Methadone alternative on the cards according to HSE

An alternative to methadone for people addicted to heroin and related drugs could be more widely available within the first quarter of the year, according to the HSE.

Suboxone, produced as a tablet and typically taken under the tongue, is used as a treatment for patients with dependence on opioid drugs like heroin, morphine, and codeine. In late 2014, the HSE signalled it would consider reimbursing Suboxone for patients in the public health service.

According to the HSE, new legislation is required in order to provide for the re-imbursement of Suboxone in Ireland and “this legislation is scheduled for consideration in 2016”.