Objective: To evaluate safety and effectiveness of opiate antagonist detoxification under general anesthesia according to available prospective and retrospective data.
Methods: We analyzed all detoxification cases that were performed in Vilnius University Emergency Hospital in the period of 2002-2005. Data of 65 patients from prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study and 21 retrospective cases were included in the study.
Results: Full opiate receptor blockade was achieved in 85 cases (98.84%). No complications related to detoxification procedure or general anesthesia were recorded. Differences in procedure protocols and possible implications for clinical practice are discussed.
Conclusions: The protocol of the prospective study may be recommended as a safe and effective detoxification method.