Sex differences among patients with opioid use disorder entering a comparative effectiveness medication trial.

This ancillary investigation of data from NIDA Clinical Trials Network protocol CTN-0051, a randomized, controlled trial comparing extended-release naltrexone to buprenorphine, examined baseline sex differences in men and women (N=570) with opioid use disorder (OUD) receiving inpatient services. Women were significantly younger; more likely to identify as bisexual, live with a sexual partner, and be financially dependent on someone else; and less likely to be employed. Women reported significantly greater psychiatric comorbidity and risk behaviors, and had shorter duration, but similar age of onset, of opioid use.

Conclusions: Findings underscore economic, psychiatric, and infection vulnerability among women with OUD, which may complicate treatment initiation, retention, and recovery. Interventions targeting these disparities should be explored.

Related protocols: CTN-0051