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OPIOIDS 2006 <621>
Database Ovid MEDLINE(R) In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Ovid MEDLINE(R)
Unique Identifier 17184524
Status PubMed-not-MEDLINE
Authors Neasta J. Uttenweiler-Joseph S. Chaoui K. Monsarrat B. Meunier JC. Mouledous L.
Authors Full Name
Neasta, Jeremie. Uttenweiler-Joseph, Sandrine. Chaoui, Karima. Monsarrat, Bernard.
Meunier, Jean-Claude. Mouledous, Lionel.
Institution
Unite Mecanismes d'action des substances opioides, Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, Centre
National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 5089, 205 route de Narbonne, 31077 Toulouse cedex 04, France.
[email protected]
Title
Effect of long-term exposure of SH-SY5Y cells to morphine: a whole cell proteomic
analysis.
Source
Proteome Science. 4:23, 2006.
Journal Name
Proteome Science
Other ID
Source: NLM. PMC1766345
Country of Publication
England
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Opiate addiction reflects plastic changes that endurably alter synaptic
transmission within relevant neuronal circuits. The biochemical mechanisms of these
adaptations remain largely unknown and proteomics-based approaches could lead to a broad
characterization of the molecular events underlying adaptations to chronic drug exposure.
RESULTS: Thus, we have started proteomic analyses of the effects of chronic morphine
exposure in a recombinant human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y clone that stably overexpresses
the mu-opioid receptor. Cells were treated with morphine for 6, 24 and 72 hours, the proteins
were separated by 2-D gel electrophoresis and stained with Coomassie blue, and the protein
map was compared with that obtained from untreated cells. Spots showing a statistically
significant variation were selected for identification using mass spectrometric analyses.
CONCLUSION: A total of 45 proteins were identified, including proteins involved in cellular
metabolism, cytoskeleton organization, vesicular trafficking, transcriptional and translational
regulation, and cell signaling.
Publication Type Journal Article.
Date of Publication 2006
Year of Publication 2006
Volume 4
Page 23
OPIOIDS 2006 <629>
Database Ovid MEDLINE(R) In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Ovid MEDLINE(R)
Unique Identifier 16859549
Status PubMed-not-MEDLINE
Authors Newman RG.
Authors Full Name Newman, Robert G.
Institution
The Baron Edmond de Rothschild Chemical Dependency Institute of Beth Israel Medical Center, Albert Einstein
College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, 555 West 57th Street, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10019, USA.
[email protected]
Title
Expansion of opiate agonist treatment: an historical perspective.
Source
Harm Reduction Journal. 3:20, 2006.
Journal Name
Harm Reduction Journal
Other ID
Source: NLM. PMC1557846
Country of Publication
England
Abstract
Untreated opiate addiction remains a major health care crisis in New York and in most other
urban centers in America. Optimism for closing the gap between need and demand for
treatment and its availability has greeted the recent approval of a new opiate medication for
addiction, buprenorphine--which unlike methadone may be prescribed by independent, officebased practitioners. The likelihood of buprenorphine fulfilling its potential is assessed in the
light of the massive expansion of methadone treatment more than 30 years earlier. It is
concluded that the key, indispensable ingredient of success will be true commitment on the
part of Government to provide care to all those who need it.
Publication Type Editorial.
Date of Publication 2006
Year of Publication 2006
Volume 3
Page 20
OPIOIDS 2006 <631>
Database Ovid MEDLINE(R) In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Ovid MEDLINE(R)
Unique Identifier 16542427
Status PubMed-not-MEDLINE
Authors Wood E. Lim R. Kerr T.
Authors Full Name Wood, Evan. Lim, Ronald. Kerr, Thomas.
Institution
British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St, Paul's Hospital, 608 - 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC
V6Z 1Y6, Canada. [email protected]
Title
Initiation of opiate addiction in a Canadian prison: a case report.
Source
Harm Reduction Journal. 3:11, 2006.
Journal Name
Harm Reduction Journal
Other ID
Source: NLM. PMC1421396
Country of Publication
England
Abstract
BACKGROUND: In North America, the harms of illicit drug use have been responded to
primarily through law enforcement interventions. This strategy has resulted in record
populations of addicted individuals being incarcerated in both Canada and the United States.
The incarceration of non-violent drug offenders has become increasingly controversial as
studies demonstrate the harms, including elevated HIV risk behavior, of incarcerating injection
drug users. Other harms, such as the initiation of illicit drug use by prison inmates who
previously did not use drugs, have been less commonly described. CASE PRESENTATION:
We report on the case of an individual who initiated non-injection opiate use in a Canadian
prison and developed an addiction to the drug. Upon release into the community, the
individual continued using opiates and sought treatment at a clinic. The patient feared that he
might initiate injection use of opiates if his cravings could not be controlled. The patient was
placed on methadone maintenance therapy. CONCLUSION: While anecdotal reports indicate
that initiation in prison of the use of addictive illicit substances is frequent, documentation
through clinical experience is rare, and the public health implications of this behavior have not
been given sufficient attention in the literature. Strategies of incarcerating non-violent drug
offenders and attempting to keep illicit drugs out of prisons have not reduced the harms and
costs of illicit drug use. Effective, practical alternatives are urgently needed; expanded
community diversion programs for non-violent drug offenders deserve particular attention.
Publication Type Journal Article.
Date of Publication 2006
Year of Publication 2006
Volume 3
Page 11
OPIOIDS 2006 <877>
Database Ovid MEDLINE(R) In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Ovid MEDLINE(R)
Unique Identifier 17139840
Status MEDLINE
Authors McClung CA.
Authors Full Name McClung, Colleen A.
Institution
Department of Psychiatry and Center for Basic Neuroscience, University of Texas, Southwestern Medical Center,
Dallas, TX, USA. [email protected]
Title
The molecular mechanisms of morphine addiction. [Review] [85 refs]
Source
Reviews in the Neurosciences. 17(4):393-402, 2006.
Journal Name
Reviews in the Neurosciences
Country of Publication
England
Abstract
Addiction to opiates such as morphine is a major public health concern. A more thorough
understanding of the molecular mechanisms of opiate addiction can lead to better treatment
options in the future. Many of the changes in neuronal activity that occur upon morphine
exposure have been known for some time, but until recently, little was known about the
changes in gene expression that underlie these effects. Recent advances in molecular
biology such as microarray analysis and quantitative (real time) PCR have allowed us to
examine the gene expression changes that occur in response to morphine treatments and
during morphine withdrawal. This review summarizes many of the known molecular and
cellular actions of morphine, and some of the important gene expression changes that occur
in response to morphine treatment. Many of these gene expression changes underlie the
alterations in neuronal excitability, cell morphology and cell birth or death responsible for
producing morphine's rewarding effects, the development of dependence, and withdrawal
symptoms after treatment ends. [References: 85]
ISSN Print 0334-1763
Publication Type Journal Article. Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural. Review.
Date of Publication 2006
Year of Publication 2006
Issue/Part 4
Volume 17
Page 393-402
OPIOIDS 2006 <904>
Database Ovid MEDLINE(R) In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Ovid MEDLINE(R)
Unique Identifier 16856116
Status MEDLINE
Authors Eisenberg E. McNicol E. Carr DB.
Authors Full Name Eisenberg, E. McNicol, E. Carr, D B.
Institution
New England Medical Center, Pharmacy and Anesthesia, Box #420, 750 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111,
USA. [email protected]
Title
Opioids for neuropathic pain. [Review] [80 refs]
Source
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 3:CD006146, 2006.
Journal Name
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Country of Publication
England
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The use of opioids for neuropathic pain remains controversial. Studies
have been small, have yielded equivocal results, and have not established the long-term riskbenefit ratio of this treatment. OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy and safety of opioid
agonists for the treatment of neuropathic pain. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the
Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (2nd Quarter 2005), MEDLINE (1966 to June
2005), and EMBASE (1980 to 2005 Week 27) for articles in any language, and reference lists
of reviews and retrieved articles. SELECTION CRITERIA: Trials were included in which opioid
agonists were given to treat central or peripheral neuropathic pain of any etiology, pain was
assessed using validated instruments, and adverse events were reported. Studies in which
drugs other than opioid agonists were combined with opioids or opioids were administered
epidurally or intrathecally were excluded. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Data were
extracted by two independent investigators and included demographic variables, diagnoses,
interventions, efficacy, and adverse effects. MAIN RESULTS: Twenty-three trials met the
inclusion criteria and were classified as short-term (less than 24 hours; n = 14) or
intermediate-term (median = 28 days; range = eight to 70 days; n = 9). The short-term trials
had contradictory results. In contrast all nine intermediate-term trials demonstrated opioid
efficacy for spontaneous neuropathic pain. Meta-analysis of seven intermediate-term studies
showed mean post-treatment visual analog scale scores of pain intensity after opioids to be
13 points lower on a scale from zero to 100 than after placebo (95% confidence interval -16 to
-9; P < 0.00001). The most common adverse events were nausea (33% opioid versus 9%
control: number needed to treat to harm (NNH) 4.2) and constipation (33% opioid versus 10%
control: NNH 4.2), followed by drowsiness (29% opioid versus 12% control: NNH 6.2),
dizziness (21% opioid versus 6% control: NNH 7.1), and vomiting (15% opioid versus 3%
control: NNH 8.3). Where reported, 23 (11%) of 212 participants withdrew because of adverse
events during opioid therapy versus nine (4%) of 202 receiving placebo. AUTHORS'
CONCLUSIONS: Short-term studies provide only equivocal evidence regarding the efficacy of
opioids in reducing the intensity of neuropathic pain, whereas intermediate-term studies
demonstrate significant efficacy of opioids over placebo, which is likely to be clinically
important. Reported adverse events of opioids are common but not life threatening. Further
randomized controlled trials are needed to establish long-term efficacy, safety (including
addiction potential), and effects on quality of life. [References: 80]
Publication Type Journal Article. Meta-Analysis. Review.
Date of Publication 2006
Year of Publication 2006
Volume 3
Page CD006146
OPIOIDS (A) 2006 <911>
Database Ovid MEDLINE(R) In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Ovid MEDLINE(R)
Unique Identifier 16546223
Status MEDLINE
Authors Gray AC. Coupar IM. White PJ.
Authors Full Name Gray, Andrew C. Coupar, Ian M. White, Paul J.
Institution
Department of Pharmaceutical Biology and Pharmacology, Victorian College of Pharmacy, Monash University, 381
Royal Pde, Parkville, VIC 3052, Melbourne, Australia.
Title
Comparison of opioid receptor distributions in the rat central nervous system.
Source
Life Sciences. 79(7):674-85, 2006 Jul 10.
Journal Name
Life Sciences
Country of Publication
England
Abstract
The opioid receptors, mu, delta and kappa, conduct the major pharmacological effects of
opioid drugs, and exhibit intriguing functional relationships and interactions in the CNS.
Previously established hypotheses regarding the mechanisms underlying these phenomena
specify theoretical patterns of relative cellular localisation for the different receptor types. In
this study, we have used double-label immunohistochemistry to compare the cellular
distributions of delta and kappa receptors with those of mu receptors in the rat CNS. Regions
of established significance in opioid addiction were examined. Extensive mu/delta colocalisation was observed in neuron-like cells in several regions. mu and kappa receptors
were also often co-localised in neuron-like cell bodies in several regions. However, intense
kappa immunoreactivity (ir) also appeared in a separate, morphologically distinct population
of cells that did not express mu receptors. These small, ovoid cells were often closely
apposed against the larger, mu-ir cell bodies. Such cellular appositions were seen in several
regions, but were particularly common in the medial thalamus, the periaqueductal grey and
brainstem regions. These findings support proposals that functional similarities, synergy and
cooperativity between mu and delta receptors arise from widespread co-expression by cells
and intracellular molecular interactions. Although co-expression of mu and kappa receptors
was also detected, the appearance of a separate population of kappa-expressing cells
supports proposals that the contrasting and functionally antagonistic properties of mu and
kappa receptors are due to expression in physiologically distinct cell types. Greater
understanding of opioid receptor interaction mechanisms may provide possibilities for
therapeutic intervention in opioid addiction and other conditions.
ISSN Print 0024-3205
Publication Type Comparative Study. Journal Article. Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't.
Date of Publication 2006 Jul 10
Year of Publication 2006
Issue/Part 7
Volume 79
Page 674-85
OPIOIDS 2006 / COMORBIDITY 2006 <932>
Database Ovid MEDLINE(R) In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Ovid MEDLINE(R)
Unique Identifier 16309810
Status MEDLINE
Authors Gerra G. Leonardi C. D'Amore A. Strepparola G. Fagetti R. Assi C. Zaimovic A. Lucchini A.
Authors Full Name Gerra, Gilberto. Leonardi, Claudio. D'Amore, Antonio. Strepparola, Giovanni. Fagetti, Roberto.
Assi, Cinzia. Zaimovic, Amir. Lucchini, Alfio.
Institution
Addiction Treatment Centre, AUSL Parma, Italy. [email protected]
Title
Buprenorphine treatment outcome in dually diagnosed heroin dependent patients: A
retrospective study.
Source
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry. 30(2):265-72, 2006 Mar.
Journal Name
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry
Country of Publication
England
Abstract
The present study compared retrospectively in a clinical non-experimental setting the
efficacy of buprenorphine (BUP) in different subgroups of dually diagnosed and non-dually
diagnosed opioid-dependent patients: all the subjects included in the study showed severe
long-lasting heroin addiction and 68.4% were affected by psychiatric comorbidity. Participants
(206) (mean age 32.2+/-8.9, 177 males-29 females) were applicants to a long-term
buprenorphine treatment program (mean doses 7.9+/-0.42 mg). Aim of the study was to
evaluate dual diagnosis variables possibly influencing retention rate and abstinence from illicit
drugs. The patients were divided into 5 subgroups on the basis of dual diagnosis: group 1:
major depression (MD) 29.61%; group 2: generalized anxiety (GAD) (11.2%); group 3:
personality disorders (PD), antisocial-borderline (21.84%); group 4: schizophrenia
(SC)(6.3%); group 5: substance use disorder without overt psychiatric comorbidity (SUD)
(31.1%). Group 1 patients affected by MD showed the highest retention rate at 12 months
(72.1%) in comparison with the other groups of patients: group 2 GAD (39.1%), group 3 PD
(17.8%), group 4 SC (7.7%) and group 5 SUD, without comorbidity (45.3%) (p=0.006,
p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.002). Similarly, at 12 months, the patients affected by MD showed
less risk of illicit opioid use (16.4%) than those affected by GAD (34.8%), PD (42.2%), SC
(53.8%) and SUD without comorbidity (34.4%) (p=0.06, p=0.003, p=0.008, p=0.017). When
evaluated on the whole sample, retention rate was not influenced by dose. In contrast, the
higher BUP doses were associated with less risk of illicit opioid use, than lower doses
(p<0.001). Multivariate analysis and factor analysis showed a greater association of outcome
measures (retention rate and negative urines rate) with comorbid diagnosis (depression)
(respectively 0.64) than with buprenorphine doses (respectively 0.54). Our data need to be
interpreted with caution because of the retrospective methodology applied to a clinical nonexperimental setting. BUP seems to be more effective in opioid-dependent patients affected
by depression, probably due to the kappa opioid-receptors antagonist action, counteracting
dysphoria, negativism and anxiety. High doses of BUP appear to predict a better outcome, in
terms of negative urines, but not in terms of retention.
ISSN Print 0278-5846
Publication Type Clinical Trial. Comparative Study. Journal Article. Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't.
Date of Publication 2006 Mar
Year of Publication 2006
Issue/Part 2
Volume 30
Page 265-72
OPIOIDS 2006 <373>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2007004567
Authors Mohan D. Dhawan A. Chopra A. Sethi H.
Institution
(Mohan, Dhawan, Chopra, Sethi) National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre, All India Institute of Medical
Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
A 24-week outcome following buprenorphine maintenance among opiate users in
India.
Source
Journal of Substance Use. 11(6)(pp 409-415), 2006. Date of Publication: Dec 2006.
Abstract
Aims: To evaluate the outcome at 24 weeks following a community-based treatment
programme using buprenorphine maintenance among male opiate users in Dimapur,
Nagaland (India). Design: Quasi-experimental prospective follow-up study. Participants: Fiftyfour male current opiate users were recruited following fulfilment of inclusion criteria from a
community. All users seeking treatment met the DSM III-R criteria for opioid dependence.
Methods: All subjects received buprenorphine (1.2-1.8 mg sublingually per day) from a
community clinic and attended psychosocial sessions. Measurements included an
assessment of demographic and clinical variables, Addiction Severity Index (ASI), retention in
treatment, drug use at baseline and follow-up at 24 weeks. Findings: The mean age of
sample was 26.3+/-4.1 years, with a mean duration of opioid use of 4.0+/-3.8 years. The
retention rate was 81.5% at 24 weeks. Scores on the Addiction Severity Index decreased and
injecting use reduced. No adverse events were reported. Conclusion: Buprenorphine was
found to be effective with greater retention rates and less opioid use. Results support the
theory that community-based setting to provide maintenance treatment with very low staff
investment from a community clinic can be initiated and replicated safely and effectively in
India. However, future work on evaluation of higher doses is recommended.
ISSN 1465-9891
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Journal of Substance Use
Volume 11
Issue Part 6
Page 409-415
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Dec 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <378>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2006597109
Authors Kristensen O. Lolandsmo T. Isaksen A. Vederhus J.-K. Clausen T.
Institution
(Kristensen, Lolandsmo, Isaksen, Vederhus) Addiction Unit, Sorlandet Hospital, Kristiansand, Norway.
(Clausen) Unit for Addiction Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Treatment of polydrug-using opiate dependents during withdrawal: Towards a
standardisation of treatment.
Source
BMC Psychiatry. 6, 2006. Article Number: 54. Date of Publication: 15 Nov 2006.
Abstract
Background: The growing tendency among opioid addicts to misuse multiple other drugs
should lead clinicians and researchers to search for new pharmacological strategies in order
to prevent life-threatening complications and minimize withdrawal symptoms during polydrug
detoxification. Methods: A non-randomised, open-label in-patient detoxification study was
used to compare the short-time efficacy of a standardised regimen comprising 6 days
Buprenorphine and 10 days Valproate (BPN/VPA) (n = 12) to a control group (n = 50) who
took a 10-day traditional Clonidine/ Carbamazepine (CLN/CBZ) regimen. Sixty-two dependent
subjects admitted to a detoxification unit were included, all dependent on at least opioids and
benzodiazepines. Other dependencies were not excluded. Results: In the BPN/VPA group, 8
out of 12 patients (67%) completed treatment compared with 25 of 50 patients (50%) in the
CLN/CBZ group; this difference between the groups was non-significant (p = 0.15).
Withdrawal symptoms were reduced in both groups, but only the BPN/VPA group achieved a
reduction in withdrawal symptoms from day one. The difference between the two groups was
significantly in favour of the BPN/ VPA group for days 2 (p < 0.001), 3 (p < 0.05), 4 (p <
0.001), 5 (p < 0.01), 7 (p < 0.01) and 8 (p < 0.05). The BPN/VPA combination did not affect
blood pressure, pulse or liver function, and the total burden of side-effects was experienced
as modest. There appeared to be no pharmacological interactions of clinical concern, based
on measurement of Buprenorphine and Valproate serum levels. Both the patients and the
staff were satisfied with the standardised treatment combination. Conclusion: Overall, the
combination of Buprenorphine and Valproate seems to be a safe and promising method for
treating multiple drug withdrawal symptoms. The results of this study suggest that the
BPN/VPA combination is potentially a better detoxification treatment for polydrug withdrawal
than the traditional treatment with Clonidine and Carbamazepine. However, a randomised,
double-blind study with a larger sample size to confirm our results is recommended. copyright
2006 Kristensen et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
ISSN 1471-244X
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name BMC Psychiatry
Volume 6
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication 15 Nov 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <380>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2006521273
Authors Gerra G. Fantoma A. Zaimovic A.
Institution
(Gerra, Fantoma) National Department on Drug Policy, Rome, Italy.
(Zaimovic) Addiction Research Centre, Ser.T., AUSL, Parma, Italy.
(Gerra) National Department on Drug Policy, Via Quintino Sella, 69, 00187 Roma, Italy.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Naltrexone and buprenorphine combination in the treatment of opioid dependence.
Source
Journal of Psychopharmacology. 20(6)(pp 806-814), 2006. Date of Publication: Nov 2006.
Abstract
Naltrexone treatment has demonstrated some advantages for special populations of heroin
addicted individuals, but patients' compliance seems to be very poor, with a low adherence
and low retention rate. Kappa-opioid system overdrive seems to contribute to opioid
protracted abstinence syndrome, with dysphoria and psychosomatic symptoms during
naltrexone treatment. The objective of this observational study was to determine the
effectiveness of a functional k antagonist in improving naltrexone treatment outcome. A partial
mu agonist/kappa antagonist (buprenorphine) and a mu antagonist (naltrexone) were
combined during a 12 weeks protocol, theoretically leaving k antagonism as the major
medication effect. Sixty patients were submitted to outpatient rapid detoxification utilizing
buprenorphine and opioid antagonists. Starting on the fifth day, 30 patients (group A) received
naltrexone alone. Alternatively, 30 patients (group B) received naltrexone (50 mg oral dose)
plus buprenorphine (4 mg sublingual) for the 12 weeks of the observational study. The
endpoints of the study were: retention in treatment, negative urinalyses, changes in
psychological symptoms (Symptom Checklist-90 Revised: SCL-90) and craving scores (visual
analysis scale (VAS)). Thirty-four subjects (56.67%) completed the 12 weeks study. Twentyone patients (35.0%) had all urine samples negative for opiates and cocaine, nine subjects
(15.0%) had urine samples negative for cocaine and opiates for the last 4 weeks of the study,
five subjects (8.3%) continued to use cocaine during the 12 weeks of the study. No significant
change in pupillary diameter after buprenorphine administration was evidenced during clinical
observations from baseline across the weekly measurements. Retention rates in group A
(naltrexone) and group B (naltrexone + buprenorphine) at week 12 were respectively 40% (12
patients) and 73.33% (22 patients), with a significant difference in favour of group B (p =
0.018). Patients treated with naltrexone in combination with buprenorphine (B patients)
showed a significantly lower rate of positive urines for morphine (4.45%) and cocaine
metabolites (9.09%) than those treated with naltrexone alone (A) (25%, morphine; 33.33%
cocaine) (p < 0.05; p < 0.05). Irritability, depression, tiredness, psychosomatic symptoms and
craving scores decreased significantly less in Group A patients than in group B patients. The
dysfunction of opioid system with kappa receptors hyper-activation provoked by heroin
exposure, probably underlying dysphoric and psychosomatic symptoms during naltrexone
treatment, seems to be counteracted, at least in part, by buprenorphine. The combination of
buprenorphine and naltrexone may significantly improve the outcome of opioid antagonists
treatment in terms of retention, negative urinalyses, and reduced dysphoria, mood symptoms
and craving. copyright 2006 British Association for Psychopharmacology.
ISSN 0269-8811
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Journal of Psychopharmacology
Volume 20
Issue Part 6
Page 806-814
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Nov 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <387>
Database
EMBASE
Accession Number
2007066093
Authors
Neasta J. Uttenweiler-Joseph S. Chaoui K. Monsarrat B. Meunier J.-C. Mouledous L.
Institution
(Neasta, Chaoui, Meunier, Mouledous) Unite Mecanismes d'Action des Substances Opioides, Institut
Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 5089, 205 route
Narbonne, 31077 Toulouse cedex 04, France.
(Uttenweiler-Joseph, Monsarrat) Unite Spectrometrie de Masse et Structure des Biomolecules, Institut
Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 5089, 205 route
Narbonne, 31077 Toulouse cedex 04, France.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
de
de
de
de
Title
Effect of long-term exposure of SH-SY5Y cells to morphine: A whole cell proteomic
analysis.
Source
Proteome Science. 4, 2006. Article Number: 23. Date of Publication: 2006.
Abstract
Background: Opiate addiction reflects plastic changes that endurably alter synaptic
transmission within relevant neuronal circuits. The biochemical mechanisms of these
adaptations remain largely unknown and proteomics-based approaches could lead to a broad
characterization of the molecular events underlying adaptations to chronic drug exposure.
Results: Thus, we have started proteomic analyses of the effects of chronic morphine
exposure in a recombinant human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y clone that stably overexpresses
the mu-opioid receptor. Cells were treated with morphine for 6, 24 and 72 hours, the proteins
were separated by 2-D gel electrophoresis and stained with Coomassie blue, and the protein
map was compared with that obtained from untreated cells. Spots showing a statistically
significant variation were selected for identification using mass spectrometric analyses.
Conclusion: A total of 45 proteins were identified, including proteins involved in cellular
metabolism, cytoskeleton organization, vesicular trafficking, transcriptional and translational
regulation, and cell signaling. copyright 2006 Neasta et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Proteome Science
Volume 4
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <388>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2007062050
Authors Morgan O. Griffiths C. Hickman M.
Institution
(Morgan) Department of Primary Care and Social Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
(Morgan, Griffiths) Health and Care Division, Office for National Statistics, 1 Drummond Gate, London SW1V 2QQ,
United Kingdom.
(Hickman) Department of Social Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Association between availability of heroin and methadone and fatal poisoning in
England and Wales 1993-2004.
Source
International Journal of Epidemiology. 35(6)(pp 1579-1585), 2006. Date of Publication: Dec
2006.
Abstract
Background: The UK heroin market is the biggest in Europe and [similar to]70% of heroin
deaths are due to fatal poisoning. Methadone treatment for heroin addiction in the UK, the
'British system', is unique as it is largely provided by General Practitioners. Methods: The
Office for National Statistics provided data on deaths, the Home Office provided law
enforcement data on drug seizures and the Department of Health data on prescriptions. For
methadone treatment we calculated the death rate per 1000 patient years. We used
Spearman's rank correlation to assess the association between illicit drug seizures for heroin
and methadone and deaths. Results: Between 1993 and 2004 there were 7072 deaths
involving heroin/ morphine (86% males) and 3298 deaths involving methadone (83% male).
From 1993-1997, directly age-standardized mortality rates for males were similar for both
drugs, increasing from [similar to]5 to 15 per million. Mortality rates for heroin continued to
increase until 2000, subsequently decreasing from 30 to 20 per million by 2003, and rising
again to 24 per million in 2004. In contrast, mortality rates for methadone decreased between
1997 and 2004 to just above 1993 levels. Among females the mortality rate for both drugs
was lower than for males throughout the study period, remaining relatively stable. Methadone
deaths per 1000 patient years remained similar between 1993 and 1997, after which they fell
by three quarters. For both heroin/morphine and methadone, deaths were strongly associated
with seizures (Spearmans' coefficient for males: heroin, P = 0.95, P < 0.001 and methadone,
P = 0.83, P = 0.0013). Conclusions: Our study suggests the 'British System' can deliver
substantial expansion of treatment without increased mortality risk. The fall in
heroin/morphine deaths since 2000 may also be an indication of success of increasing
methadone treatment. Data on mortality risk is needed to determine whether increased
methadone treatment has reduced drug-related deaths. copyright 2006 Oxford University
Press.
ISSN 0300-5771
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name International Journal of Epidemiology
Volume 35
Issue Part 6
Page 1579-1585
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Dec 2006
OPIOIDS (A) 2006 <398>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2007221740
Authors Sharifzadeh M. Hadjiakhoondi A. Khanavi M. Susanabadi M.
Institution
(Sharifzadeh) Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical
Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Islamic Republic of.
(Sharifzadeh, Hadjiakhoondi, Khanavi, Susanabadi) Medicinal Plants Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy,
Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Islamic Republic of.
(Sharifzadeh) Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical
Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Islamic Republic of.
(Hadjiakhoondi, Khanavi, Susanabadi) Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of
Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Islamic Republic of.
(Sharifzadeh) Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Islamic Republic of.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Effects of aqueous, methanolic and chloroform extracts of rhizome and aerial parts of
Valeriana officinalis L. on naloxone-induced jumping in morphine-dependent mice.
Source
Addiction Biology. 11(2)(pp 145-151), 2006. Date of Publication: Jun 2006.
Abstract
In the present study, the effects of rhizomes and aerial parts extracts of Valeriana officinalis
L. on morphine dependence in mice have been investigated. Animals were treated
subcutaneously with morphine (50, 50 and 75 mg/kg) three times daily (10 am, 1 pm and 4
pm) for 3 days, and a last dose of morphine (50 mg/kg) was administered on the fourth day.
Withdrawal syndrome (jumping) was precipitated by naloxone (5 mg/kg) which was
administered intraperitoneally 2 hours after the last dose of morphine. To study the effects of
the aqueous, methanolic and chloroform extracts of both aerial parts and rhizome of the V.
officinalis L. on naloxone-induced jumping in morphine-dependent animals, 10 injections of
morphine (three administrations each day) for dependence and a dose of 5 mg/kg of
naloxone for withdrawal induction were employed. Intraperitoneal injection of different doses
(1, 5, 25 and 50 mg/kg) of aqueous, methanolic and chloroform extracts of the rhizome of V.
officinalis L. 60 minutes before naloxone injection decreased the jumping response dosedependently. Pre-treatment of animals with different doses (1, 5, 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) of
aqueous and methanolic extracts of aerial parts of V. officinalis L. 60 minutes before naloxone
injection caused a significant decrease on naloxone-induced jumping. The chloroform extract
of the aerial parts of V. officinalis L. did not show any significant changes on jumping
response in morphine-dependent animals. It is concluded that the extracts of V. officinalis L.
could affect morphine withdrawal syndrome via possible interactions with inhibitory
neurotransmitters in nervous system. copyright 2006 The Authors.
ISSN 1355-6215
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Addiction Biology
Volume 11
Issue Part 2
Page 145-151
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Jun 2006
COCAINE / OPIOIDS 2006 <401>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2007221706
Authors Aouizerate B. Ho A. Schluger J.H. Perret G. Borg L. Le Moal M. Piazza P.V. Kreek M.J.
Institution
(Aouizerate, Le Moal, Piazza) Laboratory of Pathophysiology of Behavior, Victor Segalen's University (Bordeaux 2),
France.
(Ho, Schluger, Perret, Borg, Kreek) Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, Rockefeller University, United
States.
(Kreek) Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY
10021, United States.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Glucocorticoid negative feedback in methadone-maintained former heroin addicts
with ongoing cocaine dependence: Dose-response to dexamethasone suppression.
Source
Addiction Biology. 11(1)(pp 84-96), 2006. Date of Publication: Mar 2006.
Abstract
Combined cocaine and illicit opiate use is common. This study aimed to test the hypothesis
that cocaine dependence in former heroin-addicted patients maintained on methadone
treatment is associated with enhanced glucocorticoid negative feedback. Multiple dose
dexamethasone suppression tests, using a conventional 2.0 mg dose, and two lower doses,
0.5 mg and 0.125 mg, were performed in 10 methadone-maintained former heroin addicts
with ongoing cocaine dependence (C-MM), 10 stabilized methadone-maintained former
heroin addicts with no ongoing drug or alcohol use (MM), and 22 normal volunteers (NV). At 9
hours, there was no difference in plasma adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) and/or cortisol
levels among groups on the baseline day, as well as after the two lower doses of
dexamethasone. At 17 hours, C-MM and MM had significantly lower plasma ACTH and/or
cortisol levels than NV. However, C-MM did not significantly differ from MM in their hormonal
levels. When the hormonal responses to dexamethasone are expressed as magnitude of
lowering from baseline, there was no significant difference at any dose among groups.
Therefore, C-MM exhibited a normal glucocorticoid negative feedback in the morning. Using
the standard interpretation of dexamethasone suppression testing based on the examination
of the actual hormonal levels rather than the difference from baseline condition, C-MM appear
to have glucocorticoid effects similar to MM, yet were both greater than NV in the late
afternoon. Thus, further studies are needed to know whether altered glucocorticoid negative
feedback is related to chronic cocaine exposure, or is the result of former heroin addiction
and/or its long-term treatment with methadone. copyright 2006 The Authors.
ISSN 1355-6215
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Addiction Biology
Volume 11
Issue Part 1
Page 84-96
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Mar 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <404>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2007009696
Authors Cameron I.M. Matheson C.I. Bond C.M. McNamee P. Lawrie T. Robinson A. Robertson G. Eagles L.E.
Institution
(Cameron) Department of Mental Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom.
(Matheson, Bond, Lawrie) Department of General Practice and Primary Care, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen,
United Kingdom.
(McNamee) Health Economics Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom.
(Robinson, Robertson) Substance Misuse Service, Royal Cornhill Hospital, Aberdeen, United Kingdom.
(Eagles) NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, United Kingdom.
(Matheson) Department of General Practice and Primary Care, University of Aberdeen, Westburn Health Centre,
Westburn Road, Aberdeen AB25 2AY, United Kingdom.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Pilot randomised controlled trial of community pharmacy administration of
buprenorphine versus methadone.
Source
International Journal of Pharmacy Practice. 14(4)(pp 243-248), 2006. Date of Publication:
Dec 2006.
Abstract
Objectives: The established regime for opiate substitute prescribing for drug misusers is
daily methadone administered under supervision in community pharmacies. Buprenorphine
has recently been introduced as an alternative. However there is a lack of evidence of the
effectiveness of buprenorphine maintenance therapy (BMT) in the UK treatment setting. This
study aimed to assess methods for a randomised controlled trial (RCT) and the feasibility of
pharmacy-based supervised self-administration (SSA) of buprenorphine compared to
methadone. Setting: Specialist substance misuse service, general practices and community
pharmacies in Aberdeen, Scotland. Method: The design was a pilot RCT. Opiate-dependent
drug misusers, newly referred for maintenance treatment were randomised to receive BMT or
methadone maintenance therapy (MMT). Clients and pharmacists were interviewed at
baseline and at the end of a 12-week intervention period. Clients completed the quality of life
measure EQ-5D. Pharmacy activities were timed. Key findings: Twenty-one opiate-dependent
clients were recruited (BMT = 11, MMT = 10). Recruitment levels improved as the trial
progressed. Clients' treatment preferences were evident. Withdrawals occurred early with
BMT. Clients found SSA of buprenorphine acceptable, but found daily administration more
manageable than three times weekly. Pharmacists found the dispensing of buprenorphine to
be an acceptable role, but felt less certain of ensuring against diversion with buprenorphine
than they were with methadone. Pharmacy activities associated with buprenorphine took
longer than those associated with methadone (mean = 7 min 25s versus mean = 3 min 27s,
respectively). Conclusion: Recruitment to a trial comparing MMT to BMT for opiate-dependent
clients within a UK treatment setting is feasible. Clients and pharmacists found buprenorphine
acceptable. copyright 2006 The Authors.
ISSN 0961-7671
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name International Journal of Pharmacy Practice
Volume 14
Issue Part 4
Page 243-248
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Dec 2006
COMORBIDITY 2006 / OPIOIDS 2006 <426>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2007003794
Authors Shiri R. Hassani K.F. Ansari M.
Institution
(Shiri, Hassani) Tampere School of Public Health, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.
(Ansari) Department of Internal Medicine, Ekbatan Hospital, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan,
Iran, Islamic Republic of.
(Shiri) Klaneettitie 1 D 105, FIN-00420 Helsinki, Finland.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Association between opium abuse and comorbidity in diabetic men.
Source
American Journal on Addictions. 15(6)(pp 468-472), 2006. Date of Publication: Nov 2006.
Abstract
The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of opium abuse in diabetic men and
to investigate its association with comorbidity. The study population was comprised of 312
consecutive diabetic men aged 20 years or older residing in the study area in 2005. The
prevalence of self-reported opium abuse was 11.2%. Opium use was associated with low
socioeconomic status, smoking, tea consumption, and a higher prevalence of erectile
dysfunction (ED) and severe depression. The prevalence of severe depression was 22.8%
among 35 men who used opium and 13.4% among 277 who did not use it. The prevalence of
moderate or severe ED was 85.7% among opium users and 66.1% among non-users. The
risk of ED was two times (95% CI 1.0-7.4) higher in opium users compared with nonusers.
Copyright copyright American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry.
ISSN 1055-0496
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name American Journal on Addictions
Volume 15
Issue Part 6
Page 468-472
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Nov 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <441>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2006615085
Authors Crettol S. Deglon J.-J. Besson J. Croquette-Krokar M. Hammig R. Gothuey I. Monnat M. Eap C.B.
Institution
(Crettol, Deglon, Besson, Croquette-Krokar, Hammig, Gothuey, Monnat, Eap) Unite de Biochimie et
Psychopharmacologie Clinique, Centre de Neurosciences Psychiatriques, Departement de Psychiatrie, PrillyLausanne, Switzerland.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
ABCB1 and cytochrome P450 genotypes and phenotypes: Influence on methadone
plasma levels and response to treatment.
Source
Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 80(6)(pp 668-681), 2006. Date of Publication: Dec
2006.
Abstract
Background and Objective: The in vivo implication of various cytochrome P450 (CYP)
isoforms and of P-glycoprotein on methadone kinetics is unclear. We aimed to thoroughly
examine the genetic factors influencing methadone kinetics and response to treatment.
Methods: Genotyping for CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP3A4,
CYP3A5, ABCB1, and UGT2B7 polymorphisms was performed in 245 patients undergoing
methadone maintenance treatment. To assess CYP3A activity, the patients were phenotyped
with midazolam. Results: The patients with lower CYP3A activity presented higher steadystate trough (R,S)-methadone plasma levels (4.3, 3.0, and 2.3 ng/mL . mg for low, medium,
and high activity, respectively; P = .0002). As previously reported, CYP2B6*6/*6 carriers had
significantly higher trough (S)-methadone plasma levels (P = .0001) and a trend toward
higher (R)-methadone plasma levels (P = .07). CYP2D6 ultrarapid metabolizers presented
lower trough (R,S)-methadone plasma levels compared with the extensive or intermediate
metabolizers (2.4 and 3.3 ng/mL . mg, respectively; P = .04), whereas CYP2D6 poor
metabolizer status showed no influence. ABCB1 3435TT carriers presented lower trough
(R,S)-methadone plasma levels (2.7 and 3.4 ng/mL . mg for 3435TT and 3435CC carriers,
respectively; P = .01). The CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP3A5, and UGT2B7 genotypes
did not influence methadone plasma levels. Only CYP2B6 displayed a stereoselectivity in its
activity. Conclusion: In vivo, CYP3A4 and CYP2B6 are the major CYP isoforms involved in
methadone metabolism, with CYP2D6 contributing to a minor extent. ABCB1 genetic
polymorphisms also contribute slightly to the interindividual variability of methadone kinetics.
The genetic polymorphisms of these 4 proteins had no influence on the response to treatment
and only a small influence on the dose requirement of methadone. copyright 2006 American
Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics.
ISSN 0009-9236
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Volume 80
Issue Part 6
Page 668-681
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Dec 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <442>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2006615084
Authors Coller J.K. Barratt D.T. Dahlen K. Loennechen M.H. Somogyi A.A.
Institution
(Coller, Barratt, Dahlen, Loennechen, Somogyi) Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, The
University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
ABCB1 genetic variability and methadone dosage requirements in opioid-dependent
individuals.
Source
Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 80(6)(pp 682-690), 2006. Date of Publication: Dec
2006.
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The most common treatment for opioid dependence is
substitution therapy with another opioid such as methadone. The methadone dosage is
individualized but highly variable, and program retention rates are low due in part to
nonoptimal dosing resulting in withdrawal symptoms and further heroin craving and use.
Methadone is a substrate for the P-glycoprotein transporter, encoded by the ABCB1 gene,
which regulates central nervous system exposure. This retrospective study aimed to
investigate the influence of ABCB1 genetic variability on methadone dose requirements.
Methods: Genomic deoxyribonucleic acid was isolated from opioid-dependent subjects (n =
60) and non-opioid-dependent control subjects (n = 60), and polymerase chain reactionrestriction fragment length polymorphism and allele-specific polymerase chain reaction were
used to determine the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms at positions 61, 1199,
1236, 2677, and 3435. ABCB1 haplotypes were inferred with PHASE software (version 2.1).
Results: There were no significant differences in the allele or genotype frequencies of the
individual single nucleotide polymorphisms or haplotypes between the 2 populations. ABCB1
genetic variability influenced daily methadone dose requirements, such that subjects carrying
2 copies of the wild-type haplotype required higher doses compared with those with 1 copy
and those with no copies (98.3 +/- 10.4, 58.6 +/- 20.9, and 55.4 +/- 26.1 mg/d, respectively; P
= .029). In addition, carriers of the AGCTT haplotype required significantly lower doses than
noncarriers (38.0 +/- 16.8 and 61.3 +/- 24.6 mg/d, respectively; P = .04). Conclusion:
Although ABCB1 genetic variability is not related to the development of opioid dependence,
identification of variant haplotypes may, after larger prospective studies have been performed,
provide clinicians with a tool for methadone dosage individualization. copyright 2006
American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics.
ISSN 0009-9236
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Volume 80
Issue Part 6
Page 682-690
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Dec 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <467>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2006565552
Authors Chen S.A. O'Dell L.E. Hoefer M.E. Greenwell T.N. Zorrilla E.P. Koob G.F.
Institution
(Chen, O'Dell, Hoefer, Greenwell, Zorrilla, Koob) Molecular and Integrative Neurosciences Department, Scripps
Research Institute, San Diego, CA, United States.
(Chen) Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Studies, NIH/NIAAA, NIH Animal Center, PO Box 529, Poolesville,
MD 20837, United States.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Unlimited access to heroin self-administration: Independent motivational markers of
opiate dependence.
Source
Neuropsychopharmacology. 31(12)(pp 2692-2707), 2006. Date of Publication: 04 Dec 2006.
Abstract
The goal of the present study was to develop and validate an animal model of unlimited
access to intravenous heroin self-administration combined with responding for food and water
to characterize the transition to drug dependence. Male Wistar rats were allowed to lever
press for heroin (60 mug/kg/0.1 ml infusion/s; fixed ratio 1; 20-s time out) and nosepoke for
food and water in consecutive, daily 23-h sessions. Daily heroin intake increased over days,
reaching significance by Day 14. Drug-taking increased across the circadian cycle, reflected
as increases in both the nocturnal peak and diurnal nadir of heroin intake. Changes in the
circadian pattern of food intake and meal patterning preceded and paralleled the changes in
heroin intake. By Day 7, the circadian amplitude of feeding was blunted. Nocturnal intake
decreased because rats consumed smaller and briefer meals. Diurnal intake increased due to
increased meal frequency, whereas total daily food intake decreased. To control for time or
experience in the self-administration boxes as a possible confound, rats with saline (no drug)
tethers were tested and did not display significant changes in food intake pattern. Body weight
gain slowed slightly in heroin rats relative to saline controls. Separate groups of rats revealed
that significant physical dependence as measured by physical signs of opiate withdrawal
following a naloxone injection (1.0 mg/kg, subcutaneous (s.c.)) was reached by Day 14.
Significant increases in heroin intake could be produced using low doses of naloxone (0.0030.03 mg/kg, s.c.) on days 28-31 of heroin access. After 6 weeks of heroin self-administration,
rats injected with buprenorphine (0, 0.01, 0.04, and 0.2 mg/kg, s.c.) showed a dosedependent reduction in heroin intake. Changes in the pattern of drug and food intake in the
present unlimited heroin access model may serve as independent motivational markers for
the transition to a drug-dependent state. copyright 2006 Nature Publishing Group All rights
reserved.
ISSN 0893-133X
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Neuropsychopharmacology
Volume 31
Issue Part 12
Page 2692-2707
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication 04 Dec 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <482>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2006533616
Authors Bohn L.M. Raehal K.M.
Institution
(Bohn, Raehal) Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 333
W 10th Ave, 5184A Graves Hall, Columbus, OH 43210, United States.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Opioid receptor signaling: relevance for gastrointestinal therapy.
Source
Current Opinion in Pharmacology. 6(6)(pp 559-563), 2006. Date of Publication: Dec 2006.
Abstract
Opiate drugs, such as morphine, are renowned for their analgesic properties. To date, opioid
narcotics represent the largest and most potent class of pain relievers available to treat both
acute and chronic pain conditions. The use of opiates, however, is severely limited by several
adverse side effects. Upon chronic use, opiates can produce tolerance, physical dependence
and addiction. Although these conditions warrant consideration, there are acute effects that
present more immediate concerns when choosing opiate narcotics for pain therapy. One of
the most prevalent side effects, which continues for as long as the opiate is used for pain
control, is constipation. This can impact patient compliance, as it is often one of the top
reasons why patients discontinue opiate treatment. The challenge, therefore, is to develop
pain therapies that preserve potent analgesia while preventing constipation. copyright 2006
Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
ISSN 1471-4892
Publication Type Journal: Review
Journal Name Current Opinion in Pharmacology
Volume 6
Issue Part 6
Page 559-563
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Dec 2006
OPIOIDS (A) 2008 <489>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2006526603
Authors Yoo J.-H. Yang E.-M. Cho J.-H. Lee J.-H. Jeong S.M. Nah S.-Y. Kim H.-C. Kim K.-W. Kim S.-H. Lee S.-Y.
Jang C.-G.
Institution
(Yoo, Yang, Cho, Lee, Jang) Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University,
Suwon, 440-746, Korea, Republic of.
(Lee, Jeong, Nah) Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701,
Korea, Republic of.
(Kim) Neurotoxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Korea Institute of Drug Abuse, Chunchon, 200-701, Korea,
Republic of.
(Kim) Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chonbuk National University, Chonju, Korea, Republic of.
(Kim) College of Physical Education, Kyunghee University, Youngin, 449-701, Korea, Republic of.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Inhibitory effects of berberine against morphine-induced locomotor sensitization and
analgesic tolerance in mice.
Source
Neuroscience. 142(4)(pp 953-961), 2006. Date of Publication: 03 Nov 2006.
Abstract
We previously reported that a methanolic extract of Coptis japonica, which is a well-known
traditional oriental medicine, inhibits morphine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) in
mice. Berberine is a major component of Coptis japonica extract, and it has been established
that the adverse effects of morphine on the brain involve dopamine (DA) receptors. However,
to our knowledge, no study has investigated the inhibitory effects of berberine on morphineinduced locomotor sensitization and analgesic tolerance in mice. Here, we investigated the
effects of berberine on morphine-induced locomotor sensitization and on the development of
analgesic tolerance. Furthermore, we examined the effects of berberine treatment on Nmethyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor channel activity expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes.
Berberine was found to completely block both morphine-induced locomotor sensitization and
analgesic tolerance, and reduce D<sub>1</sub> and NMDA receptor bindings in the cortex.
Moreover, berberine markedly inhibited NMDA current in Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing
NMDA receptor subunits. Our results suggest that the inhibitory effects of berberine on
morphine-induced locomotor sensitization and analgesic tolerance are closely related to the
modulation of D1 and NMDA receptors, and that berberine should be viewed as a potential
novel means of attenuating morphine-induced sensitization and analgesic tolerance. copyright
2006 IBRO.
ISSN 0306-4522
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Neuroscience
Volume 142
Issue Part 4
Page 953-961
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication 03 Nov 2006
OPIOIDS (A) 2006 <494>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2006516459
Authors Streel E. Dan B. Campanella S. Meyvaert A. Hanak C. Pelc I. Verbanck P.
Institution
(Streel, Hanak, Pelc, Verbanck) Universite Libre de Bruxelles, CHU Brugmann, Laboratoire de Recherche sur la
Biologie des Dependances, Bruxelles, Belgium.
(Dan) Universite Libre de Bruxelles, HUDERF, Bruxelles, Belgium.
(Campanella) Universite Catholique de Louvain-la-Neuve, Faculte de Psychologie et des Sciences de l'Education,
Unite de Neurosciences Cognitives (NESC), Louvain la Neuve, Belgium.
(Meyvaert) Universite Libre de Bruxelles, Service Pharmacie, Bruxelles, Belgium.
(Streel) CHU Brugmann, ULB, Service de Psychiatrie, Place Van Gehuchten, 4, B-1020 Bruxelles, Belgium.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
A pharmacological modulation of opiate withdrawal using an up-/down-regulation of
the noradrenergic system in opiate-dependent rats.
Source
International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology. 9(5)(pp 621-626), 2006. Date of
Publication: Oct 2006.
Abstract
Chronic opioid exposure induces neuroadaptative changes in several brain systems.
Amongst others the alpha adrenergic system appears to be extremely sensitive to opioid
exposure and has, therefore, been proposed to play a key role in opiate withdrawal
symptoms. In order to better understand the influence of the noradrenergic system in opioid
withdrawal and be able to develop new therapeutic strategies, we studied the effect of pretreatment with the alpha<sub>2</sub> agonist (clonidine) and alpha<sub>2</sub> antagonist
(yohimbine) on naloxone-precipitated withdrawal in opiate-dependent rats. As is already
known clonidine pre-treatment significantly enhances autonomic and behavioural signs of
opioid withdrawal whereas yohimbine significantly attenuates them with dose-related effect.
We also tested the effect of clonidine (0.1 mg/kg) during naloxone-precipitated opiate
withdrawal in rats pre-treated with yohimbine (5 mg/kg) and we observed that yohimbine pretreatment potentiates clonidine efficiency in decreasing opiate withdrawal signs. This study
supports the possibility of using a noradrenergic antagonist in order to regulate
adrenoreceptors chronically exposed to opioids, therefore interfering with the intensity of
naloxone-precipitated opiate withdrawal and potentiating later effectiveness of noradrenergic
agonists like clonidine. These results may have various applications in clinical opiate
detoxification protocols and are discussed through an up-/down-regulation of
adrenoreceptors. Copyright copyright 2005 CINP.
ISSN 1461-1457
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology
Volume 9
Issue Part 5
Page 621-626
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Oct 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <510>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2006494260
Authors Frick U. Rehm J. Kovacic S. Ammann J. Uchtenhagen A.
Institution
(Frick, Rehm, Kovacic, Ammann, Uchtenhagen) Research Institute for Addiction and Public Health, Zurich,
Switzerland.
(Frick) Carinthia Tech. Institute, University of Applied Sciences, Austria.
(Kovacic) University of Applied Sciences, Ulm, Germany.
(Rehm) Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ont., Canada.
(Rehm) University of Toronto, Canada.
(Frick) Research Institute for Addiction and Public Health, Konradstr. 32, CH-8031 Zurich, Switzerland.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
A prospective cohort study on orally administered heroin substitution for severely
addicted opioid users.
Source
Addiction. 101(11)(pp 1631-1639), 2006. Date of Publication: Nov 2006.
Abstract
Aims: To assess the efficacy and safety of orally administered heroin [diacetylmorphine
(DAM)] tablets in substitution treatment of severely addicted opioid users. Design: An openlabel, prospective cohort study with two non-randomly assigned treatment arms and historical
controls: DAM tablets only versus DAM tablets combined with injected DAM and/or other
opioids, with an observation period of 1 year. Setting: Twenty-one out-patient treatment
centres of the Swiss heroin-assisted treatment programme. Participants: A total of 128
patients received DAM tablets only, and 237 patients received a combination of orally and
intravenously applied DAM and other opioids. Measurements: Retention rate after 1 year;
number of serious adverse events; dosage of DAM over time; subjective tolerance of study
medication. Findings: In the intention-to-treat analysis, 1-year retention rates after 1 year in
the DAM tablets-only group [0.804, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.735-0.873] as well as in
the subgroup combining oral application of DAM with intravenous application or other opioids
(0.843, 95% CI = 0.797-0.889) were higher compared to historical controls (Swiss cohort of
patients who had been substituted intravenously with DAM; 1-year retention rate = 0.70).
Rates of serious adverse events under study medication (tablets only = 0.038 per application
year; tablets in combination = 0.028 per application year) were comparable to the historical
rate of the Swiss heroin-assisted treatment (0.043). Conclusions: DAM tablets seem to be an
effective and safe application mode of heroin-assisted substitution treatment. Randomized
clinical trials to compare its relative efficacy to other substances are necessary. copyright
2006 The Authors.
ISSN 0965-2140
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Addiction
Volume 101
Issue Part 11
Page 1631-1639
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Nov 2006
OPIOIDS 2006 <511>
Database EMBASE
Accession Number 2006494256
Authors Martin L. Clair J. Davis P. O'Ryan D. Hoshi R. Curran H.V.
Institution
(Martin, Clair, Hoshi, Curran) Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, UCL, London, United Kingdom.
(Davis, O'Ryan) Substance Misuse Services, Camden, United Kingdom.
(Curran) Islington Mental Health and Social Care Trust, London, United Kingdom.
(Curran) Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Health Psychology, University College London, Gower Street,
London WC1 6BT, United Kingdom.
Country of Publication
United Kingdom
Title
Enhanced recognition of facial expressions of disgust in opiate users receiving
maintenance treatment.
Source
Addiction. 101(11)(pp 1598-1605), 2006. Date of Publication: Nov 2006.
Abstract
Aims: Accurate recognition of facial expressions of emotion is critical in interpersonal
interaction but is impaired in alcoholics, even after a period of abstinence. Little is known of
whether other drug-dependent populations also show these impairments. This study aimed to
investigate facial expression recognition by chronic opiate users. Design: An independent
group design was used to compare 20 participants receiving opiate substitution treatment, 20
ex-opiate users in rehabilitation (average abstinence of 6 months) and 21 unemployed
healthy controls. Measurements: The accuracy and speed of recognizing morphed emotional
facial expressions were assessed using an emotional hexagon task. Findings: Current opiate
users were significantly more accurate than ex-users at recognizing expressions of disgust.
They were also generally slower than controls in recognizing all expressions, and slower than
ex-opiate users in recognizing surprise, happy and fearful expressions. Conclusions: Opiate
users in maintenance treatment show a heightened ability to recognize facial expressions of
disgust. We suggest that this may reflect increased exposure to other people's expressions of
disgust and/or priming by the physical and social environments encountered by opiatedependent individuals. Further, opiate maintained individuals' global slowness in processing
emotional expressions may reflect the sedative effects of methadone. copyright 2006 The
Authors.
ISSN 0965-2140
Publication Type Journal: Article
Journal Name Addiction
Volume 101
Issue Part 11
Page 1598-1605
Year of Publication 2006
Date of Publication Nov 2006