Opioid-induced endocrinopathy.
Debilitating chronic nonmalignant pain is often managed using opioid medications. However, with increased use of this drug class comes concern about adverse effects on patients' endocrine function. In the present review, the authors discuss opioid-induced interference with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, effects on adrenal androgen production, and endocrine deficiency. In addition, the authors describe symptomology for opioid-induced endocrinopathy as well as diagnostic testing options. Treatment modalities for those afflicted with this condition are also described.
Colameco
Stephen
S
Department of Family Medicine at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Stratford, USA.
Coren
Joshua S
JS
D000311:Adrenal Glands / Q000187:drug effects / Q000503:physiopathology; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003687:Dehydroepiandrosterone / Q000378:metabolism / Q000494:pharmacology; D004700:Endocrine System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006801:Humans; D007006:Hypogonadism / Q000503:physiopathology; D007030:Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / Q000187:drug effects; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy; D013739:Testosterone / Q000008:administration & dosage
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid; D013739:Testosterone; D003687:Dehydroepiandrosterone