Abstract
Background: Opioid dependency is a risk factor for several negative life events and conditions. The opioid receptor inhibitor extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) is safe and effective in reducing illicit substance use. Here, we report results of a naturalistic, multicentre, open-label trial of XR-NTX for 24 weeks, with an optional 28-week treatment extension (NaltRec study).
Aims: The study aims were to compare sociodemographic and clinical variables between patients choosing XR-NTX (n=162) and those in opioid agonist treatment (OAT) (n= 155), and to compare these variables in the XR-NTX group between patients who were (n= 103) and were not (n= 59) in OAT before study inclusion.
Methods: To measure objective-related factors, we used a structured interview at inclusion.
Results: The XR-NTX group had fewer women, was younger and reported poorer living and social conditions than the OAT group. Both groups had serious health conditions. Across groups, 40% percent reported lifetime suicide attempts, and 60% reported abusive experiences, with 47% women and 17% men reporting sexual abuse. Age at onset of polydrug use was 20 years. Patients preferring XR-NTX to OAT reported poorer social conditions compared with those choosing OAT. Conclusions: Women and patients who are not stabilized before enrolment need specific attention to tailored supportive measures during treatment with extended-release naltrexone.
Citation
Weimand, Bente Margrethe; Karlsson, Ann Tarja; Solli, Kristin Klemmetsby; Vederhus, John-Kåre; Mordal, Jon; Digranes, Linn Camilla Wergeland & Tanum, Lars Håkon Reiestad (2023). Characteristics of opioid-dependent patients choosing antagonist treatment with extended-release naltrexone compared with patients in opioid maintenance treatment in Norway. Heroin Addiction and Related Clinical Problems. ISSN 1592-1638. 25(4), s. 5–14.