METHADONE CLINIC FOR DRUG TREATMENT

A methadone clinic is being established in Kenora to help curb a problem
that has been in the underground for some time.

This controversial method of drug treatment is what some people who are fed
up with their addiction turn to because of its effective way of quenching
the cravings. Methadone does not make a person high nor does it offer a
person an instant fix to a drug problem, said Marlene Mymryk, community
programs co-ordinator.

"You can go back to work and function in a normal way," she said. "In some
sense if gives that person back their life."

Methadone is a treatment prescribed by a doctor and administered to a
person on a daily basis under supervision. It's a liquid drink absorbed by
the body to stop drug cravings usually uncontrollable by the person. The
methadone impacts the same receptors in the brain which crave an addictive
substance and allows the person to stabilize themselves.

"They're (methadone clinics) extremely, extremely, tightly regulated," said
Mymryk.

At the moment the clinic isn't officially open but it has been generating
buzz in the community -- nearly 50 people have already contacted organizers
as to how they can get more information. By mid-February, the program will
begin under the auspices of Addiction Services Kenora and accommodate up to
about 50 people at first -- in the future organizers want to have as many
as 100 if needed.

Methadone treatment seekers previously had to re-locate to Winnipeg or
Thunder Bay -- this way it will help rehabilitate them where they're
comfortable.

"It's not just a methadone clinic," said Dr. Sean Moore, chief of staff at
the Lake of the Woods District Hospital and part organizer of the clinic.
"It's a need-driven pilot project."

Those interested in the program must have already tried to axe their
addiction before turning to methadone. Each person is assessed individually
to get the help they need, not just a quick fix, said Moore. Counseling is
a major part of the program which helps each person with the problems they
are having while getting back to normal, as well it helps them deal with
the past. Mymryk said it's a team approach because they want these people
to succeed rather than fall back on their habit.

A clear urine test must be passed regularly. Although methadone users
cannot feel the impact their drug of choice would normally give them, they
can take it regardless because it's become very habitual.

A contract is signed between the clinic and the person seeking services to
help ensure they stick with their outlined program.

Some users stay on methadone for very long periods of time, while others
are much shorter. But on average, pointed out the methadone maintenance
treatment client handbook, users are on it for one to two years.

More information can be found by calling community programs at 467-3555.