It became clear that, in order to fully implement the intent of the streamlining initiative, CSAVR, its member state agencies, and RSA needed to agree on some fundamental changes in policy and practice. To accomplish its goal, the RSA provides its members with leadership and service.
Methadone was introduced into the United States in 1947 by Eli Lilly and Company as an analgesic under the trade name Dolophine, which is now registered to Roxane Laboratories. Since then, it has been best known for its use in treating opioid dependence.
Because the high dosages used in preliminary testing of methadone caused substantial side effects, the drug was not used clinically for several years.1 During the 1950s, methadone emerged as a treatment for opioid addiction and has remained the primary therapy for this condition for more than 40 years.