Abstract
IntroductionOpioid therapy for pain relief is associated with several adverse effects. Herein, we report the potential consequences of opioid use on the adrenal function. ObservationA 49-year-old woman with sickle cell anemia (Hemoglobin SS) was admitted for the treatment of a vaso-occlusive crisis. Morphine was used for pain management, provided by intravenous intermittent dosing (patient-controlled analgesia). She developed during the hospitalization low blood pressure, due to secondary adrenal insufficiency (cortisol 74 nmol/L; ACTH 2.9pmol/L). Pituitary gland was normal on brain magnetic resonance imaging and adrenal function recovered after morphine discontinuation. ConclusionOpioids suppress cortisol secretion, primarily mediated by direct negative effect on hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Further studies are needed to define the incidence and the clinical significance of opioid-induced adrenal insufficiency, as well as the need for hormone replacement.
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