Bupropion in Methadone Induced Erectile Dysfunction

Background: Use of opioids is associated with hypoactive sexual desire, erectile and orgasmic dysfunction. 16-30% of patients in methadone-maintained Therapy (MMT) may develop erectile dysfunction (ED). Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Bupropion (an antidepressant which can improve sexual function) in treatment of Methadone induced sexual dysfunction. Method: Patients recruited from 3 Methadone clinic in Kermanshah underwent a structured clinical interview according to DSM-IV-TR. Erectile function was assessed using erectile dysfunction intensity scale. From the 72 subjects, 67 suffered from ED. The subjects were informed about the study and then, 67 patients voluntarily received 100mg of Bupropion for six weeks. 52 patients who completed the treatment course were assessed by ED questionnaire at the end of the study. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-16 software. Results: The prevalence of ED was 93.0% in our sample. The mean erectile dysfunction (ED) intensity scale was 12.79, and 15.94 before and after the treatment course respectively (P=0.03). ED severity had no significant relation with age and type of substance dependency (P=0.09); but it had a significant relation with duration and dosage of Methadone therapy (p<0.05). No major side effects were observed in our sample during treatment course. This trial is registered with the Iranian Clinical Trials Registry (IRCT138905124501N1; www.irct.ir). Conclusion: We find that Bupropion may be effective in the treatment of methadone induced ED. Further studies with control group and greater sample size are warranted to evaluate the efficacy of this medication in Methadone Induced Erectile Dysfunction.