Opioid-Induced Esophageal Dysfunction: An Emerging Entity with Sweeping Consequences

Dhyanesh Patel; Michael Vaezi

doi:10.1007/s11938-018-0210-2

Opioid-Induced Esophageal Dysfunction: An Emerging Entity with Sweeping Consequences

Curr Treat Options Gastroenterol. 2018 Dec;16(4):616-621. doi: 10.1007/s11938-018-0210-2.

Authors

Dhyanesh Patel¹, Michael Vaezi²

Affiliations

¹ Center for Swallowing and Esophageal Disorders, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA. Dan.patel@vumc.org.
² Center for Swallowing and Esophageal Disorders, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.

PMID: 30382573
DOI: 10.1007/s11938-018-0210-2

Abstract

Adverse effects of opioids on the gastrointestinal tract are well known. However, with the rising epidemic of opioids, its detrimental effects on esophageal physiology are now being increasingly recognized. In this commentary, we briefly review the current evidence behind opioid-induced esophageal dysfunction with potential pathophysiology and treatment options.

Keywords: Achalasia; Dysphagia; Esophagus; Opioids.

Publication types

Review