Key points are not available for this paper at this time.
Background: Individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) hold varying perceptions of the three medications to treat OUD (MOUD). Data on these perceptions among those with criminal-legal involvement is limited. To optimize MOUD service delivery, especially in criminal-legal settings, it is essential to explore the preferences and attitudes of those with legal involvement. Methods: We conducted a scoping review of literature published via PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycInfo, and SocINDEX (January 1, 2014-September 17, 2024). Three-stage screening process was employed by two reviewers: title/abstract (n = 2085 articles), full-text (n = 88), and data extraction of 44 articles included in the final sample. Content analysis was used to understand preferences/attitudes toward MOUD and related influential factors. Results: Factors that influenced MOUD preferences/attitudes were clustered in positive (n = 39 articles; i.e., like), negative (n = 38; i.e., dislike), or mixed (n = 20; both positive and negative) valences. Methadone was the most referenced (n = 30), with more articles noting negative attitudes than positive. Fewer studies focused on oral buprenorphine (n = 18), with balanced positive and negative views. Seven articles on injectable MOUD highlighted mostly positive attitudes. Factors shaping preferences/attitudes spanned from individual to structural levels. Common factors associated with negative preferences included MOUD program rules, side or adverse effects, and drug-free ideology. Positive preferences were often engendered by flexible MOUD delivery and beliefs about MOUD. Influential factors differed by MOUD type. Conclusions: Preferences/attitudes toward MOUD among criminal-legal-involved populations are shaped by intersecting multilevel determinants and differ by MOUD type. Identified factors might serve as intervention targets to better meet individuals' needs.
Bailey et al. (Thu,) studied this question.