The effeminizing effect of opioids- A Review

Antony T, Alzaharani SY and El

Abstract

Opioids are pivotal therapeutics in management of escalated chronic pain (moderate-severe). The increased prescription and usage duration of opioids in last two decades shed the light on opioid-induced endocrinopathy. Opioid-induced hypogonadism (OHG) results upon long-term opioid therapy. Clinically, patients with OHG are presented mainly by sexual dysfunction and infertility. Opioid clinical use in pain therapy is indispensable. However, the resultant sexual endocrinopathy cannot be overlooked and hence replacement hormonal therapy and patient continual follow-up are important measures to ensure therapeutic compliance and secure patient’s satisfaction of a good life quality.