MORPHINE-METABOLISM IN OPIATE DEPENDENT AND NORMAL MEN BY DOUBLE ISOTOPE TECHNIQUES

Abstract

A mixture of morphine-63H and morphine-N-14CH3 was administered to an opiate dependent and to a normal male subject [S]. In both Ss the urinary excretion of radioactivity was rapid and exceeded 85% of the dose over 72 h. The extent and time pattern of N-demethylation differed in the 2 Ss with N-demethylation of morphine being slower and less in the opiate addict. The use of the double isotope technique is detecting small changes in morphine metabolism was discussed.