Role of rehabilitation centres in reducing drug abuse problem in a town of Eastern Nepal.

OBJECTIVES: This paper focuses to describe the role and activities of Drug Rehabilitation Centres (DRCs) in reducing the drug-abuse problem in Dharan. It also offers suggestions for increasing the effectiveness of prevention programs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Records of three DRCs working in Dharan for the past 9 years were analyzed using appropriate statistical tools. RESULTS: The yearly clean rate is significantly higher in these centres. Harm reduction program was currently available only in one centre. Pharmacotherapy along with short-term rehabilitation was available at de-addiction unit of B. P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences whereas long-term rehabilitation was at others centres. CONCLUSION: Thus, there should be a strong coordination and network with each other to increase the effectiveness of the treatment program for drug abuse. The treatment centres should be increased in number as well as in quality. BPKIHS should take initiation to start long-term management with repeated booster programs.