urine metal levels in substance abusers

Increasing illicit drug use is one of the main problems in most countries or societies. The monitoring of heavy metals and trace elements in this vulnerable group seems to be necessary. So, we assessed the urinary trace element and toxic metals/metalloids concentrations (Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), Cupper (Cu), Chromium (Cr), Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Arsenic (As), Nickel (Ni), and Mercury (Hg)) in opium, tramadol, and cannabis users compared to healthy subjects. In this cross-sectional study patients with substance use disorder (SUD) (n= 74) were divided into four groups: cannabis, tramadol, opium, and mixed (Simultaneous use of more than one of three studied substances), along with a healthy group (n= 60). Urine samples were prepared by dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction method so that heavy metals/metalloids can be measured by ICP-MS. The mean urinary concentration of Cu (48.15 vs. 25.45; 89.2%, p 0.05). This can be an indication that regardless of the type of drug, the levels of trace elements are changed with respect to the healthy individuals. Our results showed that the illicit drug use causes changes in urinary trace element/ heavy metal/metalloid levels and they highlight the need for monitoring of heavy metals and trace elements in individuals with substance use disorder. Assessment of different elements in biological samples of drug dependents may be useful for implementing the new prevention and treatment protocols. In the case of changes in their levels, complementary recommendations, attention to diet, and periodic assessment of toxic metal levels within treatment programs will be needed.