Vol. 1 No. 6 (2021)
Health Technology Reviews

Laxatives and Erectile Dysfunction Medications to Treat Side Effects of Opioid Agonist and Methadone Maintenance Therapy

Published June 21, 2021

Key Messages

  • Opioid agonist and methadone maintenance therapies are essential medical interventions for effectively managing opioid use disorder. However, side effects, including constipation and erectile dysfunction can compromise treatment adherence and increase the risk of relapse.
  • No studies or guidelines describing the clinical effectiveness or recommendations for the use of laxatives or erectile dysfunction medications in the treatment of constipation or erectile dysfunction in patients undergoing OAT or MMT were identified.
  • Research is needed to understand the clinical effectiveness and inform guidance concerning the treatment of constipation with laxatives and the use of medications indicated for erectile dysfunction.