Opiate dependence is a major public health problem associated with the transmission of deadly diseases (human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], hepatitis), criminal activity, accidental overdose, hospital admissions, and death. The treatment of opiate dependence is controversial, and in most patients, a lifelong duration is probably required.1 Methadone is a synthetic opiate primarily used in the detoxification and maintenance of patients who are dependent on opiates—particularly heroin—and the treatment of patients with chronic, severe pain. In the United States, methadone may be prescribed by physicians and dispensed by community pharmacies for analgesia as a Schedule II drug under the regulations of the Controlled Substances Act. However, when used for the treatment of opiate dependence, methadone's accessibility is restricted to practitioners, clinics, and pharmacies licensed by the Food and Drug Administration for this purpose.