Changes in the hemodynamic and thyroid functions of rats treated by opium

Opioids are perhaps the most efficacious analgesic agents influencing a large number of body functions. The objective of this study is to observe changes in hemodynamic, electrolytes, and kidney and thyroid functions of opium treatment in rats. Thirty male rats were randomly distributed into three groups. Group 1 regarded as control, while in group 2 and 3, the animals were daily injected intraperitoneally with opium for seven successive days. Intraperitoneal opium injection caused a dose-deponent increase in serum calcium (Ca )and phosphate (PO4 ) levels, whereas the nitric oxide (NO), triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels were significantly decreased in both doses. The significant decrease in serum (NO )level and increase serum (Ca) and (PO4 ) levels resulted in significant elevation of systolic blood pressure (SBP) accompanied by elevation of serum bilirubin and urea. Our finding suggests that opium causes hypertension, kidney and thyroid function abnormalities mostly in concentration dependent manner.