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From: Dr. Vincent Dole <dole@rockefeller.edu>
To: Dora Weiner Foundation <DWF123@earthlink.net>
Cc: <nama@netmonger.net>, <josephh@oasas.state.ny.us>,
<RNEWMAN@CHPNET.ORG>
Date: Thursday, February 6, 2003 3:55 PM
Subject: Re: FW: ibogaine and methadone presentation


Dear Howard...


The reason for greater success in the early years of methadone
treatment was our emphasis on benefit to each patient.. Marie
Nyswander and I were fully in agreement on this objective :
She with a deep insight into the dynamics of human behavior
coupled with an unusual concern for the welfare of each patient..
And I from the perspective of a responsible internist who sees
clinical problems in the context of environmental determinants..


There was no secret in our procedure-- In fact we did our best
to convey the fact that methadone (or any other effective medicine)
is at best only a means to correct a disorder of chemical regulation
of body function.. The task of social rehabilitation varies with factors
in the environment-- experiences, handicaps, attitudes, opportunity
etc-- all of great importance to the individual.. When this perspective
guides treatment of heroin addicts, the results will be equal to or better
than ours..


My concern is that the medical profession has been unable to
provide leadership to guide public understanding of this complex
issue and thus to govern public health policy.. Most physicians
are confused.. ..The vacuum of understanding is filled with legislation
and prejudice..


My hope for the future is that basic research will reveal the biochemical
disorders that produce compulsive appetites for various drugs..
Discovery of a medicine, methadone, that can reverse (or compensate
for) the disorder that drives heroin addiction has been of practical
importance.. The next big step is to discover how it works...


Best wishes, Vincent

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