Gender Differences among HIV Patients on Methadone Maintenance and
Enrolled in an Antiretroviral Adherence Trial
This
study examined baseline gender differences among HIV-positive
methadone maintenance outpatients currently prescribed antiretroviral
medications. Participants were enrolled in a larger
clinical trial, which included a 4-week observation period using
electronic monitors to track medication adherence.
Results
Contrary to previous literature,
no significant differences were detected between men (n = 42)
and women
(n = 36) on medication adherence or
depression.
Both groups showed remarkably
poor adherence during baseline (M = 56% of doses taken on time),
high overall prevalence of depression (47%) and illicit cocaine
use (47%).
Women reported significantly
more medication side effects (M = 21.4 vs. 14.9), higher severity
of ASI psychiatric
problems (M = 0.50 vs. 0.40), and lower SF-36 health-related
quality of life in physical (M = 42.1 vs. 63.3) and emotional
functioning (M = 26.9 vs. 58.9) than men.
Women tested positive for
opioids at higher rates than men (53% vs. 29%, respectively),
whereas men were more likely to be positive for benzodiazepines
than women (26% vs. 6%, respectively).
The
authors conclude, “Findings suggest that gender differences between
male and female methadone maintenance patients have relevance
to treatment providers. Extensive assessment, specialized medical
care and mental health services may be warranted in the treatment
of HIV-positive female drug abusers.”
San
Francisco General Hospital,
CA, USA.
09/30/05
Reference
N
A Hung and others. Gender differences among HIV-positive methadone
maintenance patients enrolled in a medication adherence trial.
