Effects of Information on the Opiate Withdrawal Syndrome

Abstract

Summary This study investigates the effect of information about withdrawal upon the subsequent withdrawal syndrome experienced by opiate addicts. Thirty addicts admitted to an inpatient treatment programme were randomly assigned to two groups. The ‘informed’ group was given full information about the withdrawal programme and the type and intensity of symptoms they might expect. The other, ‘uninformed’ groups received a general interview dealing with routine ward issues. All subjects were asked to complete the Opiate Withdrawal Scale during and subsequent to the detoxification procedure for a period up to 50 days. The informed group reported a significantly lower peak withdrawal score and lower levels of withdrawal symptomatology during the post‐methadone phase of treatment. In addition, the informed group were more likely to complete the methadone withdrawal programme. The implications of these results are discussed. In particular it is pointed out that this comparatively straightforward and low‐cost procedure can have considerable clinical benefits.