'Defeating the Dragon'--Can We Afford Not to Treat Patients with Heroin Dependence?(Opinion) (Report)
South African Journal of Psychiatry 2010, Oct, 16, 3
-
- 2,99 €
-
- 2,99 €
Descrizione dell’editore
A worrying increase in heroin use disorders has been noted in South Africa over recent years. Despite this, very limited treatment options exist in the state sector. This article provides a brief overview of the local extent of the problem and its implications, and discusses treatment options. It briefly investigates international treatment implementation strategies and makes suggestions for local policy. Opioid dependence is a remarkably persistent, often lifelong disease. It is a biological disorder, with genetic underpinnings and complex environmental and individual determinants, associated with characteristic neurological abnormalities and related behavioural changes. It should therefore be considered a medical disorder, best treated via a medical intervention model. (1)