In this review:
This publication presents an overview of opioid dependence and its diagnosis and treatment. The pharmacological approaches to the treatment of opioid dependence are managed withdrawal and substitution treatment. Opioid withdrawal is not generally associated with successful long-term outcomes, as relapse after opioid withdrawal is frequent. Also, a single detoxification episode should not be promoted as effective treatment. Therefore, the focus of this publication in terms of treatment is on opioid substitution treatment (OST).
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