Abstract
AIM: This secondary analysis investigated whether completing Direct-Acting Antiviral (DAA) treatment affects neurocognitive outcomes in patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) undergoing opioid agonist maintenance treatment (OAMT). METHODS: Data from 45 participants (22 DAA treatment completers and 23 non-completers) were analyzed. Neurocognitive function was assessed at baseline and six months using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), Trail Making Tests (TMT A and B), Visual and Verbal N-Back tests, and Iowa Gambling Task (IGT). RESULTS: General Linear Model (GLM) analysis revealed significant improvements in cognitive function over time in both groups, with notable gains in WCST total correct responses (P < .001) and Visual Working Memory 2 Back hits and errors (P < .001). A significant Group × Time was found for TMT-B completion time, with non-completers showing greater improvement (P = .039). CONCLUSION: These findings highlight that even incomplete DAA treatment, alongside OAMT, yields significant cognitive benefits, underscoring the importance of integrated care.