IMPACT OF ACUTE COVID-19 INFECTION ON BEHAVIORAL PATTERNS IN PATIENTS RECEIVING OPIATE AGONIS TREATMENT WITH METHADONE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52340/jecm.2025.04.28Keywords:
COVID-19, Methadone Maintenance Treatment, Opioid, Substance Use, Home DosingAbstract
This study assesses the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on Methadone maintenance therapy. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 120 patients with MMT to evaluate demographic factors, exposure to COVID-19, compliance with public health measures, emotional well-being, and substance use behaviors.
More than half of the patients had laboratory confirmed COVID-19, nearly a third required emergency medical care. During the pandemic, 29.17% of patients have increased their methadone dose, similarly, alcohol and sedative use significantly rose. Implementation of take-home dosing was introduced to ensure treatment continuity and reduce virus exposure, resulted in misuse in some cases – patients reported injecting, sharing or exchanging methadone for other illicit substances.
The study highlights the importance of tailoring treatment to individual needs rather than applying general policies. It shows that for the safety and effectiveness of MMT during public health crises, there should be improved monitoring, increase awareness and balanced policies that prioritize both access and safety.
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