S M Elsheikh

Sexual dysfunctions are noted in chronic opioidaddicts, including reduced libido and sexual performance, erectile dysfunction, and delayed ejaculation in males. The aim of the present study is to assess sex hormone levels and the effect of opioid dependency on sexual function in male patients compared with non-users male.The study comprises 30 male patients with opioid dependency and 30 healthy controls presenting to the inpatient addiction unit of Kasr El Aini University Hospital, Cairo, Egypt, from November 2012 to March 2013. Data were collected using the Sexuality Scale and International Index of Erectile Function (ILEF). Sex hormone levels were measured.More than half (56.6%) had an intermediate level of sexual esteem while 23.3% had a low level.Additionally, 36.6% suffered mild erectile dysfunction while 3.33 % reported severe erectile dysfunction. Furthermore, 20% had severe sexual desire dysfunction, and almost half (46.6%) had mild to moderate orgasmic dysfunction. Finally, 30% had low levels of testosterone,50% had high prolactin levels, and 30% of the opioid-dependent group had high levels of luteinizing hormone which was statistically significant.Our findings suggest that there is a strong correlation between sexual dysfunctionamong male opioid dependents and high levels of luteinizing hormone.