Effect on plasma testostrone level by heroin addiction and its restoration by withdrawal

ABSTRACT

Heroin is considered to be the most addictive of all known drugs. It has adverse effects on all major systems of the body including impairment of sexual functions. The current investigation explores the relationship of heroin addiction with plasma testosterone levels in addicted persons. The effect of withdrawal of the drug on plasma testosterone level has also been investigated. Plasma testosterone levels in subjects with heroin addiction [n=15] were determined on presentation, and after 15 and 30 days of heroin withdrawal. The plasma testosterone level of addicts was significantly lower than that age and sex matched control group [p<0.001] on presentation. Progressive increase in the level was observed after 15 days [p>0.05] and 30 days of withdrawal [p<0.01]. In young adult group [age 19-29 years] there was significant increase in testosterone level after 15 and 30 days of withdrawal. However the level in older groups [30-39 and 40-50 years] did not change after 15 and 30 days of withdrawal