Methadone and oedema in the palliative care setting: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

This highlights an important potential adverse effect of methadone in a society of increased methadone prescription for pain control. The published literature to date is reviewed and possible underlying mechanisms explored.

Drug‐induced peripheral oedema: An aetiology‐based review

“…Calcineurin inhibitors: 36 ciclosporin, tacrolimus Increased capillary permeability (as these drugs are responsible for capillary leak syndrome) mTOR inhibitors: 53 everolimus, sirolimus -lymphedema through antilymphangiogenic effects of VEGFR-3/VEGFC pathway inhibition 53 -increased capillary permeability 121 Pump proton inhibitors 122,123 lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole Unknown Opioids Analgesics: [124][125][126] fentanyl, hydromorphone, morphine, oxycodone, tramadol -increased capillary permeability through nonspecific histamine releasing effects 124,127 -water retention through AVP release 125,127 Replacement therapy: methadone 127,128 Hypoglycemic sulfonamides: 129,130 Unknown thymoglobulin 36 Increased capillary permeability (as responsible for capillary leak syndrome)…”