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Bonnet U, McAnally HB. How prevalent and severe is addiction on GABAmimetic drugs in an elderly German general hospital population? Focus on gabapentinoids, benzodiazepines, and z-hypnotic drugs. Hum Psychopharmacol 2022; 37:e2822. [PMID: 34687489 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Gabapentinoids (GPT) are reported to be increasingly misused by opioid- and polydrug-users, but the addictive potential of GPT outside of these populations remains understudied. Investigations comparing GPT abuse and dependence liability to that of other commonly prescribed Central Nervous System-acting medications are therefore warranted. We provide a comparison of GPT-abuse/dependence to that of other GABAmimetics within an elderly population. DESIGN DSM-IV-TR-based data (previously prospectively collected by SKID-I-interview) from a random sample of elderly patients admitted to a metropolitan German general hospital were reviewed. The prevalence and severity of GPT, benzodiazepine (BDZ), and z-hypnotic drug (ZD)-abuse and -dependence were compared, stratified also by mono-substance (no concurrent current or previous substance use) and de novo-substance (first)-abuse and -dependence states. RESULTS Among 400 patients (75 ± 6.4 years old; 63% females), neither current nor past abuse of BDZ, ZD or GPT, nor other illicit substances was observed. Dependence upon BDZ, ZD or GPT was observed among 55 (13.75%) individuals. The related lifetime/12-month prevalence-rates were: dependence condition (BDZ: 7%/2.45%; ZD: 4.25%/4.25%; GPT: 2.75/2.5%); mono-dependence condition (BDZ: 2.25%/0.75%; ZD: 1%/1%, GPT: 0%/0%); de novo-dependence condition (BDZ: 2.75%/1.75%; ZD: 1%/1%, GPT: 0.5%/0.5%). Opioid analgesic-dependence (N = 43/400) was significantly more frequently linked with BDZ than with GPT (p < 0.01) [Correction added on 29 December 2021, after first online publication: In the sentence 'Opioid analgesic-dependence…', the term 'and ZD' has been deleted]. For all three GABAmimetic classes, most mono- and de novo-dependence states were mild-to-moderate and lasted 2-6 years (median). CONCLUSION GABAmimetic-dependence was usually mixed with other substance-dependences. Every third to fourth instance of BDZ- or ZD-dependence was a mono-dependence condition, while a pure GPT-dependence was absent in this elderly (and illicit substance-naïve) population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udo Bonnet
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Castrop-Rauxel, Castrop-Rauxel, Germany, Academic Teaching Hospital of the University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, LVR-Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Heath B McAnally
- Northern Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, LLC, Eagle River, Alaska, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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2
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Quintero Garzola GC. Reviewing Treatments for Cocaine Consume Problems: The Gabapentinoid Alternative. OPEN ACCESS JOURNAL OF CLINICAL TRIALS 2021. [DOI: 10.2147/oajct.s327934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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3
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Althobaiti YS, Almutairi FM, Alshehri FS, Altowairqi E, Marghalani AM, Alghorabi AA, Alsanie WF, Gaber A, Alsaab HO, Almalki AH, Hakami AY, Alkhalifa T, Almalki AD, Hardy AMG, Shah ZA. Involvement of the dopaminergic system in the reward-related behavior of pregabalin. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10577. [PMID: 34011976 PMCID: PMC8134490 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88429-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been an increase in cases of drug addiction and prescription drug abuse worldwide. Recently, pregabalin abuse has been a focus for many healthcare agencies, as highlighted by epidemiological studies. We previously evaluated the possibility of pregabalin abuse using the conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm. We observed that a 60 mg/kg dose could induce CPP in mice and that pregabalin-rewarding properties were mediated through glutamate neurotransmission. Notably, the dopaminergic reward circuitry is also known to play a crucial role in medication-seeking behavior. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the possible involvement of dopaminergic receptor-1 in pregabalin-induced CPP. Mice were randomly allocated to receive saline or the dopamine-1 receptor antagonist SKF-83566 (0.03 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). After 30 min, the mice received either saline or pregabalin (60 mg/kg) during the conditioning phase. Among the control groups that received saline or SKF-83566, the time spent in the two conditioning chambers was not significantly altered. However, among the pregabalin-treated group, there was a marked increase in the time spent in the drug-paired chamber compared to the time spent in the vehicle-paired chamber. Notably, blocking dopamine-1 receptors with SKF-83566 completely prevented pregabalin-induced place preference, thus demonstrating the engagement of the dopaminergic system in pregabalin-induced reward-related behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf S Althobaiti
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia.
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia.
- General Administration for Precursors and Laboratories, General Directorate of Narcotics Control, Ministry of Interior, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Farooq M Almutairi
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Deanship of Scientific Research, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Laboratories Sciences, University of Hafar Al-Batin, College of Clinical Laboratories Sciences, Hafar Al-Batin, 39923, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad S Alshehri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ebtehal Altowairqi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aliyah M Marghalani
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal A Alghorabi
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Walaa F Alsanie
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Gaber
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hashem O Alsaab
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Atiah H Almalki
- Addiction and Neuroscience Research Unit, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alqassem Y Hakami
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki Alkhalifa
- General Administration for Precursors and Laboratories, General Directorate of Narcotics Control, Ministry of Interior, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad D Almalki
- General Administration for Precursors and Laboratories, General Directorate of Narcotics Control, Ministry of Interior, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ana M G Hardy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Zahoor A Shah
- Department of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
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Fonseca F, Lenahan W, Dart RC, Papaseit E, Dargan PI, Wood DM, Guareschi M, Maremmani I, Auriacombe M, Farré M, Scherbaum N, Torrens M. Non-medical Use of Prescription Gabapentinoids (Gabapentin and Pregabalin) in Five European Countries. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:676224. [PMID: 33995154 PMCID: PMC8113698 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.676224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Non-medical use (NMU) of prescription GABA analogs (pregabalin and gabapentin) has been reported especially in opiate dependent persons. However, by now the prevalence of NMU of gabapentinoids in the general population has not been sufficiently evaluated. The aim of this research paper is to determine the prevalence of prescription GABA analog NMU and associated demographics in five European countries with special detail of Spain. Methods: The RADARS Survey of Non-Medical Use of Prescription Drugs Program (NMURx) is a harmonized series of contemporaneous cross-sectional surveys of adults conducted in multiple countries. NMURx collects data from the general population in each participating country about NMU of prescription drugs, illicit drugs, and associated demographics. NMU was defined as "using a medication without a doctor's prescription or for any reason other than what was recommended by their doctor." Responses from Spain (4Q2017, n=10,062) were analyzed in detail. Comparative data were available from France, Germany, Italy, and UK. Responses were collected using non-probability quota sampling and post-stratification population weighting was applied to reflect the national distributions of adults, based on age, gender, and census region. Rates of NMU and associated demographics were reported as rate of past 90-day NMU per 100,000 adult population with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Germany (1,197 per 100,000 adult population [95% CI: 1,004.3-1,379.1]) and United Kingdom (1,067 per 100,000 adult population [95% CI: 851.3-1,283.2]) presented the highest prevalence of gabapentinoids NMU. In Spain the prevalence of past 90 days GABA analog NMU was: 344.4, 95% (CI 204.8-484.0), with male predominance. Those who non-medically use GABA analogs had a higher prevalence of lifetime chronic pain, lifetime illicit drug use, and previous substance abuse treatment. In Spain, 20% of respondents who ever have used gabapentinoids, reported a lifetime NMU; the prevalence was higher for pregabalin 624 (6.2%) than for gabapentin 444 (4.4%). The main reasons for use were to self-treat pain and other medical conditions. Conclusions: The risk of NMU of gabapentinoids should not be neglected. Subjects with a history of chronic pain and lifetime substance use disorders had an increased risk of NMU of gabapentinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francina Fonseca
- Hospital del Mar, Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions (INAD), Barcelona, Spain.,Grup de Recerca en Addiccions, Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - William Lenahan
- Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Safety, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Richard C Dart
- Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Safety, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Esther Papaseit
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTP-Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute), Badalona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Paul I Dargan
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David M Wood
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marilena Guareschi
- Association for the Application of Neuroscientific Knowledge to Social Aims (AU-CNS), Lucca, Italy
| | - Icro Maremmani
- Vincent P. Dole Research Group, Santa Chiara University Hospital, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marc Auriacombe
- Addiction Psychiatry Department, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.,Addiction Team, Sanpsy Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) USR 3413, Bordeaux, France.,Pôle Addictologie et Filière Régionale, Centre Hospitalier (CH) Charles Perrens and Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Magí Farré
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol (HUGTP-Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute), Badalona, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Norbert Scherbaum
- LVR-Hospital Essen, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marta Torrens
- Hospital del Mar, Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions (INAD), Barcelona, Spain.,Grup de Recerca en Addiccions, Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
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5
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Abstract
This review summarizes current evidence on the abuse and misuse of the gabapentinoids pregabalin and gabapentin. Pharmacovigilance studies, register-based studies, surveys, clinical toxicology studies, and forensic toxicology studies were identified and scrutinized with the goal to define the problem, identify risk factors, and discuss possible methods to reduce the potential for abuse and misuse. Studies found that gabapentinoids are abused and misused and that individuals with a history of psychiatric disorders or substance use disorder seem to be at high risk. Moreover, some evidence supports the notion that patients with opioid use disorders may be at an increased risk of abusing gabapentinoids. Available evidence also suggests that abuse and misuse are more frequent in users of pregabalin compared with users of gabapentin. Health professionals and prescribers should be aware of the risk for misuse of pregabalin and gabapentin, which eventually could lead to abuse, substance dependence, and intoxications. Prescribing to patients belonging to risk populations such as those with psychiatric disorders or substance use disorder should be avoided if possible and, if prescribed, signs of misuse and abuse should be monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Staffan Hägg
- Futurum, Jönköping, Region Jönköping County and Department of Biomedicine and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Futurum, Hus B4, Ryhov Hospital, S-551 85, Jönköping, Sweden.
| | - Anna K Jönsson
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedicine and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Chemistry, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Johan Ahlner
- Division of Drug Research, Department of Biomedicine and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Chemistry, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
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6
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Relapse to cocaine use persists following extinction of drug-primed craving. Neuropharmacology 2019; 155:185-193. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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7
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Bonnet U, Scherbaum N. How addictive are gabapentin and pregabalin? A systematic review. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2017; 27:1185-1215. [PMID: 28988943 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2017.08.430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2017] [Revised: 07/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In the last ten years, gabapentin and pregabalin have been becoming dispensed broadly and sold on black markets, thereby, exposing millions to potential side-effects. Meanwhile, several pharmacovigilance-databases have warned for potential abuse liabilities and overdose fatalities in association with both gabapentinoids. To evaluate their addiction risk in more detail, we conducted a systematic review on PubMed/Scopus and included 106 studies. We did not find convincing evidence of a vigorous addictive power of gabapentinoids which is primarily suggested from their limited rewarding properties, marginal notes on relapses, and the very few cases with gabapentinoid-related behavioral dependence symptoms (ICD-10) in patients without a prior abuse history (N=4). In support, there was no publication about people who sought treatment for the use of gabapentinoids. Pregabalin appeared to be somewhat more addictive than gabapentin regarding the magnitude of behavioral dependence symptoms, transitions from prescription to self-administration, and the durability of the self-administrations. The principal population at risk for addiction of gabapentinoids consists of patients with other current or past substance use disorders (SUD), mostly opioid and multi-drug users, who preferred pregabalin. Pure overdoses of gabapentinoids appeared to be relative safe but can become lethal (pregabalin > gabapentin) in mixture with other psychoactive drugs, especially opioids again and sedatives. Based upon these results, we compared the addiction risks of gabapentin and pregabalin with those of traditional psychoactive substances and recommend that in patients with a history of SUD, gabapentinoids should be avoided or if indispensable, administered with caution by using a strict therapeutic and prescription monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Bonnet
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatic Medicine, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Castrop-Rauxel, Academic Teaching Hospital of the University of Duisburg-Essen, Grutholzallee 21, D-44577 Castrop-Rauxel, Germany; LVR-Hospital Essen, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, D-45147 Essen, Germany.
| | - N Scherbaum
- LVR-Hospital Essen, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Duisburg-Essen, D-45147 Essen, Germany
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8
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Amaral GF, Dossa PD, Viebig LB, Konno FTC, Consoli A, Martins MDFM, Viani FC, Bondan EF. Astrocytic expression of GFAP and serum levels of IL-1β and TNF-α in rats treated with different pain relievers. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2016. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-82502016000400006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
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9
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Abstract
Relapse to cocaine seeking is associated with potentiated excitatory synapses in nucleus accumbens. α2δ-1 is an auxiliary subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels that affects calcium-channel trafficking and kinetics, initiates extracellular signaling cascades, and promotes excitatory synaptogenesis. Previous data demonstrate that repeated exposure to alcohol, nicotine, methamphetamine, and morphine upregulates α2δ-1 in reward-related brain regions, but it was unclear whether this alteration generalized to cocaine. Here, we show that α2δ-1 protein was increased in nucleus accumbens after cocaine self-administration and extinction compared with saline controls. Furthermore, the endogenous ligand thrombospondin-1, responsible for the synaptogenic properties of the α2δ-1 receptor, was likewise elevated. Using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings of EPSCs in nucleus accumbens, we demonstrated that gabapentin, a specific α2δ-1 antagonist, preferentially reduced the amplitude and increased the paired-pulse ratio of EPSCs evoked by electrical stimulation in slices from cocaine-experienced rats compared with controls. In vivo, gabapentin microinjected in the nucleus accumbens core attenuated cocaine-primed but not cue-induced reinstatement. Importantly, gabapentin's effects on drug seeking were not due to a general depression of spontaneous or cocaine-induced locomotor activity. Moreover, gabapentin had no effect on reinstatement of sucrose seeking. These data indicate that α2δ-1 contributes specifically to cocaine-reinstated drug seeking, and identifies this protein as a target for the development of cocaine relapse medications. These results also inform ongoing discussion in the literature regarding efficacy of gabapentin as a candidate addiction therapy.
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10
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Bye A. Experiments with cocaine and heroin addicts—are they predictive? Curr Opin Pharmacol 2014; 14:74-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2013.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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de Guglielmo G, Cippitelli A, Somaini L, Gerra G, Li H, Stopponi S, Ubaldi M, Kallupi M, Ciccocioppo R. Pregabalin reduces cocaine self-administration and relapse to cocaine seeking in the rat. Addict Biol 2013; 18:644-53. [PMID: 22734646 DOI: 10.1111/j.1369-1600.2012.00468.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Pregabalin (Lyrica™) is a structural analog of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and is approved by the FDA for partial epilepsy, neuropathic pain and generalized anxiety disorders. Pregabalin also reduces excitatory neurotransmitter release and post-synaptic excitability. Recently, we demonstrated that pregabalin reduced alcohol intake and prevented relapse to the alcohol seeking elicited by stress or environmental stimuli associated with alcohol availability. Here, we sought to extend these findings by examining the effect of pregabalin on cocaine self-administration (0.25 mg/infusion) and on cocaine seeking elicited by both conditioned stimuli and stress, as generated by administration of yohimbine (1.25 mg/kg). The results showed that oral administration of pregabalin (0, 10 or 30 mg/kg) reduced self-administration of cocaine over an extended period (6 hours), whereas it did not modify self-administration of food. In cocaine reinstatement studies, pregabalin (10 and 30 mg/kg) abolished the cocaine seeking elicited by both the pharmacological stressor yohimbine and the cues predictive of cocaine availability. Overall, these results demonstrate that pregabalin may have potential in the treatment of some aspects of cocaine addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giordano de Guglielmo
- Pharmacology Unit; School of Pharmacy; University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri; Camerino; Italy
| | - Andrea Cippitelli
- Pharmacology Unit; School of Pharmacy; University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri; Camerino; Italy
| | - Lorenzo Somaini
- Addiction Treatment Centre; Health Local Unit; Biella; Italy
| | - Gilberto Gerra
- Drug Prevention and Health Branch; Division for Operations; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime; Vienna; Austria
| | - Hongwu Li
- Pharmacology Unit; School of Pharmacy; University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri; Camerino; Italy
| | - Serena Stopponi
- Pharmacology Unit; School of Pharmacy; University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri; Camerino; Italy
| | - Massimo Ubaldi
- Pharmacology Unit; School of Pharmacy; University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri; Camerino; Italy
| | - Marsida Kallupi
- Pharmacology Unit; School of Pharmacy; University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri; Camerino; Italy
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- Pharmacology Unit; School of Pharmacy; University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri; Camerino; Italy
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12
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Blum K, Chen TJH, Bailey J, Bowirrat A, Femino J, Chen ALC, Simpatico T, Morse S, Giordano J, Damle U, Kerner M, Braverman ER, Fornari F, Downs BW, Rector C, Barh D, Oscar-Berman M. Can the chronic administration of the combination of buprenorphine and naloxone block dopaminergic activity causing anti-reward and relapse potential? Mol Neurobiol 2011; 44:250-68. [PMID: 21948099 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-011-8206-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2011] [Accepted: 09/07/2011] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Opiate addiction is associated with many adverse health and social harms, fatal overdose, infectious disease transmission, elevated health care costs, public disorder, and crime. Although community-based addiction treatment programs continue to reduce the harms of opiate addiction with narcotic substitution therapy such as methadone maintenance, there remains a need to find a substance that not only blocks opiate-type receptors (mu, delta, etc.) but also provides agonistic activity; hence, the impetus arose for the development of a combination of narcotic antagonism and mu receptor agonist therapy. After three decades of extensive research, the federal Drug Abuse Treatment Act 2000 (DATA) opened a window of opportunity for patients with addiction disorders by providing increased access to options for treatment. DATA allows physicians who complete a brief specialty-training course to become certified to prescribe buprenorphine and buprenorphine/naloxone (Subutex, Suboxone) for treatment of patients with opioid dependence. Clinical studies indicate that buprenorphine maintenance is as effective as methadone maintenance in retaining patients in substance abuse treatment and in reducing illicit opioid use. With that stated, we must consider the long-term benefits or potential toxicity attributed to Subutex or Suboxone. We describe a mechanism whereby chronic blockade of opiate receptors, in spite of only partial opiate agonist action, may ultimately block dopaminergic activity causing anti-reward and relapse potential. While the direct comparison is not as yet available, toxicity to buprenorphine can be found in the scientific literature. In considering our cautionary note in this commentary, we are cognizant that, to date, this is what we have available, and until such a time when the real magic bullet is discovered, we will have to endure. However, more than anything else this commentary should at least encourage the development of thoughtful new strategies to target the specific brain regions responsible for relapse prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Blum
- Department of Psychiatry and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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13
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Schmidt HD, Pierce RC. Cocaine-induced neuroadaptations in glutamate transmission: potential therapeutic targets for craving and addiction. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2010; 1187:35-75. [PMID: 20201846 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2009.05144.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence indicates that repeated exposure to cocaine leads to profound changes in glutamate transmission in limbic nuclei, particularly the nucleus accumbens. This review focuses on preclinical studies of cocaine-induced behavioral plasticity, including behavioral sensitization, self-administration, and the reinstatement of cocaine seeking. Behavioral, pharmacological, neurochemical, electrophysiological, biochemical, and molecular biological changes associated with cocaine-induced plasticity in glutamate systems are reviewed. The ultimate goal of these lines of research is to identify novel targets for the development of therapies for cocaine craving and addiction. Therefore, we also outline the progress and prospects of glutamate modulators for the treatment of cocaine addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heath D Schmidt
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Neurobiology and Behavior, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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14
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Peng XQ, Gardner EL, Xi ZX. Gamma-vinyl GABA increases nonvesicular release of GABA and glutamate in the nucleus accumbens in rats via action on anion channels and GABA transporters. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2010; 208:511-9. [PMID: 20033132 PMCID: PMC3713230 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-009-1753-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2009] [Accepted: 12/01/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE gamma-Amino butyric acid (GABA) is a well-characterized inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, which may also stimulate nonvesicular release of other neurotransmitters under certain conditions. We have recently reported that gamma-vinyl GABA (GVG), an irreversible GABA transaminase inhibitor, elevates extracellular GABA but fails to alter dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). OBJECTIVES Here, we investigated the mechanism(s) by which GVG elevates extracellular GABA levels and whether GVG also alters glutamate release in the NAc. MATERIALS AND METHODS In vivo microdialysis was used to simultaneously measure extracellular NAc GABA and glutamate before and after GVG administration in freely moving rats. RESULTS Systemic administration of GVG or intra-NAc local perfusion of GVG significantly increased extracellular NAc GABA and glutamate. GVG-enhanced GABA was completely blocked by intra-NAc local perfusion of 5-nitro-2, 3-(phenylpropylamino)-benzoic acid (NPPB), a selective anion channel blocker and partially blocked by SKF89976A, a type 1 GABA transporter inhibitor. GVG-enhanced glutamate was completely blocked by NPPB or SKF89976A. Tetrodotoxin, a voltage-dependent Na(+)-channel blocker, failed to alter GVG-enhanced GABA and glutamate. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that GVG-enhanced extracellular GABA and glutamate are mediated predominantly by the opening of anion channels and partially by the reversal of GABA transporters. Enhanced extracellular glutamate may functionally attenuate the pharmacological action of GABA and prevent enhanced GABA-induced excess inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Qing Peng
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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Jupp B, Lawrence AJ. New horizons for therapeutics in drug and alcohol abuse. Pharmacol Ther 2010; 125:138-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2009.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2009] [Accepted: 11/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Anti-relapse medications: preclinical models for drug addiction treatment. Pharmacol Ther 2009; 124:235-47. [PMID: 19683019 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2009.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2009] [Accepted: 06/12/2009] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Addiction is a chronic relapsing brain disease and treatment of relapse to drug-seeking is considered the most challenging part of treating addictive disorders. Relapse can be modeled in laboratory animals using reinstatement paradigms, whereby behavioral responding for a drug is extinguished and then reinstated by different trigger factors, such as environmental cues or stress. In this review, we first describe currently used animal models of relapse, different relapse triggering factors, and the validity of this model to assess relapse in humans. We further summarize the growing body of pharmacological interventions that have shown some promise in treating relapse to psychostimulant addiction. Moreover, we present an overview on the drugs tested in cocaine or methamphetamine addicts and examine the overlap of existing preclinical and clinical data. Finally, based on recent advances in our understanding of the neurobiology of relapse and published preclinical data, we highlight the most promising areas for future anti-relapse medication development.
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Xi ZX, Gardner EL. Hypothesis-driven medication discovery for the treatment of psychostimulant addiction. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 1:303-27. [PMID: 19430578 DOI: 10.2174/1874473710801030303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Psychostimulant abuse is a serious social and health problem, for which no effective treatments currently exist. A number of review articles have described predominantly 'clinic'-based pharmacotherapies for the treatment of psychostimulant addiction, but none have yet been shown to be definitively effective for use in humans. In the present article, we review various 'hypothesis'- or 'mechanism'-based pharmacological agents that have been studied at the preclinical level and evaluate their potential use in the treatment of psychostimulant addiction in humans. These compounds target brain neurotransmitter or neuromodulator systems, including dopamine (DA), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), endocannabinoid, glutamate, opioid and serotonin, which have been shown to be critically involved in drug reward and addiction. For drugs in each category, we first briefly review the role of each neurotransmitter system in psychostimulant actions, and then discuss the mechanistic rationale for each drug's potential anti-addiction efficacy, major findings with each drug in animal models of psychostimulant addiction, abuse liability and potential problems, and future research directions. We conclude that hypothesis-based medication development strategies could significantly promote medication discovery for the effective treatment of psychostimulant addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Xiong Xi
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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18
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Pharmacological characterization of harmaline-induced tremor activity in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2009; 616:73-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2009.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2009] [Revised: 05/12/2009] [Accepted: 05/19/2009] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Blum K, Chen ALC, Chen TJH, Braverman ER, Reinking J, Blum SH, Cassel K, Downs BW, Waite RL, Williams L, Prihoda TJ, Kerner MM, Palomo T, Comings DE, Tung H, Rhoades P, Oscar-Berman M. Activation instead of blocking mesolimbic dopaminergic reward circuitry is a preferred modality in the long term treatment of reward deficiency syndrome (RDS): a commentary. Theor Biol Med Model 2008; 5:24. [PMID: 19014506 PMCID: PMC2615745 DOI: 10.1186/1742-4682-5-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2008] [Accepted: 11/12/2008] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and hypothesis Based on neurochemical and genetic evidence, we suggest that both prevention and treatment of multiple addictions, such as dependence to alcohol, nicotine and glucose, should involve a biphasic approach. Thus, acute treatment should consist of preferential blocking of postsynaptic Nucleus Accumbens (NAc) dopamine receptors (D1-D5), whereas long term activation of the mesolimbic dopaminergic system should involve activation and/or release of Dopamine (DA) at the NAc site. Failure to do so will result in abnormal mood, behavior and potential suicide ideation. Individuals possessing a paucity of serotonergic and/or dopaminergic receptors, and an increased rate of synaptic DA catabolism due to high catabolic genotype of the COMT gene, are predisposed to self-medicating any substance or behavior that will activate DA release, including alcohol, opiates, psychostimulants, nicotine, gambling, sex, and even excessive internet gaming. Acute utilization of these substances and/or stimulatory behaviors induces a feeling of well being. Unfortunately, sustained and prolonged abuse leads to a toxic" pseudo feeling" of well being resulting in tolerance and disease or discomfort. Thus, a reduced number of DA receptors, due to carrying the DRD2 A1 allelic genotype, results in excessive craving behavior; whereas a normal or sufficient amount of DA receptors results in low craving behavior. In terms of preventing substance abuse, one goal would be to induce a proliferation of DA D2 receptors in genetically prone individuals. While in vivo experiments using a typical D2 receptor agonist induce down regulation, experiments in vitro have shown that constant stimulation of the DA receptor system via a known D2 agonist results in significant proliferation of D2 receptors in spite of genetic antecedents. In essence, D2 receptor stimulation signals negative feedback mechanisms in the mesolimbic system to induce mRNA expression causing proliferation of D2 receptors. Proposal and conclusion The authors propose that D2 receptor stimulation can be accomplished via the use of Synapatmine™, a natural but therapeutic nutraceutical formulation that potentially induces DA release, causing the same induction of D2-directed mRNA and thus proliferation of D2 receptors in the human. This proliferation of D2 receptors in turn will induce the attenuation of craving behavior. In fact as mentioned earlier, this model has been proven in research showing DNA-directed compensatory overexpression (a form of gene therapy) of the DRD2 receptors, resulting in a significant reduction in alcohol craving behavior in alcohol preferring rodents. Utilizing natural dopaminergic repletion therapy to promote long term dopaminergic activation will ultimately lead to a common, safe and effective modality to treat Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS) behaviors including Substance Use Disorders (SUD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obesity and other reward deficient aberrant behaviors. This concept is further supported by the more comprehensive understanding of the role of dopamine in the NAc as a "wanting" messenger in the meso-limbic DA system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Blum
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA .
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