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Heroin Addiction and Related Clinical Problems: 2007, 09, 1 (pages: 35 - 44)

Opioid Substitution with Methadone and Buprenorphine: Sexual Dysfunction as a Side Effect of Therapy

Brown R. T., Zueldorff M.

Summary: Opioid substitution is the most widespread and well-researched treatment modality for opioid dependence. Methadone and buprenorphine are currently the most commonly used pharmacotherapeutic agents. Sexual dysfunction has been reported as an adverse effect of opioids including methadone and buprenorphine. The current article describes proposed mechanisms for sexual dysfunction as an adverse effect of methadone and buprenorphine, summarizes research conducted on subjects on these agents, and explores appropriate evaluation and intervention in the management of the types of sexual dysfunction most commonly encountered during opioid substitution treatment (libido, erectile, and orgasm dysfunction).