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The cognitive effects of opioids in cancer: a systematic review
Geana Paula Kurita1, Lena Lundorff, Cibele Andrucioli de Mattos Pimenta
1Multidisciplinary Pain Centre, Dept. 7612, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark. geana@rh.regionh.dk
Objective And Methods:
In order to better understand the effects of opioids on the cognitive function in cancer pain patients, a literature search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, PsycInfo, CINAHL and Lilacs databases. Ten controlled trials were selected and classified according to the study design, the level of evidence, and opioid regimen.
Result:
Six studies reported association between poor cognitive performance (reaction time, attention, balance, and memory) and opioid use.
Conclusion:
These cognitive deficits were captured with neuropsychological tests; however, their clinical relevance is still uncertain.
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