Eighty-three per cent of a sample of 116 drug addicts in a Sydney
methadone treatment programme were successfully followed up.
Methadone was not found to be "the quick cure" for
opiate addiction. More than two-thirds were still taking
methadone, only 3% had not taken any
opiates for six months or longer, and a further 5% had not taken any
opiates for less than six months. The remainder (22%) were using illegal
opiates either regularly or intermittently, or were in gaol. However, from the employment, crime and social-emotional stability data, it may be concluded that the
methadone programme, particularly if adhered to continuously, is "successful". These findings generally support the findings of overseas studies. The clients, especially those who were still adhering to the programme, felt that
methadone was helpful, although there was concern about still being
drug-dependent and about side effects.