Three cases of nalbuphine hydrochloride dependence associated with anabolic steroid use.

Three case reports are presented of nalbuphine hydrochloride dependence meeting DSM IIIR and ICD10 criteria for opioid dependence. Nalbuphine hydrochloride is being obtained from illicit sources and used by those using performance enhancing drugs. In some cases this leads to opioid dependence. There is a potential risks of crossover between the misuse of drugs of performance and the misuse of psychoactive drugs by injection. Further research into the dependence potential of nalbuphine and the extent of the crossover between steroid misuse and other psychoactive drug misuse is required. The legal status of nalbuphine should be reviewed in the light of its availability on the black market.