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Evaluating the Effect of Chronic and Continuous Use of Methadone on the Glomerular Filtration Rate of Patients Receiving Oral Methadone (Syrup) Publisher



Chegini VG1 ; Kazemifar AM2 ; Tavakolian AE3 ; Karimi AG4 ; Sofi AJP3 ; Ipchian D3 ; Kamali S3 ; Varkiani ME1 ; Yazdi Z5
Authors
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Authors Affiliations
  1. 1. Department of Nephrology, Velayat Hospital, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Qazvin, Iran
  2. 2. Professor of Clinical Toxicology and Forensic Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Qazvin, Iran
  3. 3. Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Qazvin, Iran
  4. 4. Preclinical Core, Cardiovascular Imaging Core Facility, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Tehran, Iran
  5. 5. Metabolic Disease Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Qazvin, Iran

Source: Frontiers in Medicine Published:2024


Abstract

Introduction: This study systematically examines the effects of chronic oral methadone use on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in patients participating in methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) in Qazvin City, Iran. Methadone, a synthetic μ-opioid receptor agonist, is predominantly utilized for the management of opioid dependence and pain relief; however, there is growing concern regarding its potential nephrotoxic effects. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was executed involving 150 participants who had been on methadone syrup for a minimum duration of 2 years. Comprehensive data pertaining to demographic variables, methadone dosage, and serum creatinine levels were meticulously gathered at baseline, as well as at 3 and 6 months. GFR was calculated utilizing the Cockcroft-Gault formula. Results: The results demonstrate that, while the mean GFR values remained within the normal range, a significant correlation was observed between methadone dosage and a reduction in GFR; specifically, higher dosages were associated with lower GFR values. In contrast, the duration of methadone use did not significantly affect GFR. Conclusion: These findings indicate that, although methadone dosage may influence renal function, long-term methadone therapy does not inherently exacerbate the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in this population. This underscores the critical need for diligent monitoring of methadone dosages to mitigate the risk of potential renal impairment and highlights the importance of further research into the long-term implications of methadone on renal health. Copyright © 2024 Chegini, Kazemifar, Tavakolian, Karimi, Sofi, Ipchian, Kamali, Varkiani and Yazdi.
Related Docs
1. Nephrotoxicity of Methadone: A Systematic Review, SpringerPlus (2016)
Experts (# of related papers)
Mohammad Abdollahi (1)