Cost-effectiveness of extended buprenorphine-naloxone treatment for opioid-dependent youth: data from a randomized trial.

ABSTRACT:

Aims

The objective is to estimate cost, net social cost and cost-effectiveness in a clinical trial of extended buprenorphine-naloxone (BUP) treatment versus brief detoxification treatment in opioid-dependent youth.

Design

Economic evaluation of a clinical trial conducted at six community out-patient treatment programs from July 2003 to December 2006, who were randomized to 12 weeks of BUP or a 14-day taper (DETOX). BUP patients were prescribed up to 24 mg per day for 9 weeks and then tapered to zero at the end of week 12. DETOX patients were prescribed up to 14 mg per day and then tapered to zero on day 14. All were offered twice-weekly drug counseling.

Participants

152 patients aged 15-21 years.

Measurements

Data were collected prospectively during the 12-week

SUBMITTER: Polsky D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2967450 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature