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Horm Metab Res 2010; 42(9): 621-626
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1254099
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© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Chronic Use of Opioids and the Endocrine System

Z. Merza1
  • 1Diabetes and Endocrinology Centre, Barnsley Foundation Hospital, Barnsley, UK
Further Information

Publication History

received 24.01.2010

accepted 21.04.2010

Publication Date:
19 May 2010 (online)

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Abstract

Opioids are widely used for the management of acute and chronic pain. They are also abused for recreational purposes. Long term use may lead to abnormalities in the endocrine system. The axis mainly affected is the gonadal axis leading to hypogonadism. However adrenal insufficiency and growth hormone deficiency can also occur with evidence that other hormones are affected to a lesser extent. No large randomised controlled trials have been performed; however, evidence from several small studies on heroin addicts and chronic pain patients support the above. Hence it is important to consider hormonal abnormalities in patients on long term opioids and if suspected appropriate assessment would be warranted.

Key words

opioids - chronic pain - hypogonadism

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Correspondence

Dr. Z. Merza

Diabetes and Endocrinology

Centre

Barnsley Foundation Hospital

Gawber Road

Barnsley S75 2EP

UK

Phone: +44/1226/435366

Fax: +44/1226/434406

Email: z.merza@nhs.net

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