Methadone Maintenance Treatment Program in Portuguese Community Pharmacies

MMT (Methadone maintenance treatment) is an effective way to treat opioid dependence. In Portugal, an MMT program has been available in pharmacies since January 1998, when a formal agreement was signed by the IDT, I.P. (Institute on Drugs and Drug Addiction), the PPS (Portuguese Pharmaceutical Society), and the ANF (National Association of Pharmacies). In January 2004, the INFARMED (National Authority of Medicine and Health Products) became a partner of the program. The possibility of continuing the treatment at a community pharmacy was restricted to patients receiving a stabilized dose of methadone at IDT, I.P. treatment centers. Pharmacists joining the MMT were given mandatory training. Patients on the MMT program received daily doses of methadone solution under directly observed therapy, and were followed up by trained pharmacists. From January 1998 to January 2013, 3,090 patients underwent MMT in Portuguese community pharmacies. The delivery of MMT at community pharmacy level is feasible. This strategy improves access and adherence to methadone treatment, thus helping to reduce the use of illegal opioids. Community pharmacists fully demonstrated their ability to perform extended roles in public health and harm-reduction strategies. Interaction and close cooperation between the different health professionals and organizations involved were crucial to achieve adequate support to the patients.