Abstract
ABSTRACT Background Despite the increasing popularity of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) in Vietnam, little is known regarding the substance use patterns of Vietnamese MMT patients. With it being almost 15 years since the inception of MMT in Vietnam, it felt timely to undertake a systematic review on this topic. Objectives We conducted a systematic review of the peer-reviewed literature regarding substance use among MMT patients in Vietnam with three main objectives: 1) identify which types of substances are being used, 2) identify the extent of use (i.e., prevalence), and 3) identify knowledge gaps regarding drug use patterns. Methods After systematically searching four bibliographic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and PsycINFO), we included 20 studies involving 6,653 participants, published between 2012-2021 with 14 unique samples. Results Findings indicate that, on average, 81% of MMT patients used tobacco, 47% used alcohol, 32% used heroin, 24% engaged in injection drug use, and 12% used illicit drugs. Conclusion These results suggest that substance use is an active issue among Vietnamese MMT patients that warrants closer attention. These data can be used by providers to inform which/how interventions are targeted at MMT patients in Vietnam and help lower the number of overdoses seen across the country.
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.