Examined the effects of hypnotherapy on the ability of 70 21–63 yr old methadone-maintained patients to reduce and/or eliminate their drug-taking behavior. Ss were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Experimental Ss received hypnotherapy for 6 mo in addition to the psychotherapy offered as standard clinic treatment. Controls received only psychotherapy. During treatment, Ss were assessed with a self-report physical discomfort questionnaire, urinalysis, and methadone medication logs. After treatment, a 6-mo follow-up was conducted by interviews. Groups were compared to determine significant differences in the number of successful withdrawals, the mean change in methadone dose level, incidence of illicit drug use, and degree of discomfort. Significant differences were found on all measures. The experimental group had significantly less discomfort and illicit drug use and a significantly greater number of withdrawals. At 6-mo follow-up, 94% of experimental Ss who had achieved withdrawal remained narcotic free. Results suggest that withdrawal might be a realistic treatment goal for those patients who have stabilized their addiction and are ready to regain their self-control. (23 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)