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Changes in serum copper level during detoxification of acutely poisoned drug addicts.

Authors :
Piekoszewski W
Pach J
Sadlik K
Winnik L
Source :
Biological trace element research [Biol Trace Elem Res] 2000 Winter; Vol. 78 (1-3), pp. 1-6.
Publication Year :
2000

Abstract

Although it is known that drug addicts are a high-risk group for disruption of many homeostatic processes, little is know about changes in serum trace elements concentrations after taking the psychoactive substances. The aim of the study was to check the influence of the taking homemade heroin on serum level of copper. Blood samples were taken from 30 opiate addicts, and copper concentrations were measured by the means of atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The result of the study show that in the examined group, copper serum concentrations (1.35 mg/L) upon admission to the clinic were higher than in the control group (1.11 mg/L) but decreased during hospitalization (1.18 mg/L). There was no correlation between duration of stay at the hospital and changes in serum copper concentration.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
0163-4984
Volume :
78
Issue :
1-3
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Biological trace element research
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
11314969
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1385/BTER:78:1-3:1