Use of slow-release oral morphine for the treatment of opioid dependence.
OBJECTIVE
In addition to methadone, other synthetic opioids are now available for the treatment of opioid dependence. The study investigated the treatment satisfaction of oral slow-release morphine for maintenance therapy in opioid-dependent patients in an open-label 3-week study.


METHODS
We evaluated the treatment satisfaction of oral slow-release morphine hydrochloride for 3 weeks in 110 patients meeting the diagnosis of opioid dependence (DSM-IV 304.0) or polysubstance dependence (DSM-IV 304.9).


METHODS
Primary outcome measures were the study retention rate, urinalysis for additional illicit consumption other than heroin, cravings and withdrawal symptoms 24 h after the last intake of the medication (duration of action of treatment).


RESULTS
In total, 103 patients completed the study, representing a retention rate of 94%. Patients reported significant improvements in somatic complaints, as well as significant reductions in heroin and cocaine cravings (p < 0.0001) and in additional consumption of cocaine in supervised urinalysis (p = 0.0083). Additional illicit consumption of benzodiazepines remained unchanged.


CONCLUSIONS
The high study retention rate implies a good acceptance of slow-release acting oral morphine. However, randomised, double-blind, double-dummy studies with a longer investigational period are needed to meet criteria for evidence-based medicine.
Clinical Department of General Psychiatry, University Clinic of Psychiatry, Vienna, Austria.
Dominik
D
Kraigher
Reinhold
R
Jagsch
Wolfgang
W
Gombas
Romana
R
Ortner
Harald
H
Eder
Andjela
A
Primorac
Gabriele
G
Fischer
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009020:Morphine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009294:Narcotics / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009293:Opioid-Related Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*
D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D009294:Narcotics; D009020:Morphine