Dynamic changes in methadone utilisation for opioid use disorder treatment: a retrospective observational study during the COVID-19 pandemic.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a major public health concern in the USA, resulting in high rates of overdose and other negative outcomes. Methadone, an OUD treatment, has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of overdose and improving overall health and quality of life. This study analysed the distribution of methadone for the treatment of OUD across the USA over the past decade and through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

Retrospective observational study using secondary data analysis of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Medicaid Databases.

Setting

USA.

Participants

Patients who were dispensed methadone at US opioid treatment programmes (OTPs).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcomes were the overall pattern in

SUBMITTER: Kennalley AL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10661065 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature