Effect of methadone maintenance therapy on sexual disorders in males: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Introduction Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is a popular method of treating opioid use disorder. However, the majority of drug-using males experience sexual dysfunction. Objectives This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the possible impact of MMT on sexual dysfunction in drug-using males. Methods Cochrane, Web of Science, ProQuest, PubMed, and Google Scholar are the international databases that we used in this study. There were neither temporal nor regional limitations on the search. Stata version 14 (StataCorp) was used for data analysis. Results When compared with the control group, the MMT group, as measured by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), exhibited significantly greater levels of intercourse satisfaction disorders (standardized mean difference [SMD], –0.52; 95% CI, –0.71 to –0.32), decreased sexual desire/drive (SMD, –0.44; 95% CI, –0.87 to –0.01), lower overall satisfaction (SMD, –0.27; 95% CI, –0.43 to –0.11), and reduced total IIEF score (SMD, –0.69; 95% CI, –0.92 to –0.47). According to the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale, the MMT group was substantially more satisfied with orgasm than the control group (SMD, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.31-0.86). As determined by the Sexual History Form, MMT was linked to a statistically significant increase in orgasmic dysfunction in comparison with the control group (SMD, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.10-1.20). The Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale revealed a significant decrease in men reporting sexual disorder following MMT as compared with their pretreatment levels. Conclusion As compared with control, MMT increased disorders of intercourse satisfaction, sexual desire/drive, and overall satisfaction according to the IIEF. MMT was also associated with a statistically significant decrease in various aspects of male sexual function as compared with pretreatment levels—including erectile function, intercourse satisfaction, orgasmic function, sexual desire/drive, and overall satisfaction. These findings highlight the importance of including sexual dysfunction screening in the routine care of male patients undergoing MMT.