Yoga as an Adjunct for Management of Opioid Dependence Syndrome: A Nine-Month Follow-Up Case Report

Abstract

Opioid dependence syndrome (ODS) is a chronic relapsing remitting condition associated with significant impairment and mortality risk. Opioid substitution therapy is used worldwide, but long-term retention rates are low and there is risk of misuse and diversion. Yoga practice can improve quality of life, reduce chronic pain, and enhance endogenous opioids (beta-endorphins). We describe a case of ODS where yoga was added to the conventional management and who was followed up for 9 months. Assessments were done for clinical symptoms, urine drug screening, plasma beta-endorphins, and Buprenorphine dosage. We observed an improvement in his clinical symptoms and reduction in the requirements for Buprenorphine. A slight increase in basal plasma beta-endorphin levels was also observed at the 9-month follow-up (from 2.02 pmol/L at baseline to 6.51 pmol/L).

Opioid use disorder and role of yoga as an adjunct in management (OUDARYAM): Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

“…We have been offering tele-yoga services to healthy people for stress management and to patients suffering from mental health disorders for over a year now 49 . In a pilot feasibility study, we found tele-yoga to be feasible and acceptable in patients with substance use disorders including OUD patients 50 , 51 and have also observed an increase in plasma endorphin levels immediately after yoga practice in healthy participants 52 . Tele-medicine offered by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru has been found acceptable and feasible for psychiatric patients 53 .…”

“…Yoga-add on therapy (YAT: Standard treatment + yoga) : Based on our previous clinical experience the duration of intervention was decided to be 24 weeks 48 – 51 . Yoga will be offered as an add-on to standard treatment.…”