Opioids in the immune system: from experimental studies to clinical practice
1Anesthesia Department, Pain Service, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santafé de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia.
Introduction:
Opioids interact with both innate and adaptive immune systems and have direct effects on opioid receptors located on immune cells. Research on this topic has provided evidence of the opioid influence on the immune response associated with surgical stress. The immunological effects of opioids are currently being investigated, particularly whether they influence the outcome of surgery or the underlying disease regarding important aspects like infection or cancer progression. This review addresses background research related to the influence of the opioid receptor on the immune system, the immunosuppressive effect associated with major opioids during the perioperative period, and their clinical relevance. The objective of the study was to review the effects of opioids on the immune system.
Related Concept Videos
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Opioid Receptors: Overview
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners
What is the Immune System?
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Opioids as Antidiarrheal Agents
Opioids, widely used antidiarrheal agents, mitigate diarrhea by slowing down...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies


