These Guidelines review the use of medicines such as methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone and clonidine in combination with psychosocial support in the treatment of people dependent on heroin or other opioids. Based on systematic reviews of the literature and using the GRADE approach to determining evidence quality, the guidelines contain specific recommendations on the range of issues faced in organizing treatment systems, managing treatment programmes and in treating people dependent on opioids.

Developed in collaboration with internationally acclaimed experts from the different regions of the globe, this book should be of interest to policy makers, program managers, and clinicians everywhere who seek to alleviate the burden of opioid dependence.