[Rapid opiate detoxification under anesthesia (RODA)]

Rapid Opiate Detoxification under Anesthesia (RODA) involves the use of opiate antagonists combined with anesthesia and pharmacotherapy to reduce withdrawal symptoms. The aim of our study was to measure the plasma concentrations of heroin metabolites and methadone during anesthesia and patient stay at the hospital in order to assess the amount of active substances at each protocol step. Plasma concentrations of antagonists were also quantified and compared to the recommended target values. Blood samples were drawn in 10 patients undergoing RODA at different times of the procedure (during anesthesia, in post-anesthesia care unit and in psychiatry unit). The plasma concentrations of heroin metabolites, methadone and antagonists were measured using a previously described method. Heroin active metabolites were no longer detected in the patient blood when helshe left the hospital; by contrast, methadone was still present at significant concentrations 3 days after the beginning of the detoxification procedure. Naltrexone analysis allowed us to adjust doses to insure opiate receptor blockade during acute withdrawal, which is a critical period.