METHADONE SUBSTITUTION AND DRIVER ABILITY: RESEARCH FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS FROM A DISCUSSION OF EXPERTS.

Since 1987 methadone substitution programmes have been in use in Germany. They were introduced with the aim of decriminalizing and rehabilitating drug addicts. Instead of illegal drugs, especially heroin, addicts are given methadone under medical supervision. Methadone is considered a legally prescribed drug but patients taking methadone will generally remain addicted to it for good. Since these programmes are promising, the number of methadone patients is expected to increase. Therefore, the question of driver fitness under the influence of methadone is increasingly important especially since holding a valid driving licence often profoundly affects social and occupational integration of the addict. (Author/publisher).