Predictors of Poor Adherence to Methadone Maintenance Treatment in Yunnan Province, China.

BACKGROUND

China initiated the methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) program since 2004. The main challenge has been poor clinic adherence, which has a serious impact on treatment efficacy.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to identify predictors of poor adherence to MMT in Yunnan Province, China.

METHODS

We performed a case-control study of 764 patients, newly enrolled or re-enrolled on MMT programs, between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2011. Information was obtained from clinic databases.

RESULTS

The frequency of poor adherence was 561 (73.43%). Lower daily methadone dosage (<60 mg) was significantly associated with poor adherence (odds ratio 4.07; 95% confidence interval, 2.88-5.74; P value < 0.001). Younger age was also a significant predictor of poor adherence (odds ratio 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.05; P value < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher dosage of methadone is recommended as a way to improve treatment adherence.