture. The relative safety of BDZ use by methadone- or buprenorphine-treated patients has still not been systematically examined. It is not yet clear whether a maintenance strategy with clonazepam is a useful BZD treatment modality for BZD-dependent MMT patients with a long-term history of abuse and previous attempts at detoxification. Methods. In this study our aim has been to collect and present detailed information regarding the outcomes of a small group of our patients who were treated with clonazepam maintenance during methadone maintenance. Results. In our sample of BZD-dependent MMT patients, who were treated with a methadone-clonazepam combination, the retention rate, at 8 years, was 57.1%. Baseline-endpoint improvements were significant for clinical global impression and the level of social adjustment. Conclusions. Patients with a severe comorbid dependence, when treated with over-standard dosages of methadone and co-treated with CMT, may have outcomes that are satisfactory as long as they are maintained on their medication in the long term. © 2014, Pacini Editore S.p.A. All rights reserved.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
