Methadone Saves Lives

Opioid addiction: A real problem in Ontario

An estimated 30,000 people in Ontario have an opioid addiction. Dealing with this issue requires resources, patience and care.

While the roots of the problem are complex, the facts speak for themselves. This isn’t just about heroin. The majority of people currently seeking treatment for opioid addiction are using prescription medications, obtained either legally or illegally. Many who experience opioid addiction are reluctant to seek help; those who do often fail to get the treatment and support they need.

Commonly misused prescription drugs

• oxycodone (e.g., Percocet)
• codeine (e.g., Tylenol #3, Tylenol #1)
• morphine
• hydromorphone (e.g., Dilaudid)
• meperidine (e.g., Demerol)

"Opioid dependence is a growing problem in our communities and our practices. As health professionals, we need to respond”
Peter Selby, MBBS, CCFP
CAMH

MMT: A proven method of care

Methadone maintenance treatment is a medically recognized pharmacotherapy that, when combined with counselling and other psychosocial supports, is the gold standard treatment for opioid addiction.

Methadone is a long-acting opioid that helps manage cravings and alleviates symptoms of withdrawal. That means people on methadone are less inclined to resort to risky or criminal behaviour in order to satisfy their addiction.

Methadone maintenance treatment helps patients return to healthy and productive lives.

"It is fundamental that methadone maintenance treatment be integrated into a wider scope of services"
Jean-François Martinbault
MMT Case Manager
Côte-de-sable, Ottawa

"Naturally, communities are concerned about issues of open drug use that create unsafe neighbourhoods. Methadone offers a solution to these issues”
Rob Boyd, Director, Oasis Clinic, Ottawa

Is methadone right for my clients?

MMT is a viable and proven treatment for opioid addiction, but it’s not for everyone. As with all treatments, clients need to be assessed to determine if it is the right treatment for them. 

Working with clients on MMT

Methadone maintenance treatment prevents a person from going into withdrawal. However, it is critical that people are treated with a comprehensive approach. Counselling and case management can support people in accessing needed services, rebuilding social supports and developing alternative coping strategies.

There are a variety of treatment options for people with opioid addiction. In order to match the needs of your clients to the appropriate treatment, it’s important to understand how methadone works, and who may or may not be suitable for this treatment. It’s also important that you can convey the risks and benefits of methadone treatment to your clients and inform them about what is involved in methadone treatment.

“Naturally, communities are concerned about issues of open drug use that create unsafe neighbourhoods. Methadone offers a solution to these issues” 
Rob Boyd,
Director, Oasis Clinic, Ottawa

"The perception of the scary client who doesn’t get better simply isn’t true. I can see changes in people very quickly after they start on the program”
Dr. Lisa Bromley 
Sandy Hill Community Health Centre, Ottawa

Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is a safe and effective program for managing opioid addiction – a complex and serious health and social challenge.

Visit MethadoneSavesLives.ca and consider MMT for patients dealing with opioid addiction issues

Methadone: FAQs

Methadone Maintenance Treatment

MMT isn’t just used to treat people who are dependent on heroin. In fact, more and more people in Ontario turn to methadone to treat an addiction to prescription painkillers.

A few years ago I got into trouble with drugs. It was a tough time –I was going through a nasty divorce and was very depressed. The good news is I got through it, thanks to counselling and methadone. Now I have a job and a good support system. My boss even covers for me when I have to pick up my take-home doses every week. It hasn’t been easy, but I can honestly say things are looking up.

Kelly, on MMT for 2 years

I experimented with drugs in my late teens. Before I knew it I was hooked on pills and in way over my head. When I finally did seek help, I was told to quit cold turkey. Big mistake. Fortunately, I found a treatment that helped me: counselling and methadone. I’ve got my life back.
Catherine, on MMT for 4 years

It hasn’t been easy getting the methadone I need to stay clean. I’ve hitchhiked through snowstorms and worse. One doctor thought I was just trying to get high. But I’m one of the lucky ones. Now I’ve got a clinic in my neighbourhood and I’m counselling teens. 
Sam, on MMT for 3 years 

Since I started on methadone, I’ve been free of the crushing physical and mental burden of using illegal drugs. I feel better, I look better – I’m even playing hockey with my son again.
Tony, 36, on MMT for 6 years<

My counsellor has been a solid force in trying to get to the bottom of my using. She never gives up on me. She makes me feel worthwhile, and her confidence in me really helps. 
Bonnie, 49, on MMT for 2 years

The whole stereotype that surrounds methadone prevents so many people from getting involved. People need to know that methadone is okay, that it works.
Beth, 42, on MMT for 4 years