Predictors of Poor Adherence to Methadone Maintenance Treatment in Yunnan Province, China

BACKGROUND: China initiated the methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) program since 2004. The main challenge has been poor clinic adherence, which has a serious impact on treatment efficacy. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to identify predictors of poor adherence to MMT in Yunnan Province, China. METHODS: We performed a case-control study of 764 patients, newly enrolled or re-enrolled on MMT programs, between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2011. Information was obtained from clinic databases. RESULTS: The frequency of poor adherence was 561 (73.43%). Lower daily methadone dosage (<60 mg) was significantly associated with poor adherence (odds ratio 4.07; 95% confidence interval, 2.88-5.74; P value < 0.001). Younger age was also a significant predictor of poor adherence (odds ratio 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.05; P value < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Higher dosage of methadone is recommended as a way to improve treatment adherence.