Opioid Addiction Treatment in Australia
Opioid dependence — whether involving prescription opioids or illicit heroin — is a serious but highly treatable condition. Australia has world-class opioid treatment programs including pharmacotherapy, which dramatically reduces overdose risk and improves quality of life.
Signs of Opioids Dependence
- ✓Strong cravings and preoccupation with obtaining opioids
- ✓Tolerance — needing increasingly higher doses for the same effect
- ✓Withdrawal — nausea, aching, sweating, anxiety when not using
- ✓Continuing use despite health, relationship or legal problems
- ✓Neglecting responsibilities or interests in favour of drug use
- ✓Using opioids in ways other than prescribed (crushing, injecting)
Treatment Options for Opioids Addiction
Opioid pharmacotherapy (OTP)
methadone or buprenorphine (Suboxone) programs available nationally
Medically supervised withdrawal
inpatient or outpatient detoxification
Residential rehabilitation
abstinence-based or harm reduction programs
Naltrexone
monthly injection option for motivated individuals post-detox
Counselling and case management
addressing the psychosocial drivers of use
Needle syringe programs
reducing harms for those who inject
Providers Specialising in Opioids Treatment
See all →📍Albury, NSW
A community-based alcohol and other drug service run by public health service Albury Wodonga Health for reside...
📍South Launceston, TAS
Alcohol and Drug Services North is the Tasmanian Government's community alcohol and other drug team for the st...
📍Ulverstone, TAS
The north west arm of the Tasmanian Department of Health's Alcohol and Drug Services, based at 11 Grove Street...
📍Launceston, TAS
The northern arm of the Tasmanian Department of Health's Alcohol and Drug Services, based at 13 Mulgrave Stree...
📍New Town, TAS
The southern arm of the Tasmanian Department of Health's Alcohol and Drug Services, in the Carruthers Building...
📍Garran, ACT
Alcohol and Drug Services is the ACT public alcohol and other drug program run by Canberra Health Services fro...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between methadone and Suboxone?
Methadone is a full opioid agonist dispensed daily from pharmacies. Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) is a partial agonist that can be prescribed for takeaway doses sooner. Both are highly effective at reducing opioid use and overdose risk. A doctor will help determine which is appropriate for you.
Is opioid pharmacotherapy free in Australia?
Opioid treatment programs may be subsidised through the PBS and state health systems. Fees and eligibility vary. Ask a qualified health professional or service about local prescribers and pharmacies.
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