A Case of Delirium and Rhabdomyolysis in Severe Iatrogenic Opioid Withdrawal

Opioid withdrawal is often thought of as psychologically and physiologically distressing but ultimately not life-threatening, however it can result in severe medical complications in some cases. The case herein describes an elderly gentleman on methadone maintenance therapy who experienced delirium and rhabdomyolysis when in severe iatrogenic opioid withdrawal following initiation of naltrexone for alcohol use disorder management. This case and ensuing discussion illustrates the importance of pharmacovigilance and of medically managing opioid withdrawal and reviews some of the more serious complications associated with acute opioid withdrawal.
Source: Psychosomatics - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Source Type: research