Methadone maintenance in the small community drug abuse clinic.

Innovative treatment techniques such as self-regulation of methadone dosage and client knowledge of dosage are not widely accepted by small community methadone maintenance programs. Take-home medication is more generally utilized. This study compares a traditional program approach with a nontraditional approach utilizing self-regulation, client knowledge of dosage, take-home medication, and a nonpunitive staff attitude in a small methadone clinic. Clients were attracted to the nontraditional program at a higher rate and stayed in treatment longer. The nontraditional approach was associated with higher client productivity in work and school. Clients attracted to the nontraditional program used drugs more frequently during treatment.