Rapid cortical hemoglobin deoxygenation after heroin and methadone injection in humans: a preliminary report

The short-term effects of intravenous opioids (heroin 20-300 mg, methadone 30-180 mg) on cortical hemoglobin oxygenation were examined by near infrare d spectroscopy in ten opioid-dependent subjects and were compared with the effects of saline in ten age-matched normal controls. Heroin and methadone produced a rapid and dramatic decrease in cortical hemoglobin oxygenation. Saline had no effects. Opioid-induced acute deoxygenation of cortical hemog lobin is most likely associated with respiratory depression. Thorough medic al monitoring is strongly recommended in intravenous opioid maintenance tre atments. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.