A related commentary discusses this research. It states that the study adds particular value in clarifying that the association between opioid agonist treatment and reduced offending risk is not straightforward, such that any protective effect diminished over time and was reduced with repeated exposure and briefer treatment contact. These observations underline the importance of providing high quality opioid agonist treatment of sufficient duration for patients to experience a therapeutic dose that is adequate for them to effect lasting change.
It suggests that that the findings further strengthen the evidence base supporting the treatment’s utility, and thereby strengthen the case for its more widespread and properly adequate provision.