Abstract
The purpose of this article is to discuss methadone maintenance as a treatment approach for chronic heroin addiction. Data presented indicate that heroin use is on the rise and that heroin-related deaths are increasing. The history and epidemiology of heroin use in the United States, the process of addiction, signs and symptoms of withdrawal, and complications of heroin use are reviewed. Several approaches exist to treat heroin dependence. Two treatment approaches are presented: detoxification and maintenance. The focus of the article is on methadone maintenance treatment, including goals of treatment, program requirements, staff composition, and treatment modalities. Expanding roles for nurses working in methadone maintenance are discussed, and suggestions are offered for improving the treatment of heroin-addicted individuals in methadone maintenance treatment programs.