NCJ Number
197026
Journal
Addiction Volume: 97 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2002 Pages: 819-824
Editor(s)
Griffith Edwards
Date Published
July 2002
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of L-type calcium channel blockers in outpatient opiate detoxification.
Abstract
This study was designed as a controlled trial with sequential allocation of 80 patients to 3 groups. These three groups of individuals, subject to opiate detoxification over a period of 7 days, were the experimental group receiving a course of nimodipine and dextropropoxiphen; one control group receiving a course of dextropropoxiphen and benzodiazepine; and a second control group receiving a standard course of a-2-adrenergic agents and naltrexone. It was reported that all groups showed a significant opiate withdrawal syndrome during detoxification. However, the group treated with L-type channel blockers immediately showed 50 percent fewer symptoms than the control groups, and appeared comfortable and free of complication without significant side effects. Tables are included showing treatment doses for the three groups and a sample characteristics contrast of differences. An included figure gives the evolution of the opiate withdrawal syndrome over the 7 day period. In conclusion, it is suggested that the use of calcium channel blockers, such as nimodipine in combination with opiate agonists, may be an effective method for opiate detoxification. It is recommended that full randomized trials be conducted in the future, and that basic studies providing clarification on the action mechanisms of the L-type calcium channels in the processes mediated by opiates. References