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Olesen TB, Glintborg D, Jøhnk F, Olsen MH, Andersen MS. Blood pressure responses to testosterone therapy are amplified by hematocrit levels in opioid-induced androgen deficiency: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. J Hypertens 2024; 42:893-901. [PMID: 38088425 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000003638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Our study aimed to examine the effect of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) on blood pressure in opioid-treated men with relative hypogonadism, and whether the effect of TRT on blood pressure was modified by body composition, red blood cell levels, or carotid intima media thickness. Men (over 18 years old) receiving opioid treatment and total testosterone less than 12 nmol were randomly assigned to receive either TRT or placebo. Baseline and 6-month measurements included anthropometric measurements, office blood pressure (OBPM), 24-h ambulatory blood pressure, blood samples, and carotid ultrasound. The mean systolic OBPM increased by 6.2 mmHg (0.2-12.1) in the TRT group and decreased by 7.0 mmHg (1.0-15.1) in the placebo group, with a mean difference of 13.2 mmHg (3.4-23.1), P = 0.01. In the TRT group, a 10 mmHg increase in systolic OBPM was associated with an increase in hematocrit of 0.3% points (0.1-0.5) ( P = 0.01), whereas no association was observed in the placebo group ( P = 0.266). Daytime SBP showed a nonsignificant increase of 5.2 mmHg (-1.7, 12.1) ( P = 0.134) in the TRT group compared to that in the placebo group. However, the impact of TRT on the increase in daytime ambulatory blood pressure was significantly accentuated by baseline values of BMI, hematocrit, and hemoglobin. In conclusion, TRT was associated with higher OBPM compared to placebo, and the increase in blood pressure was linked to higher hematocrit during TRT. Our data suggest that men with opioid-induced androgen deficiency, particularly those with obesity or red blood cell levels in the upper normal range, are more susceptible to increased daytime SBP during TRT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dorte Glintborg
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense
| | - Frederik Jøhnk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Sygehus Lillebaelt, Kolding
| | - Michael Hecht Olsen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology Section, Holbaek Hospital, Holbaek, Denmark
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2
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McGuirt AF, Brezing CA. Opioid-induced hypogonadism in opioid use disorder, its role in negative reinforcement, and implications for treatment and retention. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2024; 50:132-138. [PMID: 38320237 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2023.2292012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Hypogonadism is a highly prevalent complication of chronic opioid use associated with a constellation of affective, algesic, and cognitive symptoms as well as decreased quality of life. Given that the mainstays of pharmacologic opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment - methadone and buprenorphine - are themselves agonists or partial agonists at the mu opioid receptor, opioid-induced hypogonadism (OIH) remains an underappreciated clinical concern throughout the course of OUD treatment. Prominent theoretical frameworks for OUD emphasize the importance of negative reinforcement and hyperkatifeia, defined as the heightened salience of negative emotional and motivational states brought on by chronic opioid use. In this perspective article, we highlight the striking parallels between the symptom domains of hyperfakifeia and hypogonadism in males, who comprise the vast majority of existing clinical research on OIH. By extension we propose that future research and ultimately clinical care should focus on the identification and treatment of OIH in OUD patients to help address the longstanding paradox of poor treatment retention despite efficacious therapies, particularly in the setting of the current opioid overdose epidemic driven by high potency synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. We then review evidence from chronic pain patients that testosterone replacement provides clinically significant benefits to men with OIH. Finally, using this framework, we compare extant OUD therapeutics and discuss critical gaps in the clinical literature-including the relative dearth of data regarding hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal function in females who use opioids-where future study should be focused.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avery F McGuirt
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christina A Brezing
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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3
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Lesnak JB, Nakhla DS, Plumb AN, McMillan A, Saha S, Gupta N, Xu Y, Phruttiwanichakun P, Rasmussen L, Meyerholz DK, Salem AK, Sluka KA. Selective androgen receptor modulator microparticle formulation reverses muscle hyperalgesia in a mouse model of widespread muscle pain. Pain 2023; 164:1512-1523. [PMID: 36508167 PMCID: PMC10250561 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Chronic pain is a significant health problem associated with disability and reduced quality of life. Current management of chronic pain is inadequate with only modest effects of pharmacological interventions. Thus, there is a need for the generation of analgesics for treating chronic pain. Although preclinical and clinical studies demonstrate the analgesic effects of testosterone, clinical use of testosterone is limited by adverse androgenic effects. Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) activate androgen receptors and overcome treatment limitations by minimizing androgenic side effects. Thus, we tested whether daily soluble SARMs or a SARM-loaded microparticle formulation alleviated muscle hyperalgesia in a mouse-model of widespread pain (male and female C57BL/6J mice). We tested whether the analgesic effects of the SARM-loaded microparticle formulation was mediated through androgen receptors by blocking androgen receptors with flutamide pellets. In vitro and in vivo release kinetics were determined for SARM-loaded microparticles. Safety and toxicity of SARM treatment was determined using serum cardiac and liver toxicity panels, heart histology, and conditioned place preference testing. Subcutaneous daily SARM administration, and 2 injections, 1 week apart, of SARM-loaded microparticles alleviated muscle hyperalgesia in both sexes and was prevented with flutamide treatment. Sustained release of SARM, from the microparticle formulation, was observed both in vitro and in vivo for 4 weeks. Selective androgen receptor modulator treatment produced no cardiac or liver toxicity and did not produce rewarding behaviors. These studies demonstrate that SARM-loaded microparticles, which release drug for a sustained period, alleviate muscle pain, are safe, and may serve as a potential therapeutic for chronic muscle pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B. Lesnak
- Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
| | - David S. Nakhla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
| | - Ashley N. Plumb
- Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
| | - Alexandra McMillan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA
| | - Sanjib Saha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
| | - Nikesh Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
| | - Pornpoj Phruttiwanichakun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
| | - Lynn Rasmussen
- Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
| | | | - Aliasger K. Salem
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
| | - Kathleen A. Sluka
- Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Iowa; Iowa City, IA
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4
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Spaziani M, Carlomagno F, Tarantino C, Angelini F, Vincenzi L, Gianfrilli D. New perspectives in functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: beyond late onset hypogonadism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1184530. [PMID: 37455902 PMCID: PMC10344362 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1184530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (FHH) is an increasingly frequent condition, whose pathological mechanisms are not yet fully clarified. The concept of FHH has now completely replaced that of late onset hypogonadism, that only concerned the ageing man. FHH is the result of an impairment of the hypothalamic-pituitary gonadal axis (HPG-A) function, resulting in decreased testosterone concentrations associated with low or inappropriately normal gonadotropin levels and infertility; it can be diagnosed once organic causes of hypogonadism are excluded. The growing occurrence of FHH derives from its association with widespread conditions, such as obesity and diabetes mellitus, but also to the increasing ease and frequency of use of several drugs, such as opioids, glucocorticoids, and sex steroids. Moreover, given the tendency of many subjects to excessive physical activity and drastic reduction in caloric intake, FHH may also be secondary to low energy availability. Finally, the association with HIV infection should not be overlooked. Therefore, there is an important variability in the diseases that can lead to FHH. Despite the heterogeneity of the underlying pathologies, the mechanisms leading to FHH would seem quite similar, with the initial event represented by the impairment at the HPG-A level. Nevertheless, many different biological pathways are involved in the pathogenesis of FHH, therefore the aim of the current paper is to provide an overview of the main relevant mechanisms, through a detailed analysis of the literature, focusing specifically on pathogenesis and clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Spaziani
- Section of Medical Pathophysiology and Endocrinology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre for Rare Diseases (Endo-ERN Accredited), Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Carlomagno
- Section of Medical Pathophysiology and Endocrinology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre for Rare Diseases (Endo-ERN Accredited), Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Tarantino
- Section of Medical Pathophysiology and Endocrinology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre for Rare Diseases (Endo-ERN Accredited), Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Angelini
- Section of Medical Pathophysiology and Endocrinology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre for Rare Diseases (Endo-ERN Accredited), Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Ludovica Vincenzi
- Section of Medical Pathophysiology and Endocrinology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre for Rare Diseases (Endo-ERN Accredited), Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Gianfrilli
- Section of Medical Pathophysiology and Endocrinology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre for Rare Diseases (Endo-ERN Accredited), Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
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5
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Zhuo S, Zhang Y, Lin C, Peng W. Testosterone administration enhances the expectation and perception of painful and non-painful somatosensory stimuli. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 152:106081. [PMID: 36947967 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
The influence of testosterone on pain perception remains inconsistent in the literature. This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study investigated the effect of testosterone administration on perception and expectation of electrocutaneous stimulus. Thirty healthy male participants received a single dose of testosterone in one session and a placebo in the other session. For each session, they completed a pain-rating task in which a predictability cue was inserted before a painful or non-painful electocutaneous stimulus delivery, while neural activity was simultaneously recorded by a 64-channel electroencephalographic (EEG) system. Expected and perceived pain ratings, as well as event-related potentials (ERPs) to electocutaneous stimuli and prestimulus EEG oscillatory activities while expecting upcoming electocutaneous stimuli were comprehensively compared between testosterone and placebo sessions. Compared with the placebo session, participants in the testosterone session reported greater pain rating and exhibited greater amplitude of N1 component on ERPs when perceiving both painful and non-painful electrocutaneous stimuli. Mediation analysis revealed that testosterone enhanced the pain-intensity ratings via the N1 response to the electrocutaneous stimulus. Upon viewing the predictability cues after testosterone administration, expected pain intensity increased and spontaneous low-frequency α-oscillation power in the frontal region decreased. These results provide evidence that testosterone enhanced perception and expectation of somatosensory events, and that this was a general effect rather than pain-specific. A plausible explanation for these findings is that testosterone acts to increase vigilance and sustained attention levels, as evidenced by the decreased α-oscillation power. Thus, our findings support a causal role for testosterone in heightening the biological salience of incoming somatosensory information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwei Zhuo
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yinhua Zhang
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chennan Lin
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weiwei Peng
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
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6
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Hackett G, Kirby M, Rees RW, Jones TH, Muneer A, Livingston M, Ossei-Gerning N, David J, Foster J, Kalra PA, Ramachandran S. The British Society for Sexual Medicine Guidelines on Male Adult Testosterone Deficiency, with Statements for Practice. World J Mens Health 2023:41.e33. [PMID: 36876744 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.221027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Testosterone deficiency (TD) is an increasingly common problem with significant health implications, but its diagnosis and management can be challenging. A multi-disciplinary panel from BSSM reviewed the available literature on TD and provide evidence-based statements for clinical practice. Evidence was derived from Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane searches on hypogonadism, testosterone therapy (T Therapy) and cardiovascular safety from May 2017 to September 2022. This revealed 1,714 articles, including 52 clinical trials and 32 placebo-controlled randomised controlled trials. A total of twenty-five statements are provided, relating to five key areas: screening, diagnosis, initiating T Therapy, benefits and risks of T Therapy, and follow-up. Seven statements are supported by level 1 evidence, eight by level 2, five by level 3, and five by level 4. Recent studies have demonstrated that low levels of testosterone in men are associated with increased risk of incident type 2 diabetes mellitus, worse outcomes in chronic kidney disease and COVID 19 infection with increased all-cause mortality, along with significant quality of life implications. These guidelines should help practitioners to effectively diagnose and manage primary and age-related TD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Hackett
- Department of Urology, Spire Hospital, Little Aston, Birmingham, UK.,Department of Urology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Michael Kirby
- Trends in Urology and Men's Health, Letchworth, UK.,Faculty of Health & Human Sciences, University of Hertfordshire & The Prostate Centre, London, UK
| | - Rowland W Rees
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Southampton and UCLH, London, UK
| | - T Hugh Jones
- Department of Endocrinology, Barnsley Hospital, Barnsley, UK.,Department of Biochemistry, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK
| | - Asif Muneer
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre UCLH, London, UK
| | - Mark Livingston
- Department of Biochemistry, Black Country Pathology Services, Walsall Manor Hospital, Walsall, UK
| | - Nick Ossei-Gerning
- Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust, Cardiff, UK.,University of South Wales TDS, Bridgend, UK.,Department of Cardiology, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | | | | | - Philip A Kalra
- Department of Nephrology, NCA, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, UK
| | - Sudarshan Ramachandran
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, UK
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7
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Javed F, Ahmed HB, Zafar MS, Shaikh MS, Rossouw PE, Michelogiannakis D, Alstergren P. "Testosterone decreases temporomandibular joint nociception"- A systematic review of studies on animal models. Arch Oral Biol 2022; 139:105430. [PMID: 35461068 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2022.105430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the present systematic review was to assess the effect of testosterone on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) nociception. DESIGN A systematic review of pertinent indexed literature was performed. The focused question addressed was "Is there a connection between testosterone and TMJ nociception?" Original studies were included. In-vitro and ex-vivo studies, case-reports/series, letters to the Editor and commentaries were not sought. Indexed databases were searched without time and language restrictions up to and including September 2021 using different free text key words: testosterone OR "male sex hormones" OR "gonadal hormones" AND "temporomandibular joint" OR "temporomandibular dysfunction" AND nociception AND males. The literature search was performed in accordance with the preferred reporting outcomes of systematic reviews and meta-analysis guidelines. The risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the SYstematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) tool. RESULTS Out of the 406 studies identified, seven studies on animal-models were included. All studies were performed in rats with age and weight ranging between 21 and 90 days and 200-300 g, respectively. Testosterone was administered in concentrations ranging between 1 and 10 mg/Kg. Results from all studies showed that testosterone administration in gonadectomized male rats reduces induced TMJ nociception. The RoB was high in 3 and unclear in 4 studies. CONCLUSION Testosterone offers protection against TMJ nociception in male rats; however, from a clinical perspective, potential contribution of testosterone therapy towards the management of TMD remains indeterminate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fawad Javed
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Eastman Institute for Oral Health, University of Rochester, NY 14620, United States.
| | | | - Muhammad Sohail Zafar
- Department of Restorative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawwarah 41311, Saudi Arabia; Department of Dental Materials, Islamic International Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Saad Shaikh
- Department of Oral Biology, Sindh Institute of Oral Health Sciences, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi 75510, Pakistan
| | - P Emile Rossouw
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Eastman Institute for Oral Health, University of Rochester, NY 14620, United States
| | - Dimitrios Michelogiannakis
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Eastman Institute for Oral Health, University of Rochester, NY 14620, United States
| | - Per Alstergren
- Department of Orofacial Pain and Jaw Function, Faculty of Odontology, Malmö, Sweden; Scandinavian Center for Orofacial Neurosciences (SCON), Malmö, Sweden; Specialized Pain Rehabilitation, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
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8
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Sharp JL, Pearson T, Smith MA. Sex differences in opioid receptor mediated effects: Role of androgens. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 134:104522. [PMID: 34995646 PMCID: PMC8872632 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
An abundance of data indicates there are sex differences in endogenous opioid peptides and opioid receptors, leading to functional differences in sensitivity to opioid receptor mediated behaviors between males and females. Many of these sex differences are mediated by the effects of gonadal hormones on the endogenous opioid system. Whereas much research has examined the role of ovarian hormones on opioid receptor mediated endpoints, comparatively less research has examined the role of androgens. This review describes what is currently known regarding the influence of androgens on opioid receptor mediated endpoints and how androgens may contribute to sex differences in these effects. The review also addresses the clinical implications of androgenic modulation of opioid receptor mediated behaviors and suggests future lines of research for preclinical and clinical investigators. We conclude that further investigation into androgenic modulation of opioid receptor mediated effects may lead to new options for addressing conditions such as chronic pain and substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Sharp
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Davidson College, United States
| | - Tallia Pearson
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Davidson College, United States
| | - Mark A Smith
- Department of Psychology and Program in Neuroscience, Davidson College, United States.
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9
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Gadelha MR, Karavitaki N, Fudin J, Bettinger JJ, Raff H, Ben-Shlomo A. Opioids and pituitary function: expert opinion. Pituitary 2022; 25:52-63. [PMID: 35066756 DOI: 10.1007/s11102-021-01202-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Opioids are highly addictive potent analgesics and anti-allodynics whose use has dramatically increased in recent decades. The precipitous rise in opioid dependency and opioid use disorder is an important public health challenge given the risks for severely adverse health outcomes. The long-term opioid impact on hypothalamic-pituitary axes is particularly underappreciated among both endocrinologists and primary care physicians. We review the effects of opioids on hypothalamic-pituitary-target gland function and their implications for clinical practice. METHODS Experts in hypothalamic-pituitary disorders and opioid pharmacology reviewed recently published literature and considered strategies for diagnosing and managing these opioid-induced endocrine effects. RESULTS Opioid suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary axes can lead to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, central adrenal insufficiency, and hyperprolactinemia. These important clinical manifestations are often under-estimated, poorly evaluated, and typically either untreated or not optimally managed. Data on biochemical testing for diagnosis and on the effect of hormone replacement in these patients is limited and prospective randomized controlled studies for guiding clinical practice are lacking. CONCLUSIONS Patients should be informed about risks for hypogonadism, adrenal insufficiency, and hyperprolactinemia, and encouraged to report associated symptoms. Based on currently available evidence, we recommend clinical and biochemical evaluation for potential central adrenal insufficiency, central hypogonadism, and/or hyperprolactinemia in patients chronically treated with opioids as well as the use of current expert guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mônica R Gadelha
- Endocrine Unit and Neuroendocrinology Research Center, Medical School and Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho - Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Neuroendocrine Unit - Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Secretaria Estadual de Saúde, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Neuropathology and Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer, Secretaria Estadual de Saúde, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Niki Karavitaki
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jeffrey Fudin
- President, Remitigate Therapeutics, Delmar, NY, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Albany College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Albany, NY, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Western New England University College of Pharmacy, Springfield, MA, USA
- Department of Pharmacy and Pain Management, Stratton VA Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Bettinger
- Pain Management and Addiction Medicine, Saratoga Hospital Medical Group, Saratoga Springs, NY, USA
| | - Hershel Raff
- Division of Endocrinology and Molecular Medicine, Departments of Medicine, Surgery, and Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
- Endocrine Research Laboratory, Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center, Advocate Aurora Research Institute, 2801 W KK River Pky Suite 260, Milwaukee, WI, 53215, USA.
| | - Anat Ben-Shlomo
- Pituitary Center, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Multidisciplinary Adrenal Program, Departments of Medicine and Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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10
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Kolind MI, Christensen LL, Caserotti P, Andersen MS, Glintborg D. Muscle function following testosterone replacement in men on opioid therapy for chronic non-cancer pain: A randomized controlled trial. Andrology 2021; 10:551-559. [PMID: 34933416 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain and opioid treatment are associated with increased risk of male hypogonadism and subsequently decreased muscle function. A diagnosis of hypogonadism is based on the presence of low total testosterone and associated symptoms. The effect of testosterone replacement therapy on muscle function in men with chronic pain and low total testosterone remains to be investigated. OBJECTIVES To investigate the effects of testosterone replacement therapy on muscle function and gait performance in men treated with opioids for chronic non-cancer pain. MATERIALS AND METHODS A double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Forty-one men (>18 years) with opioid-treated chronic pain and serum total testosterone < 12 nmol/L were randomized to 24 weeks testosterone replacement therapy (testosterone undecanoate injection three times/6 months, n = 20) or placebo injections (n = 21). Muscle function was measured as leg press maximal voluntary contraction, leg extension power using the Nottingham power rig and handgrip strength using a handheld dynameter. Gait performance was measured at usual and maximal gait speed on a 10-m track. Body composition (lean body mass and fat mass) was determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Mann-Whitney tests were performed on ∆-values (24-0 weeks) between testosterone replacement therapy and placebo. RESULTS At baseline, median (interquartile range) age was 55 ± 13 years and BMI was 30.7 ± 5.2 kg/m2 . ∆-muscle function and ∆-gait performance were similar between testosterone replacement therapy and placebo. Median ∆-leg press maximal voluntary contraction was 174.2 ± 406.7 Newton, following testosterone replacement therapy, and 7.6 ± 419.1 Newton, after placebo, p = 0.091. ∆-lean body mass was significantly higher following testosterone replacement therapy compared to placebo, 3.6 ± 2.7 versus 0.1 ± 3.5 kg, respectively (p < 0.001). DISCUSSION Testosterone replacement therapy, compared to placebo, did not improve muscle function or gait performance despite increased lean body mass. Changes in body composition did not infer any changes in muscle function. CONCLUSION 24 weeks testosterone replacement therapy in opioid-treated men with pain-related male hypogonadism did not improve muscle function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikkel Iwanoff Kolind
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Paolo Caserotti
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Dorte Glintborg
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,OPEN, Open, Patient data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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11
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Abstract
Androgens are potent drugs requiring prescription for valid medical indications but are misused for invalid, unproven, or off-label reasons as well as being abused without prescription for illicit nonmedical application for performance or image enhancement. Following discovery and first clinical application of testosterone in the 1930s, commercialization of testosterone and synthetic androgens proliferated in the decades after World War II. It remains among the oldest marketed drugs in therapeutic use, yet after 8 decades of clinical use, the sole unequivocal indication for testosterone remains in replacement therapy for pathological hypogonadism, organic disorders of the male reproductive system. Nevertheless, wider claims assert unproven, unsafe, or implausible benefits for testosterone, mostly representing wishful thinking about rejuvenation. Over recent decades, this created an epidemic of testosterone misuse involving prescription as a revitalizing tonic for anti-aging, sexual dysfunction and/or obesity, where efficacy and safety remains unproven and doubtful. Androgen abuse originated during the Cold War as an epidemic of androgen doping among elite athletes for performance enhancement before the 1980s when it crossed over into the general community to become an endemic variant of drug abuse in sufficiently affluent communities that support an illicit drug industry geared to bodybuilding and aiming to create a hypermasculine body physique and image. This review focuses on the misuse of testosterone, defined as prescribing without valid clinical indications, and abuse of testosterone or synthetic androgens (androgen abuse), defined as the illicit use of androgens without prescription or valid indications, typically by athletes, bodybuilders and others for image-oriented, cosmetic, or occupational reasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Handelsman
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Andrology Department, Concord Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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12
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de Graaf JP, de Vries F, Dirkson A, Hiort O, Pereira AM, Korbonits M, Cools M. Patients with rare endocrine conditions have corresponding views on unmet needs in clinical research. Endocrine 2021; 71:561-568. [PMID: 33534110 PMCID: PMC8016771 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-021-02618-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE European Reference Network on Rare Endocrine Conditions' (Endo-ERN) mission is to reduce and ultimately abolish inequalities in care for patients with rare endocrine conditions in Europe. This study assesses which themes related to rare endocrine conditions are prioritized by patients for clinical research. METHODS A survey was developed, translated into 22 different European languages, and distributed to patients with rare endocrine conditions. Patients were asked to give priority scores to listed prespecified topics: fertility, heritability, tiredness, daily medicine intake, sleep quality, physical discomfort, and ability to work, partake in social life, and sports. They were also asked to suggest further important areas for research in open fields. RESULTS After data cleaning, 1378 survey responses were analyzed. Most responses were received from Northern (47%) and Western Europeans (39%), while Southern (11%) and Eastern Europe (2%) were underrepresented. Respondents were most interested in research concerning ability to participate in social life and work. Patients suggested key areas to work: long-term side effects of medical treatments and quality of life. Some priorities differed between disease groups, both for prespecified and open topics and reflected aspects of patients' individual conditions. CONCLUSIONS With this large survey, Endo-ERN gained insight into patients' unmet needs in scientific research. Patients prioritized research on ability to work and participation in social activities, though needs differ between the disease groups. Clinical experts should incorporate the results of this survey into the design of future studies on rare endocrine conditions. We aim to utilize these results in designing patient-reported outcome measures for the disease areas covered by Endo-ERN.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Friso de Vries
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Centre for Endocrine Tumors Leiden (CETL), Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Anne Dirkson
- Leiden Institute for Advanced Computer Science, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Olaf Hiort
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Alberto M Pereira
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Centre for Endocrine Tumors Leiden (CETL), Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Márta Korbonits
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Martine Cools
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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13
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Marudhai S, Patel M, Valaiyaduppu Subas S, Ghani MR, Busa V, Dardeir A, Cancarevic I. Long-term Opioids Linked to Hypogonadism and the Role of Testosterone Supplementation Therapy. Cureus 2020; 12:e10813. [PMID: 33173622 PMCID: PMC7645309 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.10813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Opioids play a pivotal role in managing chronic pain with increasing prescription rates over the last few years. Hence, it is crucial to focus on the adverse effects of narcotics, and one of the lesser-known side effects is hypogonadism. Opioids act on the hypothalamus, pituitary, and directly on the gonads affecting serum testosterone levels. Narcotic-induced androgen insufficiency contributes to sexual dysfunction, infertility, hyperalgesia, and involving various body functions overall, affecting the quality of life. Opioid-induced hypogonadism is very challenging to diagnose for the clinicians, as the patients often under-report the symptoms. There are no established guidelines to analyze androgen insufficiency and dealing with their manifestations successfully. We did a substantial search in PubMed and Google Scholar, using various combinations of keywords to collect data to evaluate the impacts of opioids on serum testosterone levels. This study aims to highlight the clinical significance of opioid-induced androgen deficiency and the diagnostic techniques to recognize and credible treatment alternatives, including testosterone replacement therapy. Health care providers should screen the patients routinely for the signs and symptoms and monitor them often for the hormonal changes to select the patients cautiously for testosterone replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suganya Marudhai
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Mauli Patel
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | | | - Mohammad R Ghani
- Neurology, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Vishal Busa
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Ahmed Dardeir
- Internal Medicine/Family Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Ivan Cancarevic
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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