A comparison of methadone and buprenorphine–naloxone as opioid substitution therapy: the patient perspective in NHS Lanarkshire

Abstract

This article was designed to assess the viewpoint of patients in NHS North Lanarkshire, on the use of buprenorphine–naloxone versus methadone for opioid substitution. Ninety patients from NHS Lanarkshire were questioned on comparing methadone and buprenorphine–naloxone treatment. Only one significant comparison was obtained from statistical analysis conducted (p < 0.05). This was evident for drug (methadone/buprenorphine–naloxone) and patient preference. The article finds that in comparison to methadone, patients receiving buprenorphine–naloxone were highly positive about their treatment experiences and its advantages over methadone, including the “clear-headed response”, improved well-being and concentration, possibility of less social stigma, reduced craving, decreased side effects (especially drowsiness) and easier to withdraw from. As a result, about 57% of patients would consider buprenorphine–naloxone treatment in the near future.

• Addiction
• buprenorphine naloxone
• methadone
• treatment