Opioid Intoxication to Withdrawal: A Case of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) is characterized by a transient reduction in left ventricular systolic function with apical akinesis. TTC is usually associated with stress and emotional responses; however, opioid withdrawal has been identified as a rare cause of precipitation of TTC. We describe the case of an elderly female with chronic opioid dependence, who presented with symptoms of toxicity and developed TTC upon opioid withdrawal. Her symptoms improved with clonidine. In the time of an ongoing opioid crisis and an attempt to reduce opioid use among patients, this case reinforces the importance of anticipating TTC as a possibly life-threatening complication of sudden discontinuation of opioids in patients who have developed dependence on it.