At the time of writing there is evidence that methadone doesn't affect the course of H IV/AI DS. Studies also show that methadone is better for you than street heroin especially injected heroin which can accelerate the progression of HIV-related illness.

Drug treatment of HIV and its related infections is one of the fastest growing areas of medicine. Knowledge about how or if methadone reacts or affects the drugs now being used is being built up very quickly and will change from month to month as studies are completed. A book like this can't keep up with the pace of change, and no information is better than misinformation.

There are a few people who think that sugar may in some way damage your immune system - but even if this is true the amount of glucose syrup in methadone is quite small and unlikely to pose a risk. But glucose is bad for your teeth so keeping your teeth clean could help prevent infections of the mouth and gums (see page 12).

If you are HIV positive you can discuss your treatment with your:

GP and/or prescribing doctor

Drug worker

Local HIV/AIDS service

Pharmacist

The National AIDS Helpline
A freephone service - Tel: 0800 567123

Body Positive - Tel: 0171 373 9124 (7-1 0pm

Mainliners - Tel: 0171 737 3141 who should all have access to the latest information.