Randomized controlled trial proves effectiveness of methadone maintenance treatment in prison.

A study on methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) undertaken by the Correctional Service of Canada in 2001 demonstrated that MMT has a positive impact on release outcome and on institutional behaviour. Now, a new study undertaken in an Australian prison system has demonstrated that MMT also reduces drug use and injection in prisons. The implications of this study are far reaching. They suggest that in all jurisdictions where community-based programs operate, prison-based methadone programs should be introduced or expanded.