Rapid cortical hemoglobin deoxygenation after heroin and methadone injection in humans: a preliminary report.

Stohler, R; Dürsteler, K M; Störmer, R; Seifritz, E; Hug, I; Sattler-Mayr, J; Muller-Spahn, F; Ladewig, D et al. · Drug Alcohol Depend · 1999

case_control · Level III

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Abstract

The short-term effects of intravenous opioids (heroin 20-300 mg, methadone 30-180 mg) on cortical hemoglobin oxygenation were examined by near infrared spectroscopy in ten opioid-dependent subjects and were compared with the effects of saline in ten age-matched normal controls. Heroin and methadone produced a rapid and dramatic decrease in cortical hemoglobin oxygenation. Saline had no effects. Opioid-induced acute deoxygenation of cortical hemoglobin is most likely associated with respiratory depression. Thorough medical monitoring is strongly recommended in intravenous opioid maintenance treatments.

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