Opioid Maintenance Therapy

Overview

At The Pharmacy Network, our pharmacists at The Pharmacy on Bunda and The Pharmacy on Northbourne provide Opioid Maintenance Therapy (OMT), supporting patients receiving medicines such as methadone or buprenorphine as part of a structured treatment program.

This service is delivered in partnership with your prescriber and is focused on safe, consistent dosing, harm reduction, and ongoing support in a respectful, non-judgemental environment.

Requirements

To access this service, patients are required to sign and follow an agreement outlining expectations for safe and respectful care. Patients are also required to provide valid government-issued ID and a current photo for identification and safety purposes.

Service Restrictions

This service is only provided at The Pharmacy on Bunda and The Pharmacy on Northbourne.

What Is Opioid Maintenance Therapy?

Opioid Maintenance Therapy (OMT) involves the use of opioid therapy (such as methadone or buprenorphine) to support people with opioid dependence.

These medicines help to:

• Reduce withdrawal symptoms
• Decrease cravings
• Stabilise daily functioning
• Reduce the risk of overdose and harm

Opioid agonist treatment is an evidence-based approach to managing opioid dependence and improving health outcomes (NSW Health, 2021).

How Our Pharmacists Can Help

At The Pharmacy Network, our pharmacists will:

• Dispense your medication according to your prescribed dosing plan

• Provide supervised dosing where required

• Monitor for safety and adherence

• Offer support in a respectful, non-judgemental environment

• Liaise with your prescriber or treatment team as needed

Providing structured, supervised medicine supply and patient-centred care aligns with the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia Professional Practice Standards (PSA, 2017).

What to Expect at The Pharmacy Network

OMT is a structured program. Depending on your treatment plan, this may include:

• Daily or regular attendance at the pharmacy

• Supervised dosing in a private or semi-private setting

• Ongoing communication between your pharmacist and prescriber

Our pharmacists aim to provide care that is consistent, respectful, and supportive, helping you stay engaged with treatment.

Who This Service Is Suitable For

This service is for patients who:

• Have been prescribed opioid dependence treatment by an authorised prescriber

• Are enrolled in a structured treatment program

• Require regular dosing and monitoring

Our pharmacists work closely with your treatment team to support your care.

Privacy and Respect

We understand that this service is highly personal. At The Pharmacy Network, we are committed to:

• Providing confidential care

• Maintaining a non-judgemental environment

• Supporting patients with dignity and respect

When Additional Support Is Needed

If there are concerns about your treatment, our pharmacists may liaise with your prescriber to review your plan.

We can also help connect you with additional health or support services if needed.

Ongoing Support for Your Treatment

If you’re looking for Opioid Maintenance Therapy pharmacy services, methadone dosing near you, or buprenorphine support, our pharmacists at The Pharmacy Network are here to help.

Visit The Pharmacy on Bunda or The Pharmacy on Northbourne for structured, supportive care.

References

NSW Health. (2021). Opioid agonist treatment guidelines.

https://www.health.nsw.gov.au

Pharmaceutical Society of Australia. (2017). Professional Practice Standards.

https://www.psa.org.au/practice-guidance/professional-practice-standards/