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Published on: January 22, 2016
Personality factors associated with methadone maintenance dose
Heather Murray1, R K McHugh, Evelyn Behar
1Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA. hwmurray@bu.edu
The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse
|September 30, 2008
Summary
Individuals with Cluster B personality traits require higher methadone doses for opioid dependence treatment. This finding highlights the influence of personality on medication management for opioid use disorder.
Area of Science:
- Addiction Medicine
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Methadone is a primary medication for opioid dependence treatment in the U.S.
- Personality pathology is prevalent in opioid-dependent populations.
- Cluster B personality traits are associated with substance use severity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between Cluster B personality pathology and prescribed methadone dosage.
- To test the hypothesis that patients with Cluster B traits receive higher methadone doses.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 54 individuals undergoing methadone maintenance treatment.
- Assessment of participants for symptoms consistent with Cluster B personality pathology.
Main Results:
- Participants exhibiting Cluster B pathology symptoms were prescribed significantly higher mean methadone doses.
- A clear association was found between Cluster B traits and increased methadone dosage.
Conclusions:
- Personality traits, specifically Cluster B, significantly influence methadone maintenance treatment.
- Clinical implications suggest personalized methadone dosing strategies may be necessary.
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