Effect of Mobile-based Combined Working Memory and Attention Control Training on Craving, Impulsivity, and Working Memory of Male Opioid Addicts Under Methadone Therapy: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

Objectives This study aims to investigate the effect of combined working memory training (WMT) and attention control training (ACT) on craving, impulsivity, and working memory of opioid addicts under methadone therapy. Methods This is a randomized controlled clinical trial. Participants were 50 male opioid addicts who were selected from addiction treatment clinics in Mashhad, Iran. After their random allocation to the intervention and control group, the intervention group received WMT+ACT for 4 weeks using a mobile application. Pre- and post-test assessments were conducted using a craving scale, Barratt impulsiveness scale, and Wechsler's digit span test. Descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis of covariance were employed for data analysis. Results The combined intervention significantly reduced craving and impulsivity in the intervention group compared to the control group, but it had no significant effect on working memory (P>0.05). Conclusion The mobile-based WMT+ACT intervention is a useful intervention for male opioid addicts under methadone therapy.