Medication-assisted Treatment for Injecting Drug Users in Vietnam

HIV continues to spread around the world and new infections in Asia are one of the most important areas for prevention among drug using populations. There is strong and consistent evidence from several countries that while injection drug users (IDU) continue to be a source of new infections, treatment of opiate addiction is an effective prevention measure against further spread. The project evaluated the implementation of a comprehensive opioid use disorder treatment program co-located with an HIV clinic in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The program includes medication for opioid use disorder (methadone, buprenorphine/naloxone), standardized counseling sessions (BDRC) and HIV testing and care (for people living with HIV).