Sex hormone suppression by intrathecal opioids: a prospective study

Lindy J Roberts1, Phillip M Finch, Peter T Pullan

  • 1Western Australian Pain Management Centre, Department of Anesthesia, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Western Australia, Australia. lindyr@cyllene.uwa.edu.au

Summary

Intrathecal opioids significantly lower testosterone levels in males with chronic pain, causing hypogonadism. Patients require monitoring and potential testosterone replacement therapy for sexual function and bone health.