Feasibility of buprenorphine maintenance therapy programs in the Ukraine: first promising treatment outcomes.
BACKGROUND
Opiate substitution therapy (OST) in the Ukraine was not provided until 2004. As part of the introduction of OST, the first feasibility study was conducted in 2007. Six clinics in 6 cities were involved in providing OST and collecting data.


METHODS
A total of 151 opiate-dependent patients were given buprenorphine as a substitute, and a survey of substance use, HIV transmission risks, and legal and social status was conducted at baseline and at 6 and 12-month follow-up.


RESULTS
Illegal substance use and illegal activities and incomes were highly reduced, whereas employment rates and psychiatric problems improved. Retention was comparatively high (79.5%) after 12 months. No significant adverse events were reported.


CONCLUSIONS
A successful implementation of OST in the Ukraine is feasible.
Schaub
Michael
M
Research Institute for Public Health and Addiction, Zurich, Switzerland. michael.schaub@isgf.uzh.ch
Subata
Emilis
E
Chtenguelov
Victor
V
Weiler
Gundo
G
Uchtenhagen
Ambros
A
D000328:Adult; D002047:Buprenorphine / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009293:Opioid-Related Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014455:Ukraine / Q000453:epidemiology
D002047:Buprenorphine