American Society of Addiction Medicine
American Society of Addiction Medicine
Relationship Between Methadone Induction Dosing and Retention in Treatment in Opioid Treatment Programs
Relationship Between Methadone Induction Dosing and Retention in Treatment in Opioid Treatment Programs
Relationship Between Methadone Induction Dosing and Retention in Treatment in Opioid Treatment Programs
Thursday 28th August 2025
Explore methadone induction dosing's impact on retention in opioid treatment programmes with Dr. Sherrick's insights.
17 minutes
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American Society of Addiction Medicine
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Get the buttons here!Methadone Dosing: Balancing Retention and Risk
Episode Overview
- Higher initial methadone doses may improve retention rates.
- Observational studies show statistical associations but not causality.
- New regulations allow starting at 50mg methadone doses.
- Future research needed to balance dose effectiveness and safety.
- Trends suggest experimenting with higher doses in inpatient settings.
"Higher doses at day seven were associated with better retention at day 30", says Dr. Sherrick.
In this episode of Addiction Medicine: Beyond the Abstract, Dr. Shawn McNeil sits down with Dr. Robert Sherrick to discuss the intriguing dynamics between methadone induction dosing and retention in opioid treatment programmes. Dr. Sherrick, a seasoned expert in addiction medicine, brings a wealth of experience from his role as Chief Science Officer at Community Medical Services. He sheds light on the challenges faced in methadone dosing, especially during the crucial first weeks of treatment.
Methadone, although a longstanding treatment option since the 1960s, still poses questions regarding optimal dosing strategies that could impact patient retention and safety. The conversation explores how varying methadone doses can influence patient outcomes and retention rates, sparking curiosity about whether higher initial doses might be beneficial or risky. Dr. Sherrick also highlights the limitations of observational studies and the need for more robust research to understand the delicate balance between effective treatment and potential risks.
As regulations evolve, the discussion touches on the potential for higher initial dosing under new guidelines, offering a glimpse into future directions for opioid treatment strategies. With anecdotes from his extensive career and insights into ongoing research, Dr. Sherrick provides valuable perspectives for clinicians and anyone interested in the intricacies of addiction treatment. If you're curious about how methadone dosing could shape the future of opioid treatment programmes, this episode is a must-listen.