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. 2020 Sep 2;15(4):584–627. doi: 10.1007/s11481-020-09941-8

Graphical Abstract.

Graphical Abstract

Blood-brain barrier and the neurovascular unit. With HIV and opiate co-exposure (represented below the dotted line), there is breakdown of tight junction proteins and increased leakage of paracellular compounds into the brain. Despite this, opiate exposure selectively increases the expression of some efflux transporters, thereby restricting brain penetration of specific drugs.