The Mauritian government has spent a substantial amount on methadone, a crucial component of the national risk reduction program, aimed at combating drug addiction and preventing HIV. According to documents tabled in parliament by the Ministry of Health, the total expenditure on methadone from July 2021 to June 2026 was Rs 116,386,610. This covers the acquisition of 149,385 liters of methadone.
A review of the expenditure reveals significant variability in costs and volumes purchased over the five-year period. In the 2021-2022 financial year, the government spent nearly Rs 9.7 million for 8,195 liters of methadone. However, in the 2023-2024 financial year, the expenditure surged to Rs 32.3 million for 57,700 liters purchased, representing a 234% increase in annual expenditure compared to 2021-2022.
The cost of methadone has fluctuated considerably, with the 2024-2025 financial year seeing the purchase of only 9,740 liters at a cost of over Rs 29 million. This translates to a significant variation in the unit price or associated costs. On an individual basis, the estimated monthly cost per patient is around Rs 1,363, or an average annual cost of Rs 16,356 per person.
The breakdown of costs includes Rs 369 for vials, Rs 412 for logistics, and Rs 582 for human resources. The methadone therapy program was introduced in 2006 to curb the spread of HIV, which was prevalent among injecting drug users, accounting for over 92% of new annual HIV cases. The program has been instrumental in providing support to patients.
Despite the substantial financial commitment to methadone purchases, there is a lack of data on the social reintegration of patients. The government has admitted to having no statistics on the percentage of patients employed or undergoing training, as no studies have been conducted. This highlights a gap in the program's effectiveness.
The management of methadone stocks remains a challenge, with 17,600 liters currently stored at the Central Supplies Division. This implies that 131,785 liters have been distributed to health establishments over the past five years. The government plans to align the program with the National Drug Control Master Plan 2026-2030 and open a new rehabilitation center at the Bruno Cheong Medical Centre.
As of July 10, 2026, the methadone therapy program has 8,118 beneficiaries across 70 dispensing points, including five sites in correctional facilities. The patient demographics show a high concentration among the active population, with 44.9% of beneficiaries aged between 35 and 49 years, and 33.5% between 25 and 34 years. The program is dominated by males, with 7,675 men and 443 women receiving treatment.
Key points
- The Mauritian government spent Rs 116.4 million on methadone between July 2021 and June 2026.
- The program has 8,118 beneficiaries across 70 dispensing points.
- There is a lack of data on the social reintegration of patients.
