The Substance Misuse Outpatients Unit, better known as the Detox, is exploring an alternative to the drug methadone, which to date is given to people who are addicted to heroin.
As many as 700 people a day take a dose of methadone, with the goal of reducing heroin addiction. Most people go in person every day to receive this dose, and this can create stigma and discomfort until this syrup is given.
That is why, after an internal study, a pilot project will be launched over a number of months so that instead of methadone, the buprenorphine tablet will be given, which also has the same goal of reducing the heroin drug addiction.
Buprenorphine is a tablet form, which can be given in a much larger amount, and there is no need for a person to go for this medication every day. This tablet also has fewer side effects and does not carry a risk of overdose.
These details were announced by the Minister for Social Policy and the Rights of the Child Michael Falzon during a visit to the Substance Misuse Outpatients Unit in Gwardamanga.
Minister Falzon praised the way this place operates, with a multi-disciplinary team of 4 doctors, 8 nurses, 2 social workers and pharmacists.
“I believe we must continue to strengthen our services. Our country has always been at the forefront of addiction treatment. We want to become a center of excellence, so that patients have the best care they really deserve. There is a family behind every victim, and every case deserves the utmost attention even if it requires continuous investment, ”concluded Minister Michael Falzon.
