Opioid Pharmacotherapy Treatments

What is pharmacotherapy treatment?
Pharmacotherapy treatment is a an opioid replacement therapy that provides an opportunity for the opioid dependent person to eliminate their illicit drug use and enables the person to focus on improving their health and lifestyle before making the decision to become opioid free.

What types of treatment are there available?

• Methadone is available in two liquid forms, Methadone Syrup and Biodone Forte. Biodone is the same strength as methadone but contains fewer additives. It puts less strain on the liver to process and it is therefore better for people who already have Hep C or B.
• Buprenorphine (Subutex). This is in the form of a tablet, which is dissolved under the tongue.
• Buprenorphine plus naloxone (Suboxone). Taken the same way as Subutex.

In order to work out which one is best for you, you need to undergo an assessment and discuss the options with a prescribing doctor. For more information on the treatments contact MACS.

Hours of operation	Monday to Friday    9.30am to 5.00pm
Tollfree Number	1800 642 428

For more information on treatment options click here

If I have an opioid dependence do I have to go on a pharmacotherapy program?
There are a number of options of which pharmacotherapy is one. Another option is entering a detoxification program. When people have attempted detoxification a few times and find it does not help, a stabilization program will be advised. Most people find a short period at a clinic stabilizing their opioid dose then allows them to stabilize their lifestyles – work and home life as well. Long-term decisions can then be faced more realistically.

A Residential detoxification program or an outpatient program where medication is provided to reduce the severity of the symptoms is advised. For more information about non-pharmacotherapy options contact the Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) 9361 8000 - Sydney or 1800422599 - country NSW.

What is the process for getting started on a program?
By contacting MACS (1800 642 428) you can ask for a list of services in your area.

Private clinics that have a dosing fee are often more accessible than public clinics that are free and may have a long waiting period. There are a limited number of private prescribers who can organise for you to be dosed at a pharmacy.

After undergoing an assessment at the service, you will have an opportunity to discuss a treatment plan with your service provider. You are usually requested to sign a treatment agreement stating both your and the service provider’s responsibilities and rights. You will be started on a low dose that will be increased over a period of about one week. During that time you may experience some withdrawal symptoms. You may have a number of questions you would like answered in relation to the program guidelines. Your service provider should be able to answer those queries.
Alternatively you can contact the MACS line (1800 642 428).