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A General Method for Evaluating Deep Brain Stimulation Effects on Intravenous Methamphetamine Self-Administration
Published on: January 22, 2016
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Cognitive function is largely intact in methadone maintenance treatment patients
Odelia Elkana1, Miriam Adelson2, Glen M Doniger3,4
1a Behavioral Sciences , Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo , Tel Aviv , Israel.
Summary
Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) patients generally show normal cognitive function, even with take-home dose (THD) privileges. This study challenges the assumption that MMT is linked to cognitive impairment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is a cornerstone for opioid use disorder management.
- Previous research suggested potential cognitive impairments in MMT patients.
- The impact of take-home dose (THD) privileges on cognition in MMT patients requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm previous findings of preserved cognitive function in MMT patients with THD privileges.
- To assess cognitive domains including attention, executive function, memory, and motor skills.
- To investigate the relationship between MMT duration, substance use, and cognitive performance.
Main Methods:
- A random sample of 65 Israeli MMT patients was studied.
- Computerized, age and education-standardized cognitive tests were administered.
- Non-computerized verbal fluency tests (phonetic and semantic) were also used.
Main Results:
- Most cognitive scores were within ±1 standard deviation of average.
- Verbal fluency and memory were slightly below average (>1 SD).
- Cognitive domains were comparable between THD privilege subgroups, and no significant differences were found.
Conclusions:
- MMT patients, including those with THD privileges, generally exhibit cognitive function within normal limits.
- Findings challenge the perception of MMT being synonymous with cognitive compromise.
- Results may help reduce stigma and bias concerning the cognitive abilities of MMT patients.
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