Quote:
Originally Posted by drpgq
Really? I work a couple days a week near the John St. clinic and I wish it would move as the addicts totally bring down the block. I'm also pretty skeptical as to their effectiveness. If people actually quit for good, where would their business be?
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I'm skeptical that you work near there.
That's about as silly for me to say as it is for you to say that you are skeptical that methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is effective. There is a large body of scientific social and medical research that supports the use of MMT with empirical data.
Any nurse or physician specializing in public health will agree. MMT reduces the transmission of infectious diseases associated with IV drug use. MMT, even if it does not result in somebody quitting the drug permanently, may assist in improving social productivity. MMT reduces the death rate among drug users. MMT reduces cravings and blocks some of the euphoric effects assiciated with heroin. There are many other benefits as well.
My background: I'm a Registered Nurse and during my undergraduate time at McMaster I took a class (HTH SCI 4L02 - Research Project) where I was partnered with the City of Hamilton's
Alcohol, Drug & Gambling Services. We worked on a research project about MMT in Hamilton, and I can say for certain that it works. Also, I live around the corner from the clinic on John St. to which you are referring.