Medication Dosing
The medications used in the treatment of opioid addiction (methadone, LAAM [levo-alpha-acetyl-methadol], and buprenorphine are those that are FDA approved) are used to stabilize clients, block euphoria, and eliminate withdrawal and craving. The initial dose of methadone should not exceed 30 mg of methadone and is individually determined by a physician following the history and physical examination. Dosing protocols are individualized.

Take-Home Medication
The Medical Director, with input from members of the clinical team, determines if a person is eligible for unsupervised take-home medications based on specified criteria and length of time in the program.

Medically Supervised Withdrawal (MSW)
Medically Supervised Withdrawal (MSW) is the term used for detoxification from methadone, since methadone itself should not be considered a toxic substance. This procedure is designed to eliminate the withdrawal syndrome. MSW may occur for a variety of reasons, and it should be physician-directed, be documented appropriately, and include supportive services and/or referral if necessary.