Minn. Sanctions Mpls-Based Methadone Provider

ST. PAUL (AP) - State regulators have sanctioned a Minneapolis-based methadone provider for allegedly violating policies on dispensing methadone.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services placed Specialized Treatment Services on a three-year conditional license and ordered it to pay a $1,200 fine.

The agency cited STS for inappropriately authorizing adjustments of methadone doses, inappropriately giving a take-home dose, using pre-signed authorization forms and failing to have a registered nurse on duty.

A department spokeswoman tells the St. Paul Pioneer Press the conditional status would apply to Specialized Treatment Services' current facilities in Minneapolis and Brooklyn Park, plus any new facility opened during the three-year period. STS plans to open a new clinic in St. Paul.

Methadone is used to treat withdrawal from heroin and opiate addiction.

STS did not return a call Monday.