Buprenorphine-associated gastroparesis during in-patient heroin detoxification.
BACKGROUND
Buprenorphine is a partial mu receptor agonist used in opiate detoxification. It has been shown to cause delayed gastric emptying in healthy volunteers.


METHODS
We describe a case of clinically severe gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying due to impaired contraction of the stomach) whose onset coincided with the commencement of buprenorphine-assisted detoxification.


CONCLUSIONS
We review the literature on gastric effects of buprenorphine in healthy volunteers, providing proof of the concept that this was the most probable cause of this patient's gastroparesis.
Jakobovits
Simon L
SL
Department of Gastroenterology, Western Hospital Footscray, Gordon Street Footscray, 3011, Victoria, Australia. sjakobovits@hotmail.com
McDonough
Michael
M
Chen
Robert Y
RY
D000328:Adult; D002047:Buprenorphine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D018589:Gastroparesis / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006556:Heroin Dependence / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D009292:Narcotic Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D009292:Narcotic Antagonists; D002047:Buprenorphine