Effects of Opioids and Psychoactive Drugs on Blood Lipid and Glucose Indices; A Systematic Review of Population-Based Evidences

Abstract

Background: Based on a common belief among people, narcotic substances and psychoactive drugs may help to reduce blood glucose and lipid profile leading to reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. This hypothesis has been verified in several studies; however, there is no conclusive agreement on the reducing effects of opium and other opioid derivatives on blood glucose and lipids. In the present review, we collected all related literature to evaluate the effects of opioids and psychoactive drugs abuse in altering blood glucose and lipid profile, and discuss their longterm effects. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in January 2021 using “lipid profile”, “glucose”, and “opium” including all their equivalents, main derivatives and similar terms. The data were then extracted and reported qualitatively. Results: Overall, 46 articles with 37407 participants were included after several step–by-step procedures of article selection. Findings of this study suggested that opioids may reduce blood glucose and low-density lipoproteins, while increasing triglyceride. However, these effects are temporary, and long-term substance abuse exacerbates glucose and lipid-associated diseases such as diabetes and atherosclerosis. Conclusion: Although there are many confounding factors that may affect the results of the included literature; however, based on the findings of these studies, the long-term beneficial effects of opioids on lipid profile and blood glucose cannot be accepted.