Document Type

Poster

Associated Faculty

Dr. Valerie Herbert

Sponsoring Academic Department

School of Nursing

Publication Date

2024

Abstract/ Summary

Methadone is a medication used to treat Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and is taken daily to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings for opioids. Side effects of methadone can include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, night sweats, and drowsiness. Although males and females have different anatomical and hormonal makeups they both can have OUD and may require methadone as a treatment option. This proposes the question of in females > 18 years of age experiencing opioid use disorder, how does receiving methadone treatment, compared to the treatment of males > 18 years of age impact recovery outcomes? A literature search was conducted using CINAHL and PubMed including the following search terms: methadone treatment, opioid use disorder, gender, female vs. male, over 18, effectiveness, and side effects. A total of 12 articles met the inclusion criteria. Criteria excluded from the search included individuals below the age of 18, non-peer-reviewed articles, and literature before 2019. The literature shows there are no gender disparities when it comes to the effectiveness of methadone itself. However, females who undergo methadone treatment for OUD have a lower success and compliance rate due to psychosocial or health factors compared to men. Additionally, the literature indicates males are more likely to be employed when beginning treatment in comparison to females which aids in compliance with treatment helping to prevent relapse or withdrawal. In conclusion, gender anatomy does not impact the effectiveness of methadone treatment, but external factors can negatively impact compliance with treatment, which is more favorable in males.

Version

pre-print (i.e. pre-refereeing)

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