The Norwegian Institute of Public Health has been commissioned by the Norwegian Directorate of Health to carry out a systematic review of effects of OMT compared to non-pharmacological treatments in people with opioid dependence, and of users’ and service providers’ experiences.
Previous research syntheses provide good evidence for beneficial effects of OMT: compared to patients in non-pharmacological treatments, OMT patients are better retained in treatment and use less heroin and other non-prescribed opioids. We cannot rule out that more recent studies may alter this picture. Further, patients’ experiences with OMT will have significance for recommendations in guidelines.