Low dose naloxone for pruritus in systemic sclerosis: Case series and literature review

Katya Meridor, Joshua Berookhim, Yair Levy*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Rationale:Pruritus is a common symptom in patients with systemic sclerosis and has a tremendous effect on the quality of life. Nevertheless, current therapeutic options are limited. The pathogenesis of pruritus in systemic sclerosis is not completely understood; however, opiate-mediated neurotransmission has been postulated to be involved.Patient concerns and diagnosis:We describe 4 female patients with systemic sclerosis suffering from severe pruritus, with an average 5D-itch score of 22.75.Intervention and outcomes:Low-dose oral naloxone was initiated, followed by a significant improvement in the level of pruritus, reaching an average 5D-itch score of 7.5, after 6 and 12 months of treatment. None of the patients experienced side effects.Lessons:Low-dose naloxone plays an important role in the management of pruritus in systemic sclerosis.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)E28653
JournalMedicine (United States)
Volume101
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 28 Jan 2022

Keywords

  • naloxone
  • opiate antagonists
  • pruritus
  • systemic sclerosis

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