Sexual function of 612 male addicts treated by methadone.

OBJECTIVE

To determine sexual function in 612 male addicts with methadone maintenance therapy (MMT), analyze its cause and explore the treatment strategies.

METHODS

Self-made questionnaire and International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) were used in 612 male addicts receiving MMT.

RESULTS

The number of addicts who felt worse sexual function was significantly more than those who felt better sexual function (P<0.01). About 88.6% addicts were dissatisfied with their current sexual function, 90.7% of whom were willing to continuously receive MMT. The number of addicts suffering from hyposexuality and erectile dysfunction (ED) was significantly increased at post-MMT than at pre-MMT (P<0.01), while the number of addicts with normal sexuality and inhibitive ejaculation decreased significantly (P<0.01). Both the dose of methadone and the age of subjects were negatively correlated with IIEF-5 scores. Correlation between the duration of MMT and IIEF-5 scores was not found.

CONCLUSION

MMT might deteriorate sexual function in male addicts. To improve the compliance of MMT and sexual function in male addicts, the dose of methadone should be adjusted to minimally effective one.