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Ayieng'a EO, Afify EA, Abuiessa SA, Elblehi SS, El-Gowilly SM, El-Mas MM. Morphine aggravates inflammatory, behavioral, and hippocampal structural deficits in septic rats. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21460. [PMID: 38052832 PMCID: PMC10697987 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46427-y] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although pain and sepsis are comorbidities of intensive care units, reported data on whether pain control by opioid analgesics could alter inflammatory and end-organ damage caused by sepsis remain inconclusive. Here, we tested the hypothesis that morphine, the gold standard narcotic analgesic, modifies behavioral and hippocampal structural defects induced by sepsis in male rats. Sepsis was induced with cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and behavioral studies were undertaken 24 h later in septic and/or morphine-treated animals. The induction of sepsis or exposure to morphine (7 mg/kg) elicited similar: (i) falls in systolic blood pressure, (ii) alterations in spatial memory and learning tested by the Morris water maze, and (iii) depression of exploratory behavior measured by the new object recognition test. These hemodynamic and cognitive defects were significantly exaggerated in septic rats treated with morphine compared with individual interventions. Similar patterns of amplified inflammatory (IL-1β) and histopathological signs of hippocampal damage were noted in morphine-treated septic rats. Additionally, the presence of intact opioid receptors is mandatory for the induction of behavioral and hemodynamic effects of morphine because no such effects were observed when the receptors were blocked by naloxone. That said, our findings suggest that morphine provokes sepsis manifestations of inflammation and interrelated hemodynamic, behavioral, and hippocampal deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evans O Ayieng'a
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 1-El-Khartoum Square-Azarita, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
| | - Elham A Afify
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 1-El-Khartoum Square-Azarita, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt.
| | - Salwa A Abuiessa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 1-El-Khartoum Square-Azarita, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
| | - Samar S Elblehi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Sahar M El-Gowilly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 1-El-Khartoum Square-Azarita, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud M El-Mas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 1-El-Khartoum Square-Azarita, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait, Kuwait
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Carisoprodol Single and Multiple Dose PK-PD. Part II: Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Method for Central Muscle Relaxants. Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial in Healthy Volunteers. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11041141. [PMID: 35207414 PMCID: PMC8876044 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11041141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxants (CMR) such as carisoprodol are used to treat acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions, though its precise mode of action has not been characterized. A double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial was designed to evaluate the pharmacokinetics–pharmacodynamics (PKPD) of CMR after single (350 mg), double (700 mg), and multiple doses (up to 350 mg/8 h, 14 days) of carisoprodol. Muscular (Electromyogram–EMG, muscular strength dynamometry), central (sedation), and tolerability (psychomotor activity test, adverse events) parameters, as well as withdrawal symptoms, were evaluated. Thirteen healthy volunteers were enrolled. No evidence of direct muscle relaxation was evidenced, but some differences on sedation were evidenced throughout the study, suggesting that CMRs act, at least partly, through sedation. Most significant differences were detected at 1.5 h after dosing. The effect on psychomotor impairment was variable, most prominently after 1.5 h, too, suggesting that it is produced by carisoprodol rather than by meprobamate. No withdrawal symptoms were detected, so the risk of dependence following maximum doses and duration of treatment recommended, and under medical supervision, should be low.
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Robert C, Soulier A, Sciard D, Dufour G, Alberti C, Boizeau P, Beaussier M. Cognitive status of patients judged fit for discharge from the post-anaesthesia care unit after general anaesthesia: a randomized comparison between desflurane and propofol. BMC Anesthesiol 2021; 21:76. [PMID: 33706698 PMCID: PMC7948375 DOI: 10.1186/s12871-021-01287-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Aldrete’s score is used to determine when a patient can safely leave the Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU) and be transferred to the surgical ward. The Aldrete score is based on the evaluation of vital signs and consciousness. Cognitive functions according to the anaesthetic strategy at the time the patient is judged fit for discharge from the PACU (Aldrete’s score ≥ 9) have not been previously studied. The aim of this trial was to assess the cognitive status of inpatients emerging either from desflurane or propofol anaesthesia, at the time of PACU discharge (Aldrete score ≥ 9). Methods Sixty adult patients scheduled for hip or knee arthroplasty under general anaesthesia were randomly allocated to receive either desflurane or propofol anaesthesia. Patients were evaluated the day before surgery using Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), Stroop Color Test and Verbal Learning Test. After surgery, the Aldrete score was checked every 5 min until reaching a score ≥ 9. At this time, the same battery of cognitive tests was applied. Each test was evaluated separately. Cognitive status was reported using a combined Z score pooling together the results of all 3 cognitive tests. Results Among the 3 tests, only DSST was significantly reduced at Aldrete Score ≥ 9 in the Desflurane group. Combined Z-scores at Aldrete Score ≥ 9 were (in medians [interquartils]): − 0.2 [− 1.2;+ 0.6] and − 0.4 [− 1.1;+ 0.4] for desflurane and propofol groups respectively (P = 0.62). Cognitive dysfunction at Aldrete score ≥ 9 was observed in 3 patients in the Propofol group and in 2 patients in the Desflurane group) (P = 0.93). Conclusion No difference was observed in cognitive status at Aldrete score ≥ 9 between desflurane and propofol anaesthesia. Although approximately 10% of patients still had cognitive dysfunctions, an Aldrete score ≥ 9 was associated with satisfactory cognitive function recovery in the majority of the patients after lower limb arthroplasty surgery under general anaesthesia. Trial registration Clinical Trials identifier NTC02036736.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyrille Robert
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, Clinique Mutualiste de Pessac, Pessac, France
| | - Anne Soulier
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, St-Antoine Hospital. Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Didier Sciard
- Department of Anaesthesia, Institut Mutualiste Montsouris, 42 Boulevard Jourdan, 75014, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Dufour
- Department of Anaesthesia, Institut Mutualiste Montsouris, 42 Boulevard Jourdan, 75014, Paris, France
| | - Corinne Alberti
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, CHU Robert Debré, University Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, CIC-EC 1426 and, UMR-S 1123 ECEVE, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Priscilla Boizeau
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, CHU Robert Debré, University Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, CIC-EC 1426 and, UMR-S 1123 ECEVE, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Marc Beaussier
- Department of Anaesthesia, Institut Mutualiste Montsouris, 42 Boulevard Jourdan, 75014, Paris, France.
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Cameron-Burr KT, Conicella A, Neavyn MJ. Opioid Use and Driving Performance. J Med Toxicol 2021; 17:289-308. [PMID: 33403571 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-020-00819-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The USA is in an opioid epidemic, with an increased number of individuals taking psychoactive drugs while executing the tasks of everyday life, including operating a motor vehicle. The pharmacology of opioids has been widely studied, but the effects of opioids on psychomotor function, driving performance, and the risk of motor vehicle collision remain less clear. Clinicians are faced with the challenge of controlling patient pain while also reconciling conflicting messages from the literature about how safe it is for their patients taking opioids to engage in potentially dangerous routine tasks. DISCUSSION This review assesses the current literature regarding opioids as they relate to neurocognitive function, driving performance, and accident risk. Manuscripts are categorized by study context and subject matter: controlled experimental administration, illicit use, prescription use, retrospective forensic toxicology, and polydrug consumption. CONCLUSION Illicit use, initiation of therapy, and opioid use in combination with other psychoactive medications are contexts most clearly associated with impairment of driving-related functions and/or operation of a motor vehicle. Clinicians should counsel patients on the risk of impairment when initiating therapy, when co-prescribing opioids and other psychoactive drugs, or when a patient is suspected of having an opioid use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keaton T Cameron-Burr
- Division of Medical Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Albert Conicella
- Division of Medical Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA.
| | - Mark J Neavyn
- Division of Medical Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
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The role of opioidergic system in modulating cost/benefit decision-making in alcohol-preferring AA rats and Wistar rats. Behav Pharmacol 2020; 32:220-228. [PMID: 33229893 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Research has highlighted the association of a positive family history of alcoholism with a positive treatment response to opioid antagonists in those with a gambling disorder. However, the role of the opioidergic system in gambling behavior is not well understood, and preclinical studies are needed to clarify this. In this study, Alko Alcohol (AA) and Wistar rats went through operant lever pressing training where the task was to choose the more profitable of two options. Different sized sucrose rewards guided the lever choices, and the probability of gaining rewards changed slowly to a level where choosing the smaller reward was the most profitable option. After training, rats were administered subcutaneously with opioid agonist morphine or opioid antagonist naltrexone to study the impact of opioidergic mechanisms on cost/benefit decisions. No difference was found in the decision-making between AA rats or Wistar rats after the morphine administration, but control data revealed a minor decision enhancing effect in AA rats. Naltrexone had no impact on the decisions in AA rats but promoted unprofitable decisions in Wistar rats. Supporting behavioral data showed that in both rat strains morphine increased, and naltrexone decreased, sucrose consumption. Naltrexone also increased the time to accomplish the operant task. The results suggest that opioid agonists could improve decision-making in cost-benefit settings in rats that are naturally prone to high alcohol drinking. The naltrexone results are ambiguous but may partly explain why opioid antagonists lack a positive pharmacotherapeutic effect in some subgroups of gamblers.
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6
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Opioid system modulation of cognitive affective bias: implications for the treatment of mood disorders. Behav Pharmacol 2020; 31:122-135. [DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Berthier JM, Semple S. Observing grooming promotes affiliation in Barbary macaques. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 285:20181964. [PMID: 30963904 PMCID: PMC6304063 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.1964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Observing friendly social interactions makes people feel good and, as a result, then act in an affiliative way towards others. Positive visual contagion of this kind is common in humans, but whether it occurs in non-human animals is unknown. We explored the impact on female Barbary macaques of observing grooming, a behaviour that physiological and behavioural studies indicate has a relaxing effect on the animals involved. We compared females' behaviour between two conditions: after observing conspecifics groom, and in a matched control period. We found that observing grooming was associated with reduced behavioural indicators of anxiety, suggesting that seeing others groom is, in itself, relaxing. Observing grooming was also associated with a shorter latency to becoming involved in a grooming bout (and higher likelihood both of initiating that bout and being the groomer rather than groomee), and with elevated rates of other affiliative behaviours. These results provide evidence for positive visual contagion; this phenomenon may contribute fundamentally to group cohesion not just in this species, but also in the many mammal and bird species where grooming occurs. Our study highlights the importance of exploring social behaviour beyond the level of the interacting individuals, within the broader social context where it occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stuart Semple
- Centre for Research in Evolutionary, Social and Interdisciplinary Anthropology, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
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Motaghinejad M, Fatima S, Banifazl S, Bangash MY, Karimian M. Study of the effects of controlled morphine administration for treatment of anxiety, depression and cognition impairment in morphine-addicted rats. Adv Biomed Res 2016; 5:178. [PMID: 28028518 PMCID: PMC5156972 DOI: 10.4103/2277-9175.188491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Morphine dependency usually results in undesired outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and cognitive alterations. In this study, morphine was used to manage morphine dependence-induced anxiety, depression, and learning and memory disturbances. Materials and Methods: Forty rats were divided equally into five groups. Group 1 received saline for 21 days. Groups 2–5 were dependent by increasing administration of morphine (15–45 mg/kg) for 7 days. For the next 14 days, morphine was administered as the following regimen: Group 2: once daily; 45 mg/kg (positive controls), Group 3: the same dose with an increasing interval (6 h longer than the previous intervals each time), Group 4: the same dose with an irregular intervals (12, 24, 36 h intervals interchangeably), and Group 5: decreasing doses once daily (every time 2.5 mg/kg less than the former dosage). On days 22–26, elevated plus maze (EPM), open field test (OFT), forced swim test (FST), and tail suspension test (TST) were performed to investigate anxiety level and depression in animals. Between 17th and 21st days, Morris water maze (MWM) was used to evaluate the spatial learning and memory. Results: Chronic morphine administration caused depression and anxiety as observed by FST, EPM, and TST and decreased motor activity in OFT and caused impairment in learning and memory performance in MWM. Treatment with our protocol as increasing interval, irregular interval, and decreasing dosage of morphine caused marked reduction in depression, anxiety, and improved cognition performance compared with positive control group; and attenuated motor deficits in morphine-dependent rats, remarkably. Conclusions: Change in dosage regimens of morphine can reduce morphine-induced anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Motaghinejad
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sulail Fatima
- Department of Physiology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, International Campus, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sanaz Banifazl
- Department of Surgery and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Yasan Bangash
- Department of Surgery and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Karimian
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Chelnokova O, Laeng B, Løseth G, Eikemo M, Willoch F, Leknes S. The µ-opioid system promotes visual attention to faces and eyes. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2016; 11:1902-1909. [PMID: 27531386 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsw116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 07/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Paying attention to others' faces and eyes is a cornerstone of human social behavior. The µ-opioid receptor (MOR) system, central to social reward-processing in rodents and primates, has been proposed to mediate the capacity for affiliative reward in humans. We assessed the role of the human MOR system in visual exploration of faces and eyes of conspecifics. Thirty healthy males received a novel, bidirectional battery of psychopharmacological treatment (an MOR agonist, a non-selective opioid antagonist, or placebo, on three separate days). Eye-movements were recorded while participants viewed facial photographs. We predicted that the MOR system would promote visual exploration of faces, and hypothesized that MOR agonism would increase, whereas antagonism decrease overt attention to the information-rich eye region. The expected linear effect of MOR manipulation on visual attention to the stimuli was observed, such that MOR agonism increased while antagonism decreased visual exploration of faces and overt attention to the eyes. The observed effects suggest that the human MOR system promotes overt visual attention to socially significant cues, in line with theories linking reward value to gaze control and target selection. Enhanced attention to others' faces and eyes represents a putative behavioral mechanism through which the human MOR system promotes social interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Chelnokova
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0317, Norway
| | - Bruno Laeng
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0317, Norway
| | - Guro Løseth
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0317, Norway
| | - Marie Eikemo
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0317, Norway.,Norwegian Center for Addiction Research, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0318, Norway.,Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo N-0318, Norway
| | - Frode Willoch
- Department of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0316, Norway
| | - Siri Leknes
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0317, Norway.,Department of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0316, Norway.,The Intervention Centre, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo N-0424, Norway
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Furger RE, Nelson LD, Lerner EB, McCrea MA. Frequency of Factors that Complicate the Identification of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Level I Trauma Center Patients. Concussion 2016; 1:CNC11. [PMID: 27134757 PMCID: PMC4847751 DOI: 10.2217/cnc.15.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Determine the frequency of factors that complicate identification of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in emergency department (ED) patients. SETTING Chart review. MATERIALS & METHODS Records of 3,042 patients (age 18-45) exposed to a potential mechanism of mTBI were reviewed for five common complicating factors and signs of mTBI. RESULTS Most patients (65.1%) had at least one complicating factor: given narcotics in the ED (43.7%), on psychotropic medication (18.4%), psychiatric diagnosis (15.3%), alcohol consumption near time of admission (14.2%), and pre-admission narcotic prescription (8.9%). CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the frequency of these confounding factors in this population. Future research should identify how these factors interact with performance on assessment measures to improve evidence-based mTBI assessment in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn E Furger
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Lindsay D Nelson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - E Brooke Lerner
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Michael A McCrea
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Manthey L, van Loenen-Frösch F, Giltay EJ, van Veen T, Glashouwer K, Penninx BWJH, Zitman FG. High dose benzodiazepines prolong reaction times in chronic users who have major depressive and/or anxiety disorders. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2014; 77:571-7. [PMID: 23962205 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Short term administration of benzodiazepines (BZD) was found to prolong reaction time (RT) in experimental studies. However, studies on long term BZD use did not always adjust for important confounders and showed inconsistent results. We aimed to identify a possible relationship between long term BZD use and RT in BZD users in this large cross-sectional, observational study. METHODS The RTs of non-users (n = 2404) were compared with low (n = 288), intermediate (n = 74), and high dose BZD users (n = 57) in the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (NESDA). RTs were obtained from the Implicit Association Test. Analyses were adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, health indicators, severity of psychopathology and antidepressant use. RESULTS Of the NESDA participants, 419 subjects (14.8%) used BZDs. A higher dose of BZDs was associated with prolonged RTs (P = 0.01). When comparing the different dose groups, the high dose group, but not the low and medium dose groups, had significantly longer RTs than the non-users. CONCLUSIONS Tolerance for the RT prolonging effect of relatively high doses of BZDs does not seem to develop. As prolonged RTs can have adverse consequences in daily life, BZDs should be prescribed conservatively at the lowest possible dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Manthey
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
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12
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Landais A. Severe memory impairment following acute morphine intoxication. J Neurol Sci 2014; 343:242-4. [PMID: 24948561 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2014.05.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 05/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Landais
- University Hospital of Pointe-à-Pitre/CHU de Pointe-à-Pitre, Neurology Unit, Route de Chauvel, 97139 Abymes, France.
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Sundgren M, Maurex L, Wahlin Å, Piehl F, Brismar T. Cognitive impairment has a strong relation to nonsomatic symptoms of depression in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2013; 28:144-55. [PMID: 23291310 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acs113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
It is unclear how cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS) is influenced by physical disability, fatigue, and depression. Our aim was to identify the strongest clinical predictors for cognitive impairment in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients. The clinical risk factors included in the analysis were physical disability (EDSS), fatigue (FSS), the somatic and nonsomatic components of depression (BDI), disease progression rate [Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS)], and psychotropic medication. Cognitive impairment had a prevalence of 30.5% in patients affecting preferentially attention, executive functions, processing speed and visual perception/organization. MSSS was not associated with cognitive impairment, depression, or fatigue. In regression models, cognitive performance was best predicted by the nonsomatic symptoms of depression alone or in combination with physical disability. Exclusion of patients with any psychotropic medication did not influence the results. Our results underscore the importance of evaluating depressive symptoms when suspecting cognitive impairment in patients with RRMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Sundgren
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Opioid control of behaviour in sheep: Effects of morphine and naloxone on food intake, activity and the affective state. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2012.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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15
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Abstract
This paper reviews the value and utility of measuring cognitive function in the development of new medicines by reference to the most widely used automated system in clinical research. Evidence is presented from phase 1 to 3 of the nature and quality of the information that can be obtained by applying the Cognitive Drug Research computerized assessment system to ongoing clinical trials. Valuable evidence can be obtained even in the first trial in which a novel compound is administered to man. One application of such testing is to ensure that novel compounds are relatively free from cognition-impairing properties, particularly in relation to competitor products. Another is to ensure that unwanted interactions with alcohol and other medications do not occur, or, if they do, to put them in context. In many patient populations, cognitive dysfunction occurs as a result of the disease process, and newer medicines which can treat the symptoms of the disease without further impairing function can often reveal benefits as the disease-induced cognitive dysfunction is reduced. Another major application is to identify benefits for compounds designed to enhance cognitive function. Such effects can be sought in typical phase 1 trials, or a scopolamine model of the core deficits of Alzheimer's disease can be used to screen potential antidernentia drugs. Ultimately, of course, such effects can be demonstrated using properly validated and highly sensitive automated procedures in the target populations. The data presented demonstrate that the concept of independently assessing a variety of cognitive functions is crucial in helping differentiate drugs, types of dementia, and different illnesses. Such information offers a unique insight into how the alterations to various cognitive functions will manifest themselves in everyday behavior. This reveals a major limitation of scales that yield a single score, because such limited information does not permit anything but a quantitative interpretation; and the concept of "more" cognitive function or "less" is manifestly inappropriate for something as complex and diverse as the interplay between cognitive function and human behavior. Finally, the next generations of cognitive testing are described. Testing via the telephone has just been introduced and will have dramatic effects on the logistics of conducting cognitive testing in large patient trials. Testing via the Internet is not far off either, and will come fully into play as the proportion of homes connected to the Internet increases in Europe and North America. There are no sound reasons for not wishing to include cognitive function testing in the development protocol of any novel medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Wesnes
- Cognitive Drug Research Ltd, Reading, UK
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16
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The effects of acute and chronic steady state methadone on memory retrieval in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2012; 222:225-35. [PMID: 22258154 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-012-2638-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2011] [Accepted: 12/30/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Although widely prescribed to treat opioid addiction, little is known about the possible side effects of methadone on memory functions. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study is to compare the effects of acute and chronic methadone on memory retrieval in rats and to explore the selectivity of possible deficits. METHODS Administration of acute (0, 1.25, 2.5, and 5 mg/kg SC) and chronic steady state methadone (0, 10, 30, and 55 mg/kg/day SC by osmotic mini-pump) was tested on recall of three different types of information: stimulus-reward (10-arm parallel maze), stimulus-response (8-arm radial maze), and stimulus-stimulus (Barnes maze). Acute and steady state methadone doses were also compared on tests of locomotor activity and reactivity to aversive stimuli (i.e., swimming and acoustic startle). RESULTS In the stimulus-reward task, acute methadone impaired performance as a result of severe depression of locomotion. This motor deficit, however, was modulated by the motivational valence of environmental stimulation. In fact, acute methadone did not eliminate forced swimming behavior. In the stimulus-response and stimulus-stimulus tasks, accuracy was impaired independently of direct motor deficits, but rats were hyper-reactive to aversive stimulation and, in fact, 5 mg/kg enhanced acoustic startle. Importantly, chronic steady state methadone did not affect accuracy of memory retrieval, did not depress motor or swimming activity, and did not change startle reactivity. CONCLUSION Only acute methadone impaired accuracy and/or performance on three tests of memory retrieval. These findings in rats suggest that memory deficits reported in methadone-maintained individuals may not be directly attributable to methadone.
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Eckner JT, Chandran S, Richardson JK. Investigating the role of feedback and motivation in clinical reaction time assessment. PM R 2012; 3:1092-7. [PMID: 21852221 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2011.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2011] [Revised: 04/20/2011] [Accepted: 04/28/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the influence of performance feedback and motivation during 2 tests of simple visuomotor reaction time (RT). DESIGN Cross-sectional, observational study. SETTING Outpatient academic physiatry clinic. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-one healthy adults (mean [SD], 54 ± 15 years). METHODS Participants completed a clinical test of RT (RT(clin)) and a computerized test of RT with and without performance feedback (RT(compFB) and RT(compNoFB), respectively) in randomly assigned order. They then ranked their degree of motivation during each test. RT(clin) measured the time required to catch a suspended vertical shaft by hand closure after release of the shaft by the examiner. RT(compFB) and RT(compNoFB) both measured the time required to press a computer key in response to a visual cue displayed on a computer monitor. Performance feedback (visual display of the previous trial and summary results) was provided for RT(compFB), but not for RT(compNoFB). MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Means and standard deviations of RT(clin), RT(compFB), and RT(compNoFB) and participants' self-reported motivation on a 5-point Likert scale for each test. RESULTS There were significant differences in both the means and standard deviations of RT(clin), RT(compFB), and RT(compNoFB) (F(2,60) = 81.66, P < .0001; F(2,60) = 32.46, P < .0001, respectively), with RT(clin) being both the fastest and least variable of the RT measurements. RT(clin) was more strongly correlated with RT(compFB) (r = 0.449, P = .0011) than with RT(compNoFB) (r = 0.314, P = .086). The participants reported similar levels of motivation between RT(clin) and RT(compFB), both of which were reported to be more motivating than RT(compNoFB). CONCLUSIONS The stronger correlation between RT(clin) and RT(compFB) as well as the higher reported motivation during RT(clin) and RT(compFB) testing suggest that performance feedback is a positive motivating factor that is inherent to RT(clin) testing. RT(clin) is a simple, inexpensive technique for measuring RT and appears to be an intrinsically motivating task. This motivation may promote faster, more consistent RT performance compared with currently available computerized programs, which do not typically provide performance feedback.
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Affiliation(s)
- James T Eckner
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA.
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Pountos I, Georgouli T, Calori GM, Giannoudis PV. Do nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs affect bone healing? A critical analysis. ScientificWorldJournal 2012; 2012:606404. [PMID: 22272177 PMCID: PMC3259713 DOI: 10.1100/2012/606404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2011] [Accepted: 10/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) play an essential part in our approach to control pain in the posttraumatic setting. Over the last decades, several studies suggested that NSAIDs interfere with bone healing while others contradict these findings. Although their analgesic potency is well proven, clinicians remain puzzled over the potential safety issues. We have systematically reviewed the available literature, analyzing and presenting the available in vitro animal and clinical studies on this field. Our comprehensive review reveals the great diversity of the presented data in all groups of studies. Animal and in vitro studies present so conflicting data that even studies with identical parameters have opposing results. Basic science research defining the exact mechanism with which NSAIDs could interfere with bone cells and also the conduction of well-randomized prospective clinical trials are warranted. In the absence of robust clinical or scientific evidence, clinicians should treat NSAIDs as a risk factor for bone healing impairment, and their administration should be avoided in high-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ippokratis Pountos
- Academic Department of Trauma & Orthopaedics, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS1 3EX, UK
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Chavant F, Favrelière S, Lafay-Chebassier C, Plazanet C, Pérault-Pochat MC. Memory disorders associated with consumption of drugs: updating through a case/noncase study in the French PharmacoVigilance Database. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2011; 72:898-904. [PMID: 21557759 PMCID: PMC3244635 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2011.04009.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2010] [Accepted: 04/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS To investigate putative associations of reports of memory disorders and suspected drugs. METHODS We used the case/noncase method in the French PharmacoVigilance Database (FPVD). Cases were reports of memory loss in the FPVD between January 2000 and December 2009. Noncases were all other reports during the same period. To assess the association between memory impairment and drug intake, we calculated an odds ratio with its 95% confidence interval. RESULTS Among the 188,284 adverse drug reactions recorded, we identified 519 cases of memory loss. The sex ratio was 0.6 and the median age was 54 years (range 4-93). The maximal number of cases occurred between 40-49 and 50-59 years. Evolution was favourable in 63% of the cases. We found significant odds ratios for benzodiazepines (alprazolam, bromazepam, prazepam, clonazepam etc.), benzodiazepine-like hypnotics (zolpidem and zopiclone), antidepressants (fluoxetine, paroxetine and venlafaxine), analgesics (morphine, nefopam and tramadol), anticonvulsants (topiramate, pregabalin, levetiracetam etc.), antipsychotics (aripiprazole and lithium) and other drugs, such as trihexyphenidyl, ciclosporin and isotretinoin. CONCLUSIONS Our study confirmed an association between memory disorders and some drugs, such as benzodiazepines and anticonvulsants. However, other drugs, such as benzodiazepine-like hypnotics, newer anticonvulsants, serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants, isotretinoin and ciclosporin were significantly associated with memory disorders, although this was not described or poorly described in the literature. Taking account of the limits of this study in the FPVD (under-reporting, notoriety bias etc.), the case/noncase method allows assessment and detection of associations between exposure to drugs and a specific adverse drug reaction, such as memory disorders, and could thus generate signals and orientate us to further prospective studies to confirm such associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francois Chavant
- CHU de Poitiers, Service de Pharmacologie clinique et Vigilances, Centre Régional de PharmacoVigilance et de Renseignement sur les Médicaments, Poitiers, France.
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Kurita GP, Sjøgren P, Ekholm O, Kaasa S, Loge JH, Poviloniene I, Klepstad P. Prevalence and predictors of cognitive dysfunction in opioid-treated patients with cancer: a multinational study. J Clin Oncol 2011; 29:1297-303. [PMID: 21357785 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2010.32.6884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify prevalence and associated factors of cognitive dysfunction in opioid-treated patients with cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS EPOS (European Pharmacogenetic Opioid Study) is a prospective cross-sectional multicenter study in which adult patients with cancer who received treatment with opioids for moderate or severe pain for at least 3 days were included. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). MMSE scores were categorized into definite cognitive dysfunction (scores < 24), possible cognitive dysfunction (scores 24-26), and no cognitive dysfunction (scores > 26). Factors potentially associated with cognitive dysfunction were assessed. Associations between MMSE and explanatory variables were analyzed by ordinal logistic regression models. RESULTS We included 1,915 patients with cancer from 17 centers. MMSE scores less than 27 were observed in 32.9% of patients. Patients with lung cancer had higher odds (adjusted odds ratio, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.95) for having lower MMSE scores compared with patients with other cancer diagnoses. Patients receiving daily opioid doses of 400 mg or more (oral morphine equivalents) had 1.75 (95% CI, 1.25 to 2.46) times higher odds of having lower MMSE scores compared with those receiving daily doses less than 80 mg. Other risk factors for cognitive dysfunction were older age, low Karnofsky performance status (KPS), time since diagnosis (< 15 months), and absence of breakthrough pain (BTP). CONCLUSION One third of opioid-treated patients with cancer had possible or definite cognitive dysfunction. Lung cancer, daily opioid doses of 400 mg or more (oral morphine equivalents), older age, low KPS, shorter time since cancer diagnosis, and absence of BTP were predictors for cognitive dysfunction.
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Cherrier MM, Amory JK, Ersek M, Risler L, Shen DD. Comparative cognitive and subjective side effects of immediate-release oxycodone in healthy middle-aged and older adults. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2009; 10:1038-50. [PMID: 19729346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2009.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2008] [Revised: 03/23/2009] [Accepted: 03/25/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED This study measured the objective and subjective neurocognitive effects of a single 10-mg dose of immediate-release oxycodone in healthy, older (> 65 years), and middle-aged (35 to 55 years) adults who were not suffering from chronic or significant daily pain. Seventy-one participants completed 2 separate study days and were blind to medication condition (placebo, 10-mg oxycodone). Plasma oxycodone concentration peaked between 60 and 90 minutes postdose (P < .01) and pupil size, an indication of physiological effects of the medication, peaked at approximately 90 to 120 minutes postdose (P < .01). Significant declines in simple and sustained attention, working memory, and verbal memory were observed at 1 hour postdose compared to baseline for both age groups with a trend toward return to baseline by 5 hours postdose. For almost all cognitive measures, there were no medication by age-interaction effects, which indicates that the 2 age groups exhibited similar responses to the medication challenge. This study suggests that for healthy older adults who are not suffering from chronic pain, neurocognitive and pharmacodynamic changes in response to a 10-mg dose of immediate-release oxycodone are similar to those observed for middle-aged adults. PERSPECTIVE Study findings indicate that the metabolism, neurocognitive effects, and physical side effects of oral oxycodone are similar for healthy middle-aged and older adults. Therefore, clinicians should not avoid prescribing oral opioids to older adults based on the belief that older adults are at higher risk for side effects than younger adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique M Cherrier
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.
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Kohli S, Fisher SG, Tra Y, Adams MJ, Mapstone ME, Wesnes KA, Roscoe JA, Morrow GR. The effect of modafinil on cognitive function in breast cancer survivors. Cancer 2009; 115:2605-16. [PMID: 19309747 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.24287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The authors conducted a randomized clinical trial examining the effects of modafinil in reducing persistent fatigue in patients after treatment for cancer and performed secondary analyses to assess the effect of modafinil on cognitive function. METHODS Breast cancer patients who reported a score of >or=2 on the Brief Fatigue Inventory were enrolled in the study. In phase 1 (P1), patients received 200 mg modafinil open-label once daily for 4 weeks. In phase 2 (P2), patients with a positive response after P1 were randomized either to an additional 4 weeks of modafinil or to placebo. Tests of memory and attention selected from the Cognitive Drug Research (CDR) computerized cognitive assessment were performed at baseline (before modafinil) and after completing phases 1 and 2. The paired differences for each test score were subjected to a Wilcoxon signed rank test. RESULTS Of the 82 women who were enrolled, 76 completed P1, and 68 completed all assessments in the study. Modafinil had a significant effect on the Speed of Memory (P = .0073) and Quality of Episodic Memory (P < .0001) during P1 of the study. After randomization at Week 8, those patients who continued modafinil demonstrated significantly greater improvement in Speed of Memory (P = .029), Quality of Episodic Memory (P = .0151), and mean Continuity of Attention (P = .0101) relative to the group that was switched to placebo. CONCLUSIONS The authors found that modafinil improved cognitive performance in breast cancer survivors by enhancing some memory and attention skills. Although confirmation is needed, these findings suggest that modafinil may enhance quality of life in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadhna Kohli
- Department of Medicine and Radiation Oncology, James P. Wilmot Cancer Center, University of Rochester, Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA.
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Norman LR, Basso M, Kumar A, Malow R. Neuropsychological consequences of HIV and substance abuse: a literature review and implications for treatment and future research. CURRENT DRUG ABUSE REVIEWS 2009; 2:143-56. [PMID: 19630745 PMCID: PMC6167747 DOI: 10.2174/1874473710902020143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Neuropsychological dysfunction, ranging from mild cognitive symptoms to dementia has been a consistent part of the clinical picture of HIV/AIDS. However, advances in clinical management, particularly antiretroviral (ARV) treatment, have mitigated the neuropsychological effects of HIV and revised the pattern and nature of cognitive deficits, which are observed in HIV-infected individuals. The attendant improvements in mortality and morbidity have led to a need for programs and interventions that sustain healthy behavior and prevent a resurgence of HIV transmission risk. Psychiatric risk factors, particularly substance use, which often contribute to initial acquisition of HIV, still require attention. These risk factors may also exacerbate neuropsychological dysfunction and compromise adherence to prevention recommendations and treatment. Specifically, a more complete understanding of the effects of substance abuse on the progression of HIV related cognitive decline can inform evaluation and management of HIV seropositives with concurrent substance use disorders. This review provides an overview of the neuropsychology of HIV and substance abuse and the extant research that has examined the effects of both HIV disease and substance use on neuropsychological functioning and implications for treatment and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa R Norman
- AIDS Research Program, Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, PR 00732.
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Zwisler ST, Enggaard TP, Noehr-Jensen L, Pedersen RS, Mikkelsen S, Nielsen F, Brosen K, Sindrup SH. The hypoalgesic effect of oxycodone in human experimental pain models in relation to the CYP2D6 oxidation polymorphism. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2009; 104:335-44. [PMID: 19281600 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2009.00378.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Oxycodone is O-demethylated by CYP2D6 to oxymorphone which is a potent micro-receptor agonist. The CYP2D6 oxidation polymorphism divides the Caucasian population in two phenotypes: approximately 8% with no enzyme activity, poor metabolizers (PM) and the remainder with preserved CYP2D6 activity, extensive metabolizers (EM). The objective of the study was to determine if the analgesic effect of oxycodone in human experimental pain depends on its metabolism to oxymorphone. The analgesic effect of oxycodone was evaluated in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, crossover experiment including 33 (16 EM and 17 PM) healthy volunteers. Pain tests were performed before and 1, 2, 3 and 4 hr after medication and included pain detection and tolerance thresholds to single electrical sural nerve stimulation, pain summation threshold to repetitive electrical sural nerve stimulation and the cold pressor test with rating of discomfort and pain-time area under curve (AUC(0-2 min.)). For single sural nerve stimulation, there was a less pronounced increase in thresholds on oxycodone in pain detection (9% vs. 20%, P = 0.02, a difference of 11%, CI: 2%-20%) and pain tolerance thresholds (15% vs. 26%, P = 0.037, a difference of 10%, CI: 1%-20%) for PM compared with EM. In the cold pressor test, there was less reduction in pain AUC on oxycodone for PM compared with EM (14% vs. 26%, P = 0.012, a difference of 12%, CI: 3%-22%). The plasma oxymorphone/oxycodone ratio was significantly lower in PM compared with EM (P < 0.001). Oxycodone analgesia seems to depend both on oxycodone itself and its metabolite oxymorphone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stine T Zwisler
- Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
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Otmani S, Demazières A, Staner C, Jacob N, Nir T, Zisapel N, Staner L. Effects of prolonged-release melatonin, zolpidem, and their combination on psychomotor functions, memory recall, and driving skills in healthy middle aged and elderly volunteers. Hum Psychopharmacol 2008; 23:693-705. [PMID: 18763235 DOI: 10.1002/hup.980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melatonin is an important regulator of the sleep-wake cycle. A prolonged-release formulation of melatonin (PR-M) that essentially mimics the profile of the endogenous production of the hormone is effective in the treatment of insomnia in patients aged 55 years and older. Because hypnotics result in impairments of various cognitive skills, it is important to examine the cognitive effects associated with the use of PR-M. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS The effects of therapeutic oral doses of PR-M (2 mg), zolpidem (10 mg) and their combination administered at bedtime on cognitive functions in healthy subjects aged 55 years and older (12 males + 4 females, age 59.4 +/- 3.2 years) were assessed in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and four-way crossover study. Psychomotor functions, memory recall, and driving skills were assessed at 1 and 4 h following administration and the next morning. RESULTS Compared to placebo, PR-M alone did not impaired performances on any cognitive tasks. Zolpidem significantly impaired psychomotor and driving performance 1 h and 4 h post-dosing, and early memory recall; these impairment were exacerbated with PR-M co-administration. No effects on next morning psychomotor or driving performance were observed except that the decline in memory recall after zolpidem was more pronounced in the next day. No pharmacokinetic interactions were found. CONCLUSIONS This study extends previous researches showing impairment of cognitive functions by zolpidem within 5 h post-administration. Further, PR-M use was not found associated with impairment of psychomotor functions, memory recall, and driving skills, and point to a pharmacodynamic interaction between melatonin and GABA-A modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Otmani
- FORENAP-Institute for Research in Neurosciences, Rouffach, France.
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Sensorimotor gating and attentional set-shifting are improved by the mu-opioid receptor agonist morphine in healthy human volunteers. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2008; 11:655-69. [PMID: 18272020 DOI: 10.1017/s1461145707008322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the acoustic startle response (ASR) has been established as an operational measure of sensorimotor gating. Animal and human studies have shown that PPI can be modulated by dopaminergic, serotonergic, and glutamatergic drugs and consequently it was proposed that impaired sensorimotor gating in schizophrenia parallels a central abnormality within the corresponding neurotransmitter systems. Recent animal studies suggest that the opioid system may also play a role in the modulation of sensorimotor gating. Thus, the present study investigated the influence of the mu-opioid receptor agonist morphine on PPI in healthy human volunteers. Eighteen male, non-smoking healthy volunteers each received placebo or 10 mg morphine sulphate (p.o.) at a 2-wk interval in a double-blind, randomized, and counterbalanced order. PPI was measured 75 min after drug/placebo intake. The effects of morphine on mood were measured by the Adjective Mood Rating Scale and side-effects were assessed by the List of Complaints. Additionally, we administered a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery consisting of tests of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery and the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test. Morphine significantly increased PPI without affecting startle reactivity or habituation. Furthermore, morphine selectively improved the error rate in an attentional set-shifting task but did not influence vigilance, memory, or executive functions. These results imply that the opioid system is involved in the modulation of PPI and attentional set-shifting in humans and they raise the question whether the opioid system plays a crucial role also in the regulation of PPI and attentional set-shifting in schizophrenia.
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Friswell J, Phillips C, Holding J, Morgan CJA, Brandner B, Curran HV. Acute effects of opioids on memory functions of healthy men and women. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2008; 198:243-50. [PMID: 18379759 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-008-1123-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2007] [Accepted: 02/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although several psychotropic drugs can acutely induce an anterograde impairment of memory which impedes new learning, they do not produce retrograde impairments, reducing memory for information learned prior to the drug being administered. However, both anterograde and retrograde memory impairments have been reported following an acute dose of morphine in palliative care patients (Kamboj et al., Pain 117:388-395, 2005). OBJECTIVE The present study was designed to determine: (1) whether similar amnestic effects would be found after a single oral dose of either morphine or oxycodone in healthy volunteers, (2) how generalisable such effects were across a broader range of memory tasks and (3) whether men and women showed a differential response. MATERIALS AND METHODS A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design was used with 18 participants (nine men, nine women) who were administered 10 mg morphine, 5 mg oxycodone and placebo on three separate test days. RESULTS On a working memory task, subtle impairments were found in women following both opioids whilst in men only following morphine. On an episodic memory task, women made significantly more source attribution errors after oxycodone and men made more after placebo. Most gender differences were weight related and a range of other measures showed no drug-induced impairments. CONCLUSION We conclude that these standard doses of opioids have only marginal effects on memory. If these findings can be extrapolated to patients with pain, then clinicians can feel confident in prescribing them on an outpatient basis without impacting on patients' daily functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Friswell
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Clinical Health Psychology, University College London, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Lundahl J, Staner L, Staner C, Loft H, Deacon S. Short-term treatment with gaboxadol improves sleep maintenance and enhances slow wave sleep in adult patients with primary insomnia. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2007; 195:139-46. [PMID: 17653697 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-007-0866-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2007] [Accepted: 06/19/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Gaboxadol is a selective extrasynaptic GABA(A) agonist, previously in development for the treatment of insomniac patients. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the acute efficacy and safety of gaboxadol in primary insomnia (PI). METHODS This was a randomised, double-blind, four-way crossover, polysomnograph study comparing gaboxadol 10 and 20 mg (GBX20) to placebo in 40 adults with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition, criteria for PI. Zolpidem 10 mg was used as an active reference. Treatment was administered on two consecutive nights in each treatment session. Next-day residual effects were evaluated 2 and 9 h after lights on. RESULTS Efficacy analysis included the per-protocol population (n = 38) from night 2. GBX20 reduced wake after sleep onset (p < 0.01). Both doses of gaboxadol, but not zolpidem, reduced the number of night awakenings (p < 0.001). GBX20 and zolpidem increased total sleep time (p < 0.05). Neither dose of gaboxadol nor zolpidem significantly reduced sleep onset latency, although a trend was seen for zolpidem. Gaboxadol enhanced slow wave sleep (SWS) dose-dependently (gaboxadol 10 mg: p < 0.01, GBX20: p < 0.001). Patients reported improved sleep quality following GBX20 (p < 0.05). Both doses of gaboxadol were generally well tolerated with almost exclusively mild to moderately severe adverse events (AEs). More frequent and severe AEs followed GBX20. No serious AEs were reported. No drug treatment was associated with next-day residual effects. CONCLUSION Acute administration of gaboxadol improves sleep maintenance and enhances SWS in a dose-dependent manner in adult patients with PI. Gaboxadol was not associated with next-day residual effects. Gaboxadol was generally well tolerated, although gaboxadol showed a dose-dependent increase in incidence and severity of AEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lundahl
- Department of Neurology, H Lundbeck A/S, International Clinical Research, Ottiliavej 7-9, 2500, Valby, Denmark.
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Stevens A, Peschk I, Schwarz J. Implicit learning, executive function and hedonic activity in chronic polydrug abusers, currently abstinent polydrug abusers and controls. Addiction 2007; 102:937-46. [PMID: 17523989 DOI: 10.1111/j.1360-0443.2007.01823.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The study seeks to evaluate impairments of implicit learning and executive function in chronic polydrug abusers. It was hypothesized that implicit learning and executive function correlate with anhedonia. DESIGN A cross-sectional group comparison. SETTINGS Department of Psychiatry, University of Tübingen, Germany. Participants A total of 25 male polydrug abusers with opiate dependence, n = 26 polydrug abusers abstinent for more than 3 months and n = 26 non-drug-using healthy males. SETTING Abstinent polydrug abusers were recruited from a community treatment centre, current polydrug abusers from local drug counselling services and controls through advertisements. MEASUREMENTS A psychological battery assessing implicit learning (serial reaction-time task), various executive functions (latent inhibition, delayed matching-to-sample, Trail Making Test, acquisition and modification of conditioned responses, figural reasoning) and verbal logic memory was administered. Hedonic thoughts and activities as well as depressive symptoms were assessed through questionnaires. FINDINGS In chronic polydrug abusers, there were moderate impairments of implicit learning, of acquisition, reversal and extinction of conditioned responses, of latent inhibition as well as anhedonia, while working memory was spared. In the abstinent group, cognitive performance was normal except for latent inhibition and more anhedonia and depression than in controls. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that current polydrug abusers suffer from impairment of many cognitive functions and from anhedonia. During abstinence, there is near normal cognitive function but still anhedonia. Anhedonia was correlated with implicit learning but not with executive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Stevens
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Abstract
Several different systems govern human memory, and different drugs may act specifically on one or more of them. The central nervous system in the elderly is particularly sensitive to drugs, and an iatrogenic cause must be sought for all recent and/or sudden alterations in memory functions. In the case of recent alterations in memory, all nonessential drugs, especially psychotropic agents; should be withdrawn or reduced. Elderly persons, especially those with dementia, are at risk because of the frequent and substantial effects of drugs on their memory: the benefit-risk ratio must be evaluated regularly and essential treatments maintained.
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Norman LR, Kumar A. Neuropscyhological Complications of HIV Disease and Substances of Abuse. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2006; 2:67-73. [PMID: 27065366 PMCID: PMC4824002 DOI: 10.3844/ajidsp.2006.67.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade, it has become increasingly apparent that neuropsychological deficits and impairments are associated with HIV infection. Given that antiretroviral therapies have extended the life expectancy of HIV-infected persons, it becomes critical to focus on the physical and mental health of these patients. Understanding the neuropsychology of HIV disease can provide insight into improving mental health, functional capacity and overall quality of life for persons living with HIV/AIDS. Furthermore, clinicians may be better able to assist patients to manage their symptoms, thereby increasing the number of patients who are able to successfully maintain difficult treatment schedules. In addition, it is equally important to understand the potentially exacerbating effects of various factors. One such factor is substance abuse, which has been associated with various neuropsychological impairments, irrespective of the substance of abuse. Therefore, a more complete understanding of the effects of substance abuse on the progression of impaired cognitive processes and functioning can allow for an enhanced evaluation and management of those patients who live with HIV disease and who suffer from substance abuse disorders. As such, the present paper provides an overview of the neuropsychology of HIV and substance abuse, as well as of the available research that has examined the potential interaction effects between HIV disease and substance abuse. The implications of the findings as well as directions for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa R. Norman
- AIDS Research Program, Department of Microbiology Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, PR 00732
| | - Anil Kumar
- AIDS Research Program, Department of Microbiology Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, PR 00732
- Laboratory of Viral Immunology, Department of Microbiology Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, PR 00732
- Division of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri, Kansas City, MO 64108
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Kelly E, Darke S, Ross J. A review of drug use and driving: epidemiology, impairment, risk factors and risk perceptions. Drug Alcohol Rev 2004; 23:319-44. [PMID: 15370012 DOI: 10.1080/09595230412331289482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 245] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The existing literature on the prevalence of drug driving, the effects of drugs on driving performance, risk factors and risk perceptions associated with drug driving was reviewed. The 12-month prevalence of drug driving among the general population is approximately 4%. Drugs are detected commonly among those involved in motor vehicle accidents, with studies reporting up to 25% of accident-involved drivers positive for drugs. Cannabis is generally the most common drug detected in accident-involved drivers, followed by benzodiazepines, cocaine, amphetamines and opioids. Polydrug use is common among accident-involved drivers. Studies of impairment indicate an undeniable association between alcohol and driving impairment. There is also evidence that cannabis and benzodiazepines increase accident risk. The most equivocal evidence surrounds opioids and stimulants. It is apparent that drugs in combination with alcohol, and multiple drugs, present an even greater risk. Demographically, young males are over-represented among drug drivers. Although there is an association between alcohol use problems and drink driving, it is unclear whether such an association exists between drug use problems and drug driving. Evidence surrounding psychosocial factors and driving behaviour is also equivocal at this stage. While most drivers perceive drug driving to be dangerous and unacceptable, there is less concern about impaired driving among drug drivers and drink drivers than from those who have not engaged in impaired driving. Risk perceptions differ according to drug type, with certain drugs (e.g. cannabis) seen as producing less impairment than others (e.g. alcohol). It is concluded that drug driving is a significant problem, both in terms of a general public health issue and as a specific concern for drug users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Kelly
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Australia.
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Soo-ampon S, Wongwitdecha N, Plasen S, Hindmarch I, Boyle J. Effects of word frequency on recall memory following lorazepam, alcohol, and lorazepam alcohol interaction in healthy volunteers. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2004; 176:420-5. [PMID: 15118806 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-004-1888-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2004] [Accepted: 03/15/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Free recall of words has been extensively used in psychopharmacology to assess the effects of CNS-active drugs on memory functions. However, there is a relative lack of information on the impact of word frequency on the subsequent recall of words following the administration of psychoactive drugs. The present double-blind, placebo-controlled, repeated-measures experiment used lorazepam and alcohol to test the effects of word frequency on immediate and delayed word recall in 24 healthy volunteers. One half of the words contained in the lists had a high frequency (HF) of occurrence and the remainder were of low frequency (LF). The results showed that LF words were more sensitive to memory impairment than HF words. However, the more accurate recall of HF words (with respect to LF words) was eliminated when a combination of lorazepam with alcohol was administered. These findings indicate that word frequency has a significant impact on memory and, as such, is a factor to be taken into account when using memory recall tasks to assess the effects of psychoactive drugs on memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sompop Soo-ampon
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama VI Road, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
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Abstract
Successful opioid therapy often depends on achieving a balance between analgesic effectiveness and side effects. The risk of opioid-induced cognitive impairment often hinders clinicians and patients from initiating or optimizing opioid therapy. Despite subjective experiences of mental dullness and sedation, objective tests of cognitive functioning do not always demonstrate marked changes following opioid administration. To guide clinical practice, as well as patient and family teaching, pain management nurses should be familiar with literature regarding this topic. The purpose of this article is to review the empiric literature on opioids and cognitive functioning, including the relationships among pain, cognition, delirium, and opioids. In general, research reflects minimal to no significant impairments in cognitive functioning. If impairment does occur, it is most often associated with parenteral opioids administered to opioid-naive individuals. Some evidence suggests that opioids may actually enhance cognitive function and decrease delirium in some patient populations. This article describes this research and explores the clinical implications of the research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Ersek
- Pain Research Department, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98122, USA.
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Zacny JP, Goldman RE. Characterizing the subjective, psychomotor, and physiological effects of oral propoxyphene in non-drug-abusing volunteers. Drug Alcohol Depend 2004; 73:133-40. [PMID: 14725952 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2003.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The subjective, psychomotor, and physiological effects of a widely prescribed prescription opioid, propoxyphene, have not been studied in a population of non-drug-abusing people. The drug also has potential for abuse and it was of interest in the present study to determine if the drug had any abuse liability-related subjective effects in this population. METHODS Eighteen volunteers participated in a crossover, randomized, double-blind study in which they received, all p.o., placebo; 50 mg propoxyphene napsylate; 100 mg propoxyphene napsylate; 200 mg propoxyphene napsylate; 40 mg morphine sulfate; and 2 mg lorazepam. Measures were assessed before and for 300 min after drug administration. RESULTS Both morphine and lorazepam produced subjective effects. There were no statistically significant subjective effects obtained with any dose of propoxyphene in the group as a whole, but approximately 30-50% of the subjects did appear to experience subjective effects from the drug. Drug liking was not consistently observed in this subset. Propoxyphene, unlike lorazepam, did not impair psychomotor or cognitive performance. Both propoxyphene and morphine produced miosis. CONCLUSIONS There was a lack of statistically significant subjective effects of propoxyphene in the group as a whole, including a propoxyphene dose that was twice as high as the typical clinically-prescribed dose of 100 mg. However, there were some subjects who did report effects, consistent with the notion that patients differ in their sensitivity to opioid effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P Zacny
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, The Pritzker School of Medicine, The University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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Bain JN, Prendergast MA, Terry AV, Arneric SP, Smith MA, Buccafusco JJ. Enhanced attention in rhesus monkeys as a common factor for the cognitive effects of drugs with abuse potential. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2003; 169:150-60. [PMID: 12768267 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-003-1483-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2002] [Accepted: 03/14/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE One of the common neurochemical features of many drugs of abuse is their ability to directly or indirectly enhance dopaminergic activity in the brain, particularly within the ventral tegmental-nucleus accumbens pathway. Dopaminergic pathways in the frontal and limbic cortex also may be targets for these agents, where pharmacological effects could result in heightened attention and/or support self-administration behavior. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to determine whether drugs from differing pharmacological classes that exhibit abuse potential would share the ability to counter distractability in the delayed matching task. METHODS Well trained mature macaques performed a computer-assisted delayed matching-to-sample task which included trials associated with three delay intervals and randomly interspersed task-relevant distractors. Drug regimens included four to five doses and subjects were tested no more than twice per week. RESULTS All but one of the six compounds (tomoxetine), on average, increased task accuracy for either non-distractor or distractor trials. It was evident that for several compounds, doses required to improve accuracy for non-distractor trials were routinely greater than the doses required to improve accuracy for distractor trials. Data for the individualized Best dose (based upon the subject's optimal level of accuracy during distractor trials) revealed statistically significant distractor-related improvements in task accuracy for the same five compounds. The relative efficacy for reversing distractor-induced decrements in task accuracy was estimated by the level of improvement with respect to baseline: nomifensine (31%)>nicotine (22%) approximately morphine (19%) approximately caffeine (19%) approximately methylphenidate (22%) >tomoxetine (9%). Tomoxetine (noradrenergic preferring) was the only compound that did not produce a significant improvement in accuracy. CONCLUSIONS These results provide pharmacological support for the concept that attentional mechanisms may play an important role in the "environmental" associative aspects of drug seeking behavior, and as such they may provide the basis for treatment strategies aimed at preventing relapse in detoxified addicts.
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Affiliation(s)
- John N Bain
- Alzheimer's Research Center, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912-2300, USA
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Tassain V, Attal N, Fletcher D, Brasseur L, Dégieux P, Chauvin M, Bouhassira D. Long term effects of oral sustained release morphine on neuropsychological performance in patients with chronic non-cancer pain. Pain 2003; 104:389-400. [PMID: 12855350 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3959(03)00047-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Morphine is increasingly used in patients with chronic non-cancer pain, but a major concern associated with chronic use relates to possible cognitive side-effects. The aim of this long-term prospective study was to evaluate the cognitive impact of oral sustained release morphine in patients with non-cancer pain. A battery of neuropsychological tests to explore attention, psychomotor speed and memory was administered. The effects of morphine on pain, quality of life, mood, subjective memory impairment and side-effects were also investigated. Evaluations were performed at baseline in patients free from opioids and then after 3, 6 and 12 months. Twenty-eight patients were included: 18 received oral sustained morphine (range 40-140 mg/day), ten patients stopped morphine prematurely because of side-effects or insufficient pain relief and were followed as a control group. There was no impairment of any neuropsychological variable over time in the morphine treated patients in comparison with the control group. Two measures of information processing speed - the Stroop interference score and the digit symbol test were improved at 6 and 12 months and there were significant correlations with the pain relief and improvement of mood. Self-reported memory impairment improved notably in responders to morphine. Morphine induced persisting effects on pain, and to a lesser extent on quality of life and mood. The visual analog scale score for side-effects increased at 12 months and essentially consisted of gastrointestinal disorders. This study demonstrates that 12 months treatment with oral morphine does not disrupt cognitive functioning in patients with chronic non-cancer pain and instead results in moderate improvement of some aspects of cognitive functioning, as a consequence of the pain relief and concomitant improvement of well-being and mood.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Tassain
- Centre d'Evaluation et de Traitement de la Douleur, 9, Avenue Charles de Gaulle, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, 92 100 Boulogne, France
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de Visser SJ, van der Post JP, de Waal PP, Cornet F, Cohen AF, van Gerven JMA. Biomarkers for the effects of benzodiazepines in healthy volunteers. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2003; 55:39-50. [PMID: 12534639 PMCID: PMC1884188 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2125.2002.t01-10-01714.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies of novel centrally acting drugs in healthy volunteers are traditionally concerned with kinetics and tolerability, but useful information may also be obtained from biomarkers of clinical endpoints. A useful biomarker should meet the following requirements: a consistent response across studies and drugs; a clear response of the biomarker to a therapeutic dose; a dose-response relationship; a plausible relationship between biomarker, pharmacology and pathogenesis. In the current review, all individual tests found in studies of benzodiazepine agonists registered for anxiety in healthy volunteers since 1966 were progressively evaluated for compliance with these requirements. A MedLine search yielded 56 different studies, investigating the effects of 16 different benzodiazepines on 73 different (variants of ) neuropsychological tests, which could be clustered into seven neuropsychological domains. Subjective and objective measures of alertness were most sensitive to benzodiazepines. The most consistent effects were observed on saccadic peak velocity (SPV) and visual analogue scores ( VAS) of alertness, where 100% and 79% of all studies respectively showed statistically significant effects. A dose-response relationship could be constructed for temazepam and SPV, which was used to determine dose equivalencies relative to temazepam, for seven different benzodiazepines. These dose equivalencies correlated with the lowest recommended daily maintenance dose (r2 = 0.737, P < 0.05). This relationship between SPV reduction and clinical efficacy could reflect the clinical practice of aiming for maximum tolerated levels, or it could represent a common basis behind SPV reduction and anxiolytic activity for benzodiazepines (probably sedation). The number of tests used in human psychopharmacology appears to be excessive and their sensitivity and reproducibility low.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J de Visser
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 10, 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Dick B, Eccleston C, Crombez G. Attentional functioning in fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and musculoskeletal pain patients. ARTHRITIS AND RHEUMATISM 2002; 47:639-44. [PMID: 12522838 DOI: 10.1002/art.10800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate whether chronic pain patients have deficits in attentional functioning compared with pain-free controls, and whether fibromyalgia patients have larger deficits in attentional functioning compared with rheumatoid arthritis and musculoskeletal pain patients. METHODS Sixty patients (20 in each of 3 patient groups) and 20 pain-free controls completed measures assessing pain intensity, mood, pain-related disability, somatic awareness, and catastrophic thinking about pain. Attentional functioning was assessed using an age-standardized, ecologically valid test battery. Analyses were made of between-group differences. RESULTS Sixty percent of patients had at least one score in the clinical range of neuropsychological impairment, independent of demography and mood. Fibromyalgia patients were more anxious and somatically aware than rheumatoid arthritis or musculoskeletal pain patients, but did not show larger attentional deficits than other patient groups. CONCLUSION All 3 groups of chronic pain patients, regardless of diagnosis, had impaired cognitive functioning on an ecologically sensitive neuropsychological test of everyday attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Dick
- Dalhousie University/IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Chapman SL, Byas-Smith MG, Reed BA. Effects of intermediate- and long-term use of opioids on cognition in patients with chronic pain. Clin J Pain 2002; 18:S83-90. [PMID: 12479258 DOI: 10.1097/00002508-200207001-00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The authors review research on the intermediate- and long-term effects of taking opioid medication on cognitive functioning in patients with chronic cancer and noncancer pain. Opioids seem to be more likely to worsen cognitive performance during the first few days of use and during the first few hours after a given dose, particularly on timed performance in psychomotor tasks. Results have been inconsistent regarding what decrements in cognitive performance are observed when patients with chronic pain who have been using opioids for more than three days are compared with healthy volunteers. Relatively few differences have been found when cognitive performance in these patients is compared with their performance before taking opioids, or with the performance of a comparable pain population not taking opioids. Major unresolved questions remain regarding such important issues as effects of different types of opioids, dose effects, interactions with other medications, and subject variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley L Chapman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
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Lawlor PG. The panorama of opioid-related cognitive dysfunction in patients with cancer: a critical literature appraisal. Cancer 2002; 94:1836-53. [PMID: 11920548 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.10389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioids have an essential role in the management of pain in cancer patients, particularly those with advanced disease. Cognitive dysfunction is a recognized complication of opioid use. However, misconceptions and controversy surround the nature and prevalence of its occurrence. A projected increase in the aging cancer population highlights the need for a better understanding of this phenomenon. METHODS A critical appraisal of the literature evidence in relation to the pattern, pathophysiology, assessment, impact, and management of cognitive dysfunction due to opioid use in cancer pain management is given. RESULTS Studies in cancer patients with less advanced disease reveal subtle evidence of cognitive impairment, largely related to initial dosing or dose increases. In advanced cancer, opioid-induced cognitive dysfunction usually occurs in the form of delirium, a multifactorial syndrome. The presence of both cognitive impairment and delirium frequently is misdiagnosed or missed. Potential risk factors include neuropathic and incidental pain, opioid tolerance, somatization of psychologic distress, and a history of drug or alcohol abuse. Elevation of opioid metabolites with renal impairment may contribute to cognitive dysfunction. Recognition of opioid-related cognitive dysfunction is improved by objective screening. Successful management requires either dose reduction or a change of opioid, in addition to addressing other reversible precipitants such as dehydration or volume depletion. CONCLUSIONS Opioid-related cognitive dysfunction tends to be subtle in the earlier stages of cancer, whereas delirium, a more florid form with behavioral disturbance is likely to be present in the advanced cancer population. In patients with advanced disease, an optimal management approach requires careful clinical assessment, identification of risk factors, objective monitoring of cognition, maintenance of adequate hydration, and either dose reduction or switching to a different opioid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter G Lawlor
- Edmonton Palliative Care Program and Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Makin
- Pain Relief Foundation's Pain Research Institute, Marie Curie Centre Liverpool, Speke Road, Woolton L25 8QA, UK
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