International immunopharmacology
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Int. Immunopharmacol. · Sep 2010
Clinical TrialLong-term intrathecal morphine and bupivacaine upregulate MOR gene expression in lymphocytes.
Several studies have shown that opioids may suppress the immune system either by binding to mu-opioid receptors (MOR) expressed in immune cells or by activating these receptors within the central nervous system. ⋯ This preliminary study suggests that opioids must be used with care in patients who are already immunosuppressed by disease or by other, concurrently administered drugs.