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Sexual dysfunction in men on buprenorphine - naloxone-based substitution therapy
Surendra K Mattoo1, Abhishek Ghosh1, B N Subodh1
1Department of Psychiatry, Drug De-Addiction and Treatment Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, Odisha, India.
Sexual dysfunction is common in men receiving buprenorphine-naloxone (BNX) substitution therapy, affecting 40% of patients. This highlights the need for routine screening and management of sexual health in BNX-treated individuals.
Area of Science:
- Addiction Medicine
- Sexual Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Limited research exists on sexual dysfunction in patients undergoing buprenorphine-naloxone (BNX) substitution.
- Opioid use disorder treatment often involves BNX, making sexual health a relevant concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and associated factors of sexual dysfunction in men receiving BNX therapy.
- To compare sexual function in BNX-treated men with a control group.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 40 men on BNX for ≥6 months, screened for illicit drug use and other psychiatric/substance use disorders, were assessed.
- Sexual dysfunction was evaluated using the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF).
- Data were compared with a control group from a prior study.
Main Results:
- 40% of men on BNX reported sexual dysfunction per ASEX.
- High rates of intercourse dissatisfaction (95%), hypoactive sexual desire (92.5%), and erectile dysfunction (77.5%) were observed via IIEF.
- Sexual dysfunction was significantly more prevalent in the BNX group compared to controls, with no correlation to BNX dose, duration, or patient demographics.
Conclusions:
- Routine screening for sexual dysfunction is crucial for all men on BNX maintenance therapy.
- Integrating sexual dysfunction assessment and management into medical training is recommended due to the increasing use of BNX.
- Addressing sexual health is essential for comprehensive care in opioid use disorder treatment.
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