A mosque-based methadone maintenance treatment strategy: implementation and pilot results

Area of Science:

• Addiction Medicine
• Islamic Studies
• Community Health

Background:

• A novel Islamic-inspired methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) project was implemented in a mosque setting.
• This initiative explored the feasibility of integrating addiction recovery services within Muslim community networks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the rationale, implementation, and operational aspects of a unique MMT program.
• To present the outcomes for the initial cohort of participants in this mosque-based intervention.

Main Methods:

• The program combined methadone maintenance with peer and religious counseling.
• Thirty-six male Muslim heroin users participated, with data collected at baseline and 12 months.
• Assessments included urine tests and self-reported measures on drug use and quality of life.

Main Results:

• An 80% retention rate was observed at 12 months.
• Over 97% of participants tested negative for opioids and other substances at 12 months.
• Significant improvements were noted in drug use reduction, general health, and psychological and social functioning.

Conclusions:

• Mosques serve as viable locations for delivering medication-assisted recovery services.
• This approach offers an alternative model for addiction management within Muslim communities.
• Community-based recovery programs in places of worship warrant further consideration.