Abstract
Background: The reasons for, and the extent of, misuse of prescribed substitution medication as well as parallel consumption of other drugs during substitution-based therapy have still not been adequately researched in Germany. Methods: This study examines the use of substitution medication in German substitution clinics utilizing a nationwide survey with anonymised questionnaires. Results: The analysis of the 605 questionnaires showed a 30-day consumption prevalence of 8.8% with regard to misuse of substitution substances. The lack of available heroin (38%) and the lack of open spots in treatment programs (21%) were quoted as being the main reasons for the misuse of substitution medication. Conclusion: Although the misuse of substitution medications is considered an important problem, our study showed that the current misuse was prevalent only among a minority of the patients. German regulations focused on the avoidance of misuse might be partially contributing to the problem.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.