Is it worth treating cases of heroin abuse as in-patients?

ABSTRACT

One hundred admissions of heroin abuse in a psychiatric unit were studied retrospectively for their compliance and adherence to hospital regimen. 64% ranged between 21-30 years of age, there were 92% males and students followed by merchants were the commonest population group [39% and 27%]. 71% of patients stayed less than three weeks which is the minimal period for hospital treatment and they discharged themselves against medical advice. 57% were admitted once, 22% twice, 12% thrice and 7% more than thrice. There is an obvious waste of psychiatric beds especially in developing countries where outpatient treatment of herion abuse is discouraged. These facts should outline the strategy for the treatment of herion abuse