BETA-ENDORPHIN LEVELS IN OPIOID AND NON-OPIOID DRUGS

Abstract

Beta-endorphin (βEND) is a protein created in the anterior pituitary gland due to physiological stresses, such as pain. Opioids are commonly recognized for their ability to alleviate pain by binding to their opioid receptors and replacing βEND. Nevertheless, opioids pose a significant risk due to their numerous adverse effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, physical dependence, tolerance, and respiratory depression. Moreover, prolonged administration of opioid analgesics such as morphine to individuals, particularly those suffering from chronic pain, can induce hyperalgesia. By augmenting the βEND levels, non-opioid medications can potentially provide an alternative to hazardous opioids. We did a comprehensive review article by searching the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to investigate the potential of non-opioid medications in reducing postoperative pain without causing any harmful effects commonly associated with opioids. This study highlights the discovery that non-opioid pharmaceuticals that regulate βEND activity could be a feasible substitute for opioid treatments, which have intrinsic hazards.