Lipid Profile Comparison between Opium Addicts and Non-Addicts

Background: This study was done to test the notion that opium can reduce serum lipids and decrease the risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD) in opium addicts; we made a comparison between the lipid profiles of opium addicts and non-addicts. Methods: In this study, we compared 100 male opium addicts (according to the ICD-10 criteria) who had referred to addiction treatment centers with 75 healthy male non-addicts. The subjects filled out our research questionnaire and had their fasting serum lipid profile (total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, high density lipoprotein, and triglyceride) evaluated. Results: Among those with a body mass index (BMI) between 18 and 25, the total cholesterol level in the opium addicts was less than that in the control group; there was, however, no difference in terms of LDL, HDL, and TG between the case and control groups. There was a significant difference in BMI between the two groups, which requires further studies to investigate the reason. Conclusion: Opium does not seem to have any impact on triglyceride, low density lipoprotein, and high density lipoprotein. Despite the lower total cholesterol levels in opium addicts (as a known side effect of opium on different body systems), it is not advisable that opium and its extracts be recommended to decrease the risk of IHD.