A Study of the Sexual Function, Sleep, and Weight Status of Patients after 6 Months of ‎Methadone Maintenance Treatment

Background: Methadone is a synthetic opioid and receptor agonist morphine; thus, its consumption has the effects and side effects of opioid. Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is used as an alternative treatment for people who are suffering from substance abuse and do not have the ability to with...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Noushin Parvaresh‎, Abdol Reza Sabahi, Shahrzad Mazhari, Hoda Gilani
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Kerman University of Medical Sciences 2015-01-01
Series:Addiction and Health
Subjects:
Online Access:https://ahj.kmu.ac.ir/article_84637_7e14c0bdadf7a1b212eaf2ff11515bca.pdf
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Summary:Background: Methadone is a synthetic opioid and receptor agonist morphine; thus, its consumption has the effects and side effects of opioid. Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is used as an alternative treatment for people who are suffering from substance abuse and do not have the ability to withdraw. Despite its benefits, this drug also has side effects. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of methadone treatment on sexual function, sleep, and weight after 6 months. Methods: The study subjects consisted of 200 patients who had referred to the Methadone Clinic of Shahid Beheshti Training Hospital, Kerman, Iran, during a 6-month period and were treated using MMT. Data collection tools consisted of the demographic questionnaire, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX). The questionnaires were completed by the participants before and 6 months after the treatment. Findings: The results of this study showed that methadone consumption has significant effects on sexual dysfunction, sleep disorders, and weight gain. Conclusion: The consideration of the side effects of MMT can result in consumers’ commitment to the treatment.
ISSN:2008-4633
2008-8469