Frequency of Opium Use among Diabetic Patients and Their Attitude

Objective: Opium was referred to as the ancient medicine's method of choice for treating diabetes mellitus. But in some recent studies, it is reported as the cause for higher blood sugar levels. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of opium use among diabetic patients and attitude of them towards the effects of opium use on their disease.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on 202 diabetic patients referred to the endocrinology clinic who completed a self administered questionnaire about various variables including their demographic features, history of opium use, and attitudes towards the effects of opium use on diabetes mellitus. The relevant data were extracted and analyzed using parametric tests.

Results: Among the examinees, 10.9% reported the current use of opium. The attitude of patients who were married as well as the self-employed, the retired and those who were not on a diet prescribed by a physician was significantly more positive than the other group regarding opium use. Seventy two percent of those who had reported opium use were advised by others to use opium for treating their hyperglycemia. In comparison to the group with no opium use, the other group significantly neglected their diet and had more positive attitude about opium use.

Conclusion: Considering the findings, educating people on the harms of opium use in the diabetic population seems necessary. Moreover, assessment of diabetic patients in regard to their opium use and the required healthcare measures would be important.