METHADONE CAN BE EFFECTIVE

Editor:

Although your article does point out some of the shortcomings of methadone
treatment, it falls short when reporting of the success stories as a result
of methadone.

Many people I have been in contact with over the years have all had the
same question, "When is West Virginia going to have a methadone center so
we don't have to live this way?"

Since the introduction of the treatment center, the people I am speaking of
have all tried conventional treatment and long-term treatment.

Many have stayed as long as six months. These people have all stayed on
methadone, ceased all illegal activity, gained useful employment and most
importantly, have not used any type of illegal or legal drug.

Any disease that requires medication to treat effectively is going to have
its abusers, but the good it can create far outweighs the abuse that may occur.

James Shingleton

Dunbar