Ellen L. Tuchman, PhD, Epidemiology and Population Health, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 111 E. 210th Street, Bronx, NY 10467, 718 920-5507, etuchman@montefiore.org

The menopausal transition that most women experience in their forties and early fifties can mark a time of relapse and increased HIV risk for those with histories of drug dependency. Many menopausal symptoms (hot and cold flashes, sweats, fatigue, loss of libido, menstrual irregularity and sleep disturbances) are similar to those associated with opiate withdrawal, methadone treatment and symptoms of HIV and HCV. Research indicates that substance use, medical comorbidities (i.e. HIV/AIDS; HCV), and psychological distress all increase the severity of menopausal symptoms. While these factors are more prevalent in this cohort of women, little is known about their menopausal experience, their understanding of menopause, or the intersection of menopause with the risks of relapse to drug use and associated HIV risks. The striking similarities of symptoms associated with both menopause and opiate withdrawal may mimic some of the effects of opiate withdrawal and may be easily confused (by patients and practitioners) with symptoms related to inadequate methadone dosing or other conditions and medications of greater familiarity. Opioid dependent women with increased levels of physical discomfort, insomnia, irritability, anxiety and depression, may be at higher risk for relapse to drug use and those no longer concerned with pregnancy prevention not continue barrier methods of contraception and face increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases. Survey research results will be presented from studies completed with midlife women (n=135) enrolled in methadone treatment, specifically: 1) the meaning of menopause, 2) symptom prevalence and attribution, and 3) factors associated with reported symptoms.

Learning Objectives: Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of the presentation, the participant will be able to
• Recognize the determinants of a complicated menopausal transition for opioid dependent women. 2)Understand the meaning of menopause for midlife women in methadone treatment,
• Describe the menopausal symptom experience and related factors for opioid dependent women, and
• Identify the implications of the menopause transition for opioid dependent women, and
• Discuss the need for better integration of research and treatment concerning midlife women in methadone treatment.

Keywords: Menopause, Drug Abuse Treatment

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Methadone and Injection Drug Use Poster Session

The 132nd Annual Meeting (November 6-10, 2004) of APHA