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Green M, Veltri CA, Grundmann O. Nalmefene Hydrochloride: Potential Implications for Treating Alcohol and Opioid Use Disorder. Subst Abuse Rehabil 2024; 15:43-57. [PMID: 38585160 PMCID: PMC10999209 DOI: 10.2147/sar.s431270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Nalmefene hydrochloride was first discovered as an opioid antagonist derivative of naltrexone in 1975. It is among the most potent opioid antagonists currently on the market and is differentiated from naloxone and naltrexone by its partial agonist activity at the kappa-opioid receptor which may benefit in the treatment of alcohol use disorder. Oral nalmefene has been approved in the European Union for treatment of alcohol use disorder since 2013. As of 2023, nalmefene is available in the United States as an intranasal spray for reversal of opioid overdose but is not approved for alcohol or opioid use disorder as a maintenance treatment. The substantially longer half-life of nalmefene and 5-fold higher binding affinity to opioid receptors makes it a superior agent over naloxone in the reversal of high potency synthetic opioids like fentanyl and the emerging nitazenes. Nalmefene presents with a comparable side effect profile to other opioid antagonists and should be considered for further development as a maintenance treatment for opioid and other substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- MeShell Green
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA
| | - Charles A Veltri
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA
| | - Oliver Grundmann
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Crystal R, Ellison M, Purdon C, Skolnick P. Pharmacokinetic Properties of an FDA-approved Intranasal Nalmefene Formulation for the Treatment of Opioid Overdose. Clin Pharmacol Drug Dev 2024; 13:58-69. [PMID: 37496452 PMCID: PMC10818017 DOI: 10.1002/cpdd.1312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Nalmefene is a high-affinity, long-duration opioid antagonist that was approved in 1995 as an injection for the treatment of opiate overdose, but subsequently withdrawn (2008) for reasons other than safety or effectiveness. The dramatic rise in opioid overdose deaths over the past 7-8 years catalyzed the development of an intranasal (IN) formulation of nalmefene for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose. The studies described here compare the pharmacokinetic properties and safety profiles of an IN formulation containing nalmefene (2.7 mg in 0.1 mL) to an approved 1 mg intramuscular (IM) dose. IN nalmefene produced maximum plasma concentrations that were significantly higher than observed following the IM dose (12.2 and 1.77 ng/mL, respectively). The time to reach maximum plasma concentrations was also faster following IN administration (0.25 and 0.33 hours, respectively) with significant differences in plasma concentrations manifested as early as 2.5 minutes after administration (NCT04759768). The plasma half-life of nalmefene was similar following IM and IN administration (10.6-11.4 hours). Furthermore, dose-normalized nalmefene exposure was similar for both 1 spray in each nostril and 2 sprays in the same nostril compared to a single spray in each nostril (NCT05219669). There were no sex differences in the pharmacokinetic properties of either IN or IM nalmefene. In an era when almost 90% of opioid overdose deaths have been linked to high-potency synthetic opioids, the ability to rapidly deliver high concentrations of nalmefene could represent an important tool for reducing both morbidity and mortality.
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Shan G, Lu H, Dai F, Liu Y, Yin D, Cao H. Low-dose nalmefene pretreatment reduces etomidate-induced myoclonus: A randomized, double-blind controlled trial. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e35138. [PMID: 37682124 PMCID: PMC10489433 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000035138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study compared the effectiveness of nalmefene and fentanyl in reducing the incidence and severity of etomidate-induced myoclonus. METHODS One hundred fifty patients were randomized to receive 0.25ug/kg of nalmefene, 1ug/kg of fentanyl, or the same volume of normal saline 3 minutes prior to etomidate-induced anesthesia. The primary observational indexes were the severity level and incidence of etomidate-induced myoclonus, and the secondary observational index included blood pressure, heart rate, and the incidence of adverse effects from anesthesia induction to resuscitation, such as cough, chest wall rigidity, dizziness, nausea, pain after awakening, and intraoperative awareness. RESULTS The incidence of myoclonus was significantly lower in the nalmefene group (8.0%) than in the fentanyl group (32.0%) (P = .003) and in the normal saline group (72.0%) (P = .000). The severity level of myoclonus in the nalmefene group was significantly lower than the fentanyl group (P = .001) and normal saline group (P = .000). Meanwhile, the incidences of cough and chest wall rigidity during anesthesia induction were significantly lower in the nalmefene group compared with the fentanyl group (P = .003, P = .027). There were no statistically significant differences in heart rate and mean arterial pressure among the 3 gruops (P > .05). There was no difference in the incidence of adverse effects among the 3 groups during recovery from anesthesia (P > .05). CONCLUSION Intravenous injection of 0.25ug/kg of nalmefene 3 minutes prior to etomidate is more effective in preventing etomidate-induced myoclonus during general anesthesia than 1ug/kg of fentanyl.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guofa Shan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Funing People’s Hospital of Jiangsu, Yancheng, Jiangsu province, China
| | - Haixia Lu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Haian Chinese Medicine Hospital of Jiangsu, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Fang Dai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Funing People’s Hospital of Jiangsu, Yancheng, Jiangsu province, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Funing People’s Hospital of Jiangsu, Yancheng, Jiangsu province, China
| | - Dekun Yin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Funing People’s Hospital of Jiangsu, Yancheng, Jiangsu province, China
| | - Hanzhong Cao
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Nantong University, Jiangsu Province, China
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Marin MCD, Pedro MOP, Perrotte G, Martins-da-Silva AS, Lassi DLS, Blaas IK, Castaldelli FI, Brisola dos Santos MB, Kortas GT, Campos MW, Torales J, Ventriglio A, Périco CDAM, Negrão AB, Leopoldo K, de Andrade AG, Malbergier A, Castaldelli-Maia JM. Pharmacological Treatment of Alcohol Cravings. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1206. [PMID: 37626562 PMCID: PMC10452441 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13081206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The treatment of substance addiction is challenging and has persisted for decades, with only a few therapeutic options. Although there are some recommendations for specific treatments for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), there is no specific medication used to treat alcohol cravings, which could benefit millions of patients that are suffering from alcoholism. Cravings, or the urge to use drugs, refer to the desire to experience the effects of a previously experienced psychoactive substance. (2) Methods: We included original studies of alcohol abuse or dependence extracted from a controlled, blind, pharmacological treatment study which presented measures and outcomes related to alcohol cravings. (3) Results: Specific drugs used for the treatment of alcoholism, such as Naltrexone and Acamprosate, have had the best results in relieving craving symptoms, as well as promoting abstinence. Baclofen and anticonvulsants such as Gabapentin and Topiramate have shown good results in promoting abstinence and the cessation of cravings. (4) Conclusions: Specific drugs used for the treatment of alcoholism to obtain the best results can be considered the gold standard for promoting abstinence and relieving cravings. Anticonvulsants and Baclofen also had good results, with these medications being considered as second-line ones. Varenicline is an option for alcohol dependents who also concomitantly ingest tobacco.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Cheibub David Marin
- Perdizes Institute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of the Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05021-001, Brazil; (M.C.D.M.); (D.L.S.L.); (I.K.B.); (G.T.K.); (A.B.N.); (A.G.d.A.); (A.M.)
- Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo 01308-050, Brazil; (M.O.P.P.); (M.B.B.d.S.)
| | - Maria Olívia Pozzolo Pedro
- Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo 01308-050, Brazil; (M.O.P.P.); (M.B.B.d.S.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-903, Brazil; (A.S.M.-d.-S.); (K.L.)
| | - Giuliana Perrotte
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, FMABC University Center, Santo André 09060-870, Brazil; (G.P.); (C.d.A.-M.P.)
| | - Anderson S. Martins-da-Silva
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-903, Brazil; (A.S.M.-d.-S.); (K.L.)
| | - Dangela L. S. Lassi
- Perdizes Institute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of the Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05021-001, Brazil; (M.C.D.M.); (D.L.S.L.); (I.K.B.); (G.T.K.); (A.B.N.); (A.G.d.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Israel Kanaan Blaas
- Perdizes Institute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of the Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05021-001, Brazil; (M.C.D.M.); (D.L.S.L.); (I.K.B.); (G.T.K.); (A.B.N.); (A.G.d.A.); (A.M.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, FMABC University Center, Santo André 09060-870, Brazil; (G.P.); (C.d.A.-M.P.)
| | | | | | - Guilherme Trevizan Kortas
- Perdizes Institute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of the Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05021-001, Brazil; (M.C.D.M.); (D.L.S.L.); (I.K.B.); (G.T.K.); (A.B.N.); (A.G.d.A.); (A.M.)
- Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo 01308-050, Brazil; (M.O.P.P.); (M.B.B.d.S.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-903, Brazil; (A.S.M.-d.-S.); (K.L.)
| | - Marcela Waisman Campos
- Department of Cognitive Neurology, Neuropsychiatry, and Neuropsychology, Fleni, Buenos Aires C1428AQK, Argentina;
| | - Julio Torales
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Medical Sciences, Universidad Nacional de Asunción, San Lorenzo 111454, Paraguay;
- Regional Institute of Health Research, Universidad Nacional de Caaguazú, Coronel Oviedo 050106, Paraguay
- School of Health Sciences, Universidad Sudamericana, Pedro Juan Caballero 130112, Paraguay
| | - Antonio Ventriglio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Medical School, University of Foggia, 71100 Foggia, Italy;
| | | | - André B. Negrão
- Perdizes Institute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of the Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05021-001, Brazil; (M.C.D.M.); (D.L.S.L.); (I.K.B.); (G.T.K.); (A.B.N.); (A.G.d.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Kae Leopoldo
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-903, Brazil; (A.S.M.-d.-S.); (K.L.)
| | - Arthur Guerra de Andrade
- Perdizes Institute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of the Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05021-001, Brazil; (M.C.D.M.); (D.L.S.L.); (I.K.B.); (G.T.K.); (A.B.N.); (A.G.d.A.); (A.M.)
- Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo 01308-050, Brazil; (M.O.P.P.); (M.B.B.d.S.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-903, Brazil; (A.S.M.-d.-S.); (K.L.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, FMABC University Center, Santo André 09060-870, Brazil; (G.P.); (C.d.A.-M.P.)
| | - André Malbergier
- Perdizes Institute (IPer), Clinics Hospital of the Medical School (HCFMUSP), University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05021-001, Brazil; (M.C.D.M.); (D.L.S.L.); (I.K.B.); (G.T.K.); (A.B.N.); (A.G.d.A.); (A.M.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-903, Brazil; (A.S.M.-d.-S.); (K.L.)
| | - João Maurício Castaldelli-Maia
- Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo 01308-050, Brazil; (M.O.P.P.); (M.B.B.d.S.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-903, Brazil; (A.S.M.-d.-S.); (K.L.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, FMABC University Center, Santo André 09060-870, Brazil; (G.P.); (C.d.A.-M.P.)
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Jepkes S, Josee-Lemoy M, Knych H, de Lucena T, Ardeshir A, Stockinger DE. The Pharmacokinetics of Subcutaneous Methylnaltrexone Bromide in Rhesus Macaques ( Macaca mulatta). JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ANIMAL SCIENCE : JAALAS 2023; 62:260-266. [PMID: 37080736 PMCID: PMC10230534 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-jaalas-22-000111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Opioids are an integral component of pain management for nonhuman primates. These potent analgesics also adverse gastrointestinal (GI) effects that include constipation, bloating, and delayed gastric emptying. Methylnaltrexone bromide (MNTX) is a selective, peripherally acting μ- and κ-opioid receptor antagonist that can be used to mitigate the GI effects associated with opioid administration. Unlike naltrexone, a similar drug in this class, MNTX possesses an N-methyl-quaternary amine group that prevents it from crossing the blood brain barrier. This blockage allows inhibition of peripheral GI opioid receptors without affecting opioid-mediated analgesia in the central nervous system. We conducted a pharmacokinetic analysis of MNTX in serum and CSF of 6 healthy juvenile male rhesus macaques after subcutaneous administration of a 0.15-mg/kg dose. We hypothesized that the macaques would demonstrate a Tmax of 0.5 h, similar to that of humans, and that no MNTX would be detected in the CSF. This treatment resulted in a peak serum concentration of 114 ± 44 ng/mL at 0.25 ± 0.00 h; peak CSF at concentrations were 0.34 ± 0.07 ng/mL at the Tmax. These data show that subcutaneous administration of MNTX to rhesus macaques may block peripheral adverse effects of opioids without interfering with their central analgesic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Jepkes
- Primate Medicine Services, California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Marie Josee-Lemoy
- Primate Medicine Services, California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Heather Knych
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Lab Molecular Biosciences, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Thiago de Lucena
- Division of Economics, San Diego State University, San Diego, California; and
| | - Amir Ardeshir
- Infectious Disease Unit, California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Diane E Stockinger
- Primate Medicine Services, California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, California
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Trøstheim M, Eikemo M, Haaker J, Frost JJ, Leknes S. Opioid antagonism in humans: a primer on optimal dose and timing for central mu-opioid receptor blockade. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:299-307. [PMID: 35978096 PMCID: PMC7613944 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01416-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Non-human animal studies outline precise mechanisms of central mu-opioid regulation of pain, stress, affiliation and reward processing. In humans, pharmacological blockade with non-selective opioid antagonists such as naloxone and naltrexone is typically used to assess involvement of the mu-opioid system in such processing. However, robust estimates of the opioid receptor blockade achieved by opioid antagonists are missing. Dose and timing schedules are highly variable and often based on single studies. Here, we provide a detailed analysis of central opioid receptor blockade after opioid antagonism based on existing positron emission tomography data. We also create models for estimating opioid receptor blockade with intravenous naloxone and oral naltrexone. We find that common doses of intravenous naloxone (0.10-0.15 mg/kg) and oral naltrexone (50 mg) are more than sufficient to produce full blockade of central MOR (>90% receptor occupancy) for the duration of a typical experimental session (~60 min), presumably due to initial super saturation of receptors. Simulations indicate that these doses also produce high KOR blockade (78-100%) and some DOR blockade (10% with naltrexone and 48-74% with naloxone). Lower doses (e.g., 0.01 mg/kg intravenous naloxone) are estimated to produce less DOR and KOR blockade while still achieving a high level of MOR blockade for ~30 min. The models and simulations form the basis of two novel web applications for detailed planning and evaluation of experiments with opioid antagonists. These tools and recommendations enable selection of appropriate antagonists, doses and assessment time points, and determination of the achieved receptor blockade in previous studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Trøstheim
- Department of Diagnostic Physics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. .,Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Marie Eikemo
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jan Haaker
- grid.13648.380000 0001 2180 3484Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Siri Leknes
- grid.55325.340000 0004 0389 8485Department of Diagnostic Physics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway ,grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Pharmacologic and Clinical Considerations of Nalmefene, a Long Duration Opioid Antagonist, in Opioid Overdose. PSYCHIATRY INTERNATIONAL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/psychiatryint2040028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid use disorder is a well-established and growing problem in the United States. It is responsible for both psychosocial and physical damage to the affected individuals with a significant mortality rate. Given both the medical and non-medical consequences of this epidemic, it is important to understand the current treatments and approaches to opioid use disorder and acute opioid overdose. Naloxone is a competitive mu-opioid receptor antagonist that is used for the reversal of opioid intoxication. When given intravenously, naloxone has an onset of action of approximately 2 min with a duration of action of 60–90 min. Related to its empirical dosing and short duration of action, frequent monitoring of the patient is required so that the effects of opioid toxicity, namely respiratory depression, do not return to wreak havoc. Nalmefene is a pure opioid antagonist structurally similar to naltrexone that can serve as an alternative antidote for reversing respiratory depression associated with acute opioid overdose. Nalmefene is also known as 6-methylene naltrexone. Its main features of interest are its prolonged duration of action that surpasses most opioids and its ability to serve as an antidote for acute opioid overdose. This can be pivotal in reducing healthcare costs, increasing patient satisfaction, and redistributing the time that healthcare staff spend monitoring opioid overdose patients given naloxone.
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Karl D, Bumb JM, Bach P, Dinter C, Koopmann A, Hermann D, Mann K, Kiefer F, Vollstädt-Klein S. Nalmefene attenuates neural alcohol cue-reactivity in the ventral striatum and subjective alcohol craving in patients with alcohol use disorder. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:2179-2189. [PMID: 33846866 PMCID: PMC8292278 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05842-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Alcohol use disorder is a common and devastating mental illness for which satisfactory treatments are still lacking. Nalmefene, as an opioid receptor modulator, could pharmacologically support the reduction of drinking by reducing the (anticipated) rewarding effects of alcohol and expanding the range of treatment options. It has been hypothesized that nalmefene acts via an indirect modulation of the mesolimbic reward system. So far, only a few imaging findings on the neuronal response to nalmefene are available. OBJECTIVES We tested the effect of a single dose of 18 mg nalmefene on neuronal cue-reactivity in the ventral and dorsal striatum and subjective craving. METHODS Eighteen non-treatment-seeking participants with alcohol use disorder (67% male, M = 50.3 ± 13.9 years) with a current high-risk drinking level (M = 76.9 ± 52 g of pure alcohol per day) were investigated using a cue-reactivity task during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study/design. In addition, self-reported craving was assessed before and after exposure to alcohol cues. RESULTS An a priori defined region of interest (ROI) analysis of fMRI data from 15 participants revealed that nalmefene reduced alcohol cue-reactivity in the ventral, but not the dorsal striatum. Additionally, the subjective craving was significantly reduced after the cue-reactivity task under nalmefene compared to placebo. CONCLUSION In the present study, reduced craving and cue-reactivity to alcohol stimuli in the ventral striatum by nalmefene indicates a potential anti-craving effect of this drug via attenuation of neural alcohol cue-reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian Karl
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - J Malte Bumb
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Patrick Bach
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christina Dinter
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anne Koopmann
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Derik Hermann
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karl Mann
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Falk Kiefer
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Mannheim Center for Translational Neurosciences (MCTN), University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sabine Vollstädt-Klein
- Department of Addictive Behaviour and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany.
- Mannheim Center for Translational Neurosciences (MCTN), University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany.
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Sun MR, Li HL, Ba MY, Cheng W, Zhu HL, Duan YT. Cyclopropyl Scaffold: A Generalist for Marketed Drugs. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 21:150-170. [PMID: 32727325 DOI: 10.2174/1389557520666200729161150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In recent decades, much attention has been given to cyclopropyl scaffolds, which commonly exist in natural products and synthetic organic molecules. Clinical drug molecules with cyclopropyl rings are an area of focus in therapeutic research due to their interesting chemical properties and unique pharmacology activity. These molecular drugs against different targets are applicable in some therapeutic treatment fields including cancer, infection, respiratory disorder, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, dysphrenia, nervous system disorders, endocrine and metabolic disorders, skin disease, digestive disorders, urogenital diseases, otolaryngological and dental diseases, and eye diseases. This review is a guide for pharmacologists who are in search of valid preclinical/clinical drug compounds where the progress, from 1961 to the present day, of approved marketed drugs containing cyclopropyl scaffold is examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo-Ran Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan450001, China
| | - Hong-Liang Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan450001, China
| | - Meng-Yu Ba
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan450001, China
| | - Weyland Cheng
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Hai-Liang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yong-Tao Duan
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450018, China
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Windisch KA, Morochnik M, Reed B, Kreek MJ. Nalmefene, a mu opioid receptor antagonist/kappa opioid receptor partial agonist, potentiates cocaine motivation but not intake with extended access self-administration in adult male mice. Neuropharmacology 2021; 192:108590. [PMID: 33974940 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The mu opioid receptor antagonist/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) partial agonist nalmefene (NMF), a close structural analog of naltrexone (NTX), has been shown to reduce cocaine reward in preclinical models. Given the greater KOR potency and improved bioavailability compared to NTX, NMF may be a promising pharmacotherapeutic for cocaine use disorder (CUD). Here we examine the effects of NMF pretreatment on chronic daily extended access (4h) cocaine intravenous self-administration (IVSA) in adult male C57Bl/6J mice. METHODS separate groups of mice had daily 4h cocaine IVSA sessions (0.25 or 0.5 mg/kg/inf, FR1) for 14 days. Starting on day 8, mice were pretreated with NMF (0, 1, or 10 mg/kg) 30m before each session. A separate group of mice acquired cocaine IVSA [seven days FR1 then four FR3 of 4h daily sessions (0.5 mg/kg/inf)] prior to a single progressive ratio 3 session to examine the effect of 1 mg/kg NMF on cocaine motivation. RESULTS No significant effect of NMF pretreatment on cocaine intake was observed. Acute pretreatment of 1 mg/kg NMF significantly potentiated cocaine motivation as measured by progressive ratio breakpoint. CONCLUSIONS NMF did not significantly attenuate cocaine intake and increased motivation for cocaine suggesting that NMF may not be suitable for non-abstinent CUD patients. Further research is needed with KOR selective partial or full agonists to determine their effect on cocaine reinforcement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle A Windisch
- Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
| | - Michelle Morochnik
- Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Brian Reed
- Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Mary Jeanne Kreek
- Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
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11
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Domi E, Domi A, Adermark L, Heilig M, Augier E. Neurobiology of alcohol seeking behavior. J Neurochem 2021; 157:1585-1614. [PMID: 33704789 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol addiction is a chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse consequences. A main challenge of addiction treatment is to prevent relapse, which occurs in more than >50% of newly abstinent patients with alcohol disorder within 3 months. In people suffering from alcohol addiction, stressful events, drug-associated cues and contexts, or re-exposure to a small amount of alcohol trigger a chain of behaviors that frequently culminates in relapse. In this review, we first present the preclinical models that were developed for the study of alcohol seeking behavior, namely the reinstatement model of alcohol relapse and compulsive alcohol seeking under a chained schedule of reinforcement. We then provide an overview of the neurobiological findings obtained using these animal models, focusing on the role of opioids systems, corticotropin-release hormone and neurokinins, followed by dopaminergic, glutamatergic, and GABAergic neurotransmissions in alcohol seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esi Domi
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, BKV, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Ana Domi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Louise Adermark
- Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Markus Heilig
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, BKV, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Eric Augier
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, BKV, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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12
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Li C, Yan J, Tang D, Zhu J, Huang C, Sun Y, Hu R, Wang H, Fu C, Chen Y, Jiang H. GluN2A-selective positive allosteric modulator-nalmefene-flumazenil reverses ketamine-fentanyl-dexmedetomidine-induced anesthesia and analgesia in rats. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5265. [PMID: 32210319 PMCID: PMC7093419 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-62192-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Anesthetics are used to produce hypnosis and analgesic effects during surgery, but anesthesia for a long time after the operation is not conducive to the recovery of animals or patients. Therefore, finding appropriate treatments to counter the effects of anesthetics could enhance postoperative recovery. In the current study, we discovered the novel role of a GluN2A-selective positive allosteric modulator (PAM) in ketamine-induced anesthesia and investigated the effects of the PAM combined with nalmefene and flumazenil (PNF) in reversing the actions of an anesthetic combination (ketamine-fentanyl-dexmedetomidine, KFD). PAM treatment dose-dependently decreased the duration of the ketamine-induced loss of righting reflex (LORR). Compared with those in the KFD group, the duration of LORR and the analgesic effect of the KFD + PNF group were obviously decreased. Meanwhile, successive administration of PNF and KFD had no adverse effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Both the KFD group and the KFD + PNF group showed no changes in hepatic and renal function or cognitive function in rats. Moreover, the recovery of motor coordination of the KFD + PNF group was faster than that of the KFD group. In summary, our results suggest the potential application of the PNF combination as an antagonistic treatment strategy for anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunzhu Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Center for Specialty Strategy Research of Shanghai Jiao Tong University China Hospital Development Institute, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jia Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Center for Specialty Strategy Research of Shanghai Jiao Tong University China Hospital Development Institute, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Dewei Tang
- Center for Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Jidong Zhu
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chen Huang
- College of Medical Imaging and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201318, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Center for Specialty Strategy Research of Shanghai Jiao Tong University China Hospital Development Institute, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Rong Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Center for Specialty Strategy Research of Shanghai Jiao Tong University China Hospital Development Institute, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Center for Specialty Strategy Research of Shanghai Jiao Tong University China Hospital Development Institute, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Chaoying Fu
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yelin Chen
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, China. .,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Center for Specialty Strategy Research of Shanghai Jiao Tong University China Hospital Development Institute, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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13
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Butelman ER, Fry RS, Kimani R, Reed B, Kreek MJ. Neuroendocrine effects of naltrexone versus nalmefene in humans. Hum Psychopharmacol 2020; 35:e2726. [PMID: 32050055 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Naltrexone and nalmefene are approved for the treatment of alcohol use disorders, in different countries. Naltrexone is also approved for the treatment for opioid use disorders, most recently in a depot formulation. These compounds target primarily μ(mu)- and κ(kappa)-opioid receptor systems, which are involved in the downstream neurobiological effects of alcohol and in the modulation of neuroendocrine stress systems. The study objective was to compare the neuroendocrine effects of naltrexone and nalmefene on adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, and prolactin, in normal volunteers. METHOD Adult normal volunteers (n = 11 male and n = 9 female) were studied in a stress-minimized inpatient setting on three consecutive days, after intravenous saline, naltrexone HCl (10 mg), or nalmefene HCl (10 mg), in fixed order. ACTH, cortisol, and prolactin were analyzed pre-injection and up to 180 min post-injection. RESULTS Naltrexone and nalmefene caused elevations in ACTH and cortisol compared with saline. Nalmefene had a greater effect on ACTH and cortisol, compared with naltrexone. Both compounds also caused elevations in prolactin in males (females were not examined, due to the influence of menstrual cycle on prolactin). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that both nalmefene and naltrexone have effects potentially due to κ-partial agonism in humans, as well as antagonist effects at μ-receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo R Butelman
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Rebecca S Fry
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Rachel Kimani
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Brian Reed
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Mary Jeanne Kreek
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
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14
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Langston JL, Moffett MC, Makar JR, Burgan BM, Myers TM. Carfentanil toxicity in the African green monkey: Therapeutic efficacy of naloxone. Toxicol Lett 2020; 325:34-42. [PMID: 32070766 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2020.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Carfentanil is an ultra-potent opioid with an analgesic potency 10,000 times that of morphine but has received little scientific investigation. Three experiments were conducted to evaluate the toxicity of carfentanil and the efficacy of naloxone in adult male African green monkeys. The first experiment determined the ED50 (found to be 0.71 μg/kg) of subcutaneous carfentanil for inducing bradypnea and/or loss of posture. Experiment 2 attempted to establish the ED50 of naloxone for rapidly reversing the bradypnea/loss of posture induced by carfentanil (1.15 μg/kg). Experiment 3 evaluated the effects of carfentanil (0.575 μg/kg) alone, the safety of naloxone (71-2841 μg/kg), and the efficacy of naloxone (71-710 μg/kg) administration at two time points following carfentanil (1.15 μg/kg) on operant choice reaction time. Collectively, these experiments characterized the temporal progression of carfentanil-induced toxic signs, determined the range of naloxone doses that restored respiratory and gross behavioral function, and determined the time course and range of naloxone doses that partially or completely reversed the effects of carfentanil on operant choice reaction time performance in African green monkeys. These results have practical relevance for the selection of opioid antagonists, initial doses, and expected functional outcomes following treatment of synthetic opioid overdose in a variety of operational/emergency response contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey L Langston
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, 8350 Ricketts Point Rd, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, 21010, United States
| | - Mark C Moffett
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, 8350 Ricketts Point Rd, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, 21010, United States
| | - Jennifer R Makar
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, 8350 Ricketts Point Rd, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, 21010, United States
| | - Bradley M Burgan
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, 8350 Ricketts Point Rd, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, 21010, United States
| | - Todd M Myers
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, 8350 Ricketts Point Rd, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, 21010, United States.
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15
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López-Pelayo H, Zuluaga P, Caballeria E, Van den Brink W, Mann K, Gual A. Safety of nalmefene for the treatment of alcohol use disorder: an update. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2019; 19:9-17. [PMID: 31868031 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2020.1707802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Reduced drinking has been debated as a treatment goal for heavy drinking alcohol-dependent patients, in whom treatment based on abstinence is not always an option. Nalmefene was the first drug approved by the European Medicines Agency (2013) with the indication of reduced drinking in high drinking risk level alcohol-dependent patients. Six years after its introduction in Europe, data from clinical experience can be compared with those from preclinical studies and pivotal registration studies to evaluate what nalmefene has added to the treatment of AUD.Areas covered: Systematic review of efficacy and safety data of nalmefene use in humans from preclinical, phase III and phase IV studies, including systematic reviews, meta-analyses, cost-effectiveness analyses, and other secondary analyses.Expert opinion: Nalmefene introduces a paradigm change in the treatment of AUD that makes it appealing to patients that are reluctant to embrace abstinence, and facilitate patient-centered care in heavy users. However, information regarding safety data in special populations (e.g., patients with alcohol-related diseases, pregnancy, psychiatric disease), and direct comparisons with other potential drugs for alcohol reduction are further needed. Despite the promising role of nalmefene, there are still some factors that limit its wide prescription further than in specialized settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo López-Pelayo
- Grup Recerca Addiccions Clínic (GRAC-GRE), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paola Zuluaga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Elsa Caballeria
- Grup Recerca Addiccions Clínic (GRAC-GRE), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Wim Van den Brink
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Karl Mann
- Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Antoni Gual
- Grup Recerca Addiccions Clínic (GRAC-GRE), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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16
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Miyata H, Takahashi M, Murai Y, Tsuneyoshi K, Hayashi T, Meulien D, Sørensen P, Higuchi S. Nalmefene in alcohol-dependent patients with a high drinking risk: Randomized controlled trial. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2019; 73:697-706. [PMID: 31298784 PMCID: PMC6899457 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.12914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Reducing alcohol consumption is one treatment approach for alcohol-dependent patients. This study compared nalmefene 20 mg and 10 mg with placebo, combined with psychosocial support, in alcohol-dependent Japanese patients with a high or very high drinking risk level (DRL). METHODS This was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, phase 3 study conducted in alcohol-dependent patients with a high or very high DRL. Patients were randomized to 24 weeks of treatment with as-needed nalmefene 20 mg, 10 mg, or placebo with psychosocial support. The primary endpoint was change in heavy drinking days (HDD) from baseline to week 12. A key secondary endpoint was the change in total alcohol consumption (TAC) from baseline to week 12. RESULTS At week 12, 234, 206, and 154 patients who received placebo, nalmefene 20 mg, and 10 mg were included in the primary endpoint analysis. Compared with placebo, nalmefene was associated with significant reductions in HDD at week 12 (difference in 20 mg group, -4.34 days/month; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -6.05 to -2.62; P < 0.0001; difference in 10 mg group, -4.18 days/month; 95%CI: -6.05 to -2.32; P < 0.0001), as well as a significant reduction in TAC at week 12 (P < 0.0001). The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events was 87.9%, 84.8%, and 79.2% in the groups receiving nalmefene 20 mg, 10 mg, and placebo, respectively. These events were mostly of mild or moderate severity. CONCLUSIONS Nalmefene 20 mg or 10 mg effectively reduced alcohol consumption and was well tolerated in alcohol-dependent patients with a high or very high DRL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisatsugu Miyata
- Department of Psychiatry, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Takahashi
- Department of Clinical Management, Clinical Development Headquarters, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Murai
- Department of Clinical Management, Clinical Development Headquarters, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kana Tsuneyoshi
- Department of Biometrics, Clinical Development Headquarters, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan
| | - Takako Hayashi
- Medical Affairs, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Didier Meulien
- Clinical Research and Development - Neurology, H. Lundbeck SAS, Issy-les-Moulineaux, Paris, France
| | | | - Susumu Higuchi
- National Hospital Organization, Kurihama Medical and Addiction Center, Japan
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17
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Colom M, Vidal B, Zimmer L. Is There a Role for GPCR Agonist Radiotracers in PET Neuroimaging? Front Mol Neurosci 2019; 12:255. [PMID: 31680859 PMCID: PMC6813225 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2019.00255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Positron emission tomography (PET) is a molecular imaging modality that enables in vivo exploration of metabolic processes and especially the pharmacology of neuroreceptors. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play an important role in numerous pathophysiologic disorders of the central nervous system. Thus, they are targets of choice in PET imaging to bring proof concept of change in density in pathological conditions or in pharmacological challenge. At present, most radiotracers are antagonist ligands. In vitro data suggest that properties differ between GPCR agonists and antagonists: antagonists bind to receptors with a single affinity, whereas agonists are characterized by two different affinities: high affinity for receptors that undergo functional coupling to G-proteins, and low affinity for those that are not coupled. In this context, agonist radiotracers may be useful tools to give functional images of GPCRs in the brain, with high sensitivity to neurotransmitter release. Here, we review all existing PET radiotracers used from animals to humans and their role for understanding the ligand-receptor paradigm of GPCR in comparison with corresponding antagonist radiotracers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu Colom
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, INSERM, CNRS, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France.,CERMEP, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Benjamin Vidal
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, INSERM, CNRS, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Luc Zimmer
- Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, INSERM, CNRS, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France.,CERMEP, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France.,Institut National des Sciences et Techniques Nucléaires, CEA Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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18
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Clark SD, Abi-Dargham A. The Role of Dynorphin and the Kappa Opioid Receptor in the Symptomatology of Schizophrenia: A Review of the Evidence. Biol Psychiatry 2019; 86:502-511. [PMID: 31376930 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2019.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a debilitating mental illness that affects approximately 1% of the world's population. Despite much research in its neurobiology to aid in developing new treatments, little progress has been made. One system that has not received adequate attention is the kappa opioid system and its potential role in the emergence of symptoms, as well as its therapeutic potential. Here we present an overview of the kappa system and review various lines of evidence derived from clinical studies for dynorphin and kappa opioid receptor involvement in the pathology of both the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. This overview includes evidence for the psychotomimetic effects of kappa opioid receptor agonists in healthy volunteers and their reversal by the pan-opioid antagonists naloxone and naltrexone and evidence for a therapeutic benefit in schizophrenia for 4 pan-opioid antagonists. We describe the interactions between kappa opioid receptors and the dopaminergic pathways that are disrupted in schizophrenia and the histologic evidence suggesting abnormal kappa opioid receptor signaling in schizophrenia. We conclude by discussing future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel David Clark
- Columbia University Medical Center, New York; Terran Biosciences Inc., New York.
| | - Anissa Abi-Dargham
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York
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19
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Castrén S, Mäkelä N, Haikola J, Salonen AH, Crystal R, Scheinin M, Alho H. Treating gambling disorder with as needed administration of intranasal naloxone: a pilot study to evaluate acceptability, feasibility and outcomes. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e023728. [PMID: 31439593 PMCID: PMC6707653 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM There is growing interest in the use of medication-assisted treatments for gambling disorder (GD). Opioid receptor antagonists are hypothesised to blunt the craving associated with gambling. This study was designed to assess the feasibility of using an intranasal naloxone spray to treat GD. DESIGN An 8-week, open-label, uncontrolled pilot study. SETTING A single study site in the capital region of Finland. SUBJECTS Twenty problem gamblers (nine men) were randomised into two groups. Group A (n=10) took one dose into one nostril (2 mg naloxone), as needed, with a maximum of 4 doses/day (max. 8 mg/day). Group B (n=10) took one dose into each nostril (4 mg naloxone) as needed, with a maximum of 4 doses/day (max. 16 mg/day). INTERVENTION Naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray. MEASURES Acceptability and feasibility of the intervention were assessed. Use of study medication, adverse events, gambling frequency and gambling expenditure were recorded in a mobile diary. Problem gambling: South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), depressive symptoms: Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and alcohol use: Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test were recorded. RESULTS Study completion rate was 90%. Acceptability and feasibility scores were high. Group B used intranasal naloxone more frequently than group A, and consequently used more naloxone. No serious adverse events were reported. The postintervention SOGS scores were lower (median=4 (IQR=3.75) versus preintervention scores (median=12 (IQR=4.75)). Depressive symptoms were reduced during the trial (preintervention BDI median=9, IQR=9 vs postintervention BDI median=6, IQR=6). CONCLUSIONS The acceptability and feasibility of using intranasal naloxone were high, and no serious adverse events were reported. Preliminary results suggest mixed results in terms of gambling behaviour (ie, reduced frequency but not expenditure) and decreased depressive symptoms. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER EudraCT2016-001828-56.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari Castrén
- Department of Public Health Solutions, Terveyden ja hyvinvoinnin laitos, Helsinki, Finland
- Faculty of Social Science, Department of Psychology and Speech Language Pathology, Turun Yliopisto, Turku, Finland
| | - Niklas Mäkelä
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, Terveyden ja hyvinvoinnin laitos, Helsinki, Finland
- Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Janne Haikola
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Anne H Salonen
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, Terveyden ja hyvinvoinnin laitos, Helsinki, Finland
- Ita-Suomen yliopisto Terveystieteiden tiedekunta, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Mika Scheinin
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Hannu Alho
- Alcohol, Drugs and Addictions Unit, Terveyden ja hyvinvoinnin laitos, Helsinki, Finland
- Abdominal Center, University and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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20
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Intranasal naloxone rapidly occupies brain mu-opioid receptors in human subjects. Neuropsychopharmacology 2019; 44:1667-1673. [PMID: 30867551 PMCID: PMC6785104 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-019-0368-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Nasal spray formulations of naloxone, a mu-opioid receptor (MOR) antagonist, are currently used for the treatment of opioid overdose. They may have additional therapeutic utility also in the absence of opioid agonist drugs, but the onset and duration of action at brain MORs have been inadequately characterized to allow such projections. This study provides initial characterization of brain MOR availability at high temporal resolution following intranasal (IN) naloxone administration to healthy volunteers in the absence of a competing opioid agonist. Fourteen participants were scanned twice using positron emission tomography (PET) and [11C]carfentanil, a selective MOR agonist radioligand. Concentrations of naloxone in plasma and MOR availability (relative to placebo) were monitored from 0 to 60 min and at 300-360 min post naloxone. Naloxone plasma concentrations peaked at ~20 min post naloxone, associated with slightly delayed development of brain MOR occupancy (half of peak occupancy reached at ~10 min). Estimated peak occupancies were 67 and 85% following 2 and 4 mg IN doses, respectively. The estimated half-life of occupancy disappearance was ~100 min. The rapid onset of brain MOR occupancy by IN naloxone, evidenced by the rapid onset of its action in opioid overdose victims, was directly documented in humans for the first time. The employed high temporal-resolution PET method establishes a model that can be used to predict brain MOR occupancy from plasma naloxone concentrations. IN naloxone may have therapeutic utility in various addictions where brain opioid receptors are implicated, such as gambling disorder and alcohol use disorder.
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21
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Naltrexone and nalmefene attenuate cocaine place preference in male mice. Neuropharmacology 2018; 140:174-183. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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On the front lines of the opioid epidemic: Rescue by naloxone. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 835:147-153. [PMID: 30092179 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Naloxone is a specific, high affinity opioid antagonist that has been used to treat suspected or confirmed overdose for more than 40 years. Naloxone use was initially confined to an emergency room setting, but the dramatic rise in opioid overdose events over the past two decades has, with increasing frequency, shifted naloxone use to first responders including police, emergency medical technicians, and the friends and family of overdose victims. The opioids responsible for overdose events have also evolved, from prescription opioids to heroin and most recently, very high potency synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. In 2016, synthetic opioids were linked to more overdose fatalities than either prescription opioids or heroin. In this review, I will discuss the evolution and use of naloxone products by first responders and the development of additional rescue medications in response to the unprecedented dangers posed by synthetic opioids.
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Cucchi S, Gallucci L, Reynoard J. Syndrome de manque induit par l’interaction médicamenteuse entre nalméfène et méthadone. ANNALES FRANCAISES DE MEDECINE D URGENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.3166/afmu-2018-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Takai N, Miyajima N, Tonomura M, Abe K. Relationship between receptor occupancy and the antinociceptive effect of mu opioid receptor agonists in male rats. Brain Res 2017; 1680:105-109. [PMID: 29269051 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2017.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The analgesic mechanisms of mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonists, including receptor occupancy at the site of action, are not completely understood. The aims of the present study were to evaluate: (i) receptor occupancy in the rat brain after administration of MOR agonists; (ii) the relationship between occupancy and the antinociceptive effect. Morphine (2 or 4 mg/kg) or oxycodone (1 or 3 mg/kg) was subcutaneously administered to rats. The antinociceptive effect of these drugs was measured by the hot-plate test. MOR occupancy in the thalamus was assessed by conducting an ex vivo receptor binding assay using [3H] [D-Ala2, N-MePhe4, Gly-ol]-enkephalin, followed by autoradiographic analysis. Both drugs produced antinociception in a dose-dependent manner, and these effects disappeared after the time point at which the maximal effect was elicited. Thalamic MOR occupancy was observed in a dose-dependent manner at the time point at which maximal antinociception was elicited, and relatively low occupancy was observed when the antinociceptive effect was decreasing. Good correlation between thalamic MOR occupancy and the antinociceptive effect was observed. These findings provide direct evidence for the receptor occupancy of MOR agonists at the site of action and its relationship with the analgesic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nozomi Takai
- Biomarker R&D Department, Shionogi & Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan.
| | | | - Misato Tonomura
- Biomarker R&D Department, Shionogi & Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan.
| | - Kohji Abe
- Biomarker R&D Department, Shionogi & Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan.
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Who Receives Nalmefene and How Does It Work in the Real World? A Single-Arm, Phase IV Study of Nalmefene in Alcohol Dependent Outpatients: Baseline and 1-Month Results. Clin Drug Investig 2017; 38:147-155. [DOI: 10.1007/s40261-017-0590-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Korpi ER, Linden AM, Hytönen HR, Paasikoski N, Vashchinkina E, Dudek M, Herr DR, Hyytiä P. Continuous delivery of naltrexone and nalmefene leads to tolerance in reducing alcohol drinking and to supersensitivity of brain opioid receptors. Addict Biol 2017; 22:1022-1035. [PMID: 26990998 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Revised: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Opioid antagonist treatments reduce alcohol drinking in rodent models and in alcohol-dependent patients, with variable efficacy across different studies. These treatments may suffer from the development of tolerance and opioid receptor supersensitivity, as suggested by preclinical models showing activation of these processes during and after subchronic high-dose administration of the short-acting opioid antagonist naloxone. In the present study, we compared equipotent low and moderate daily doses of naltrexone and nalmefene, two opioid antagonists in the clinical practice for treatment of alcoholism. The antagonists were given here subcutaneously for 7 days either as daily injections or continuous osmotic minipump-driven infusions to alcohol-preferring AA rats having trained to drink 10% alcohol in a limited access protocol. One day after stopping the antagonist treatment, [35 S]GTPγS autoradiography on brain cryostat sections was carried out to examine the coupling of receptors to G protein activation. The results prove the efficacy of repeated injections over infused opioid antagonists in reducing alcohol drinking. Tolerance to the reducing effect on alcohol drinking and to the enhancement of G protein coupling to μ-opioid receptors in various brain regions were consistently detected only after infused antagonists. Supersensitivity of κ-opioid receptors was seen in the ventral and dorsal striatal regions especially by infused nalmefene. Nalmefene showed no clear agonistic activity in rat brain sections or at human recombinant κ-opioid receptors. The findings support the as-needed dosing practice, rather than the standard continual dosing, in the treatment of alcoholism with opioid receptor antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esa R. Korpi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine; University of Helsinki; Finland
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine; National University of Singapore; Singapore
| | - Anni-Maija Linden
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine; University of Helsinki; Finland
| | - Heidi R. Hytönen
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine; University of Helsinki; Finland
| | - Nelli Paasikoski
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine; University of Helsinki; Finland
| | - Elena Vashchinkina
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine; University of Helsinki; Finland
| | - Mateusz Dudek
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine; University of Helsinki; Finland
| | - Deron R. Herr
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine; National University of Singapore; Singapore
| | - Petri Hyytiä
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine; University of Helsinki; Finland
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Montesinos J, Gil A, Guerri C. Nalmefene Prevents Alcohol-Induced Neuroinflammation and Alcohol Drinking Preference in Adolescent Female Mice: Role of TLR4. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2017; 41:1257-1270. [DOI: 10.1111/acer.13416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Montesinos
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pathology of Alcohol; Príncipe Felipe Research Center; Valencia Spain
| | - Anabel Gil
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pathology of Alcohol; Príncipe Felipe Research Center; Valencia Spain
| | - Consuelo Guerri
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pathology of Alcohol; Príncipe Felipe Research Center; Valencia Spain
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28
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Heal DJ, Hallam M, Prow M, Gosden J, Cheetham S, Choi YK, Tarazi F, Hutson P. Dopamine and μ-opioid receptor dysregulation in the brains of binge-eating female rats - possible relevance in the psychopathology and treatment of binge-eating disorder. J Psychopharmacol 2017; 31:770-783. [PMID: 28376679 DOI: 10.1177/0269881117699607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Adult, female rats given irregular, limited access to chocolate develop binge-eating behaviour with normal bodyweight and compulsive/perseverative and impulsive behaviours similar to those in binge-eating disorder. We investigated whether (a) dysregulated central nervous system dopaminergic and opioidergic systems are part of the psychopathology of binge-eating and (b) these neurotransmitter systems may mediate the actions of drugs ameliorating binge-eating disorder psychopathology. Binge-eating produced a 39% reduction of striatal D1 receptors with 22% and 23% reductions in medial and lateral caudate putamen and a 22% increase of striatal μ-opioid receptors. There was no change in D1 receptor density in nucleus accumbens, medial prefrontal cortex or dorsolateral frontal cortex, striatal D2 receptors and dopamine reuptake transporter sites, or μ-opioid receptors in frontal cortex. There were no changes in ligand affinities. The concentrations of monoamines, metabolites and estimates of dopamine (dopamine/dihydroxyphenylacetic acid ratio) and serotonin/5-hydroxyindolacetic acid ratio turnover rates were unchanged in striatum and frontal cortex. However, turnover of dopamine and serotonin in the hypothalamus was increased ~20% and ~15%, respectively. Striatal transmission via D1 receptors is decreased in binge-eating rats while μ-opioid receptor signalling may be increased. These changes are consistent with the attenuation of binge-eating by lisdexamfetamine, which increases catecholaminergic neurotransmission, and nalmefene, a μ-opioid antagonist.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yong K Choi
- 2 Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Frank Tarazi
- 2 Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Peter Hutson
- 3 Shire Development Inc., Lexington, MA, USA.,4 Neurobiology, Teva Pharmaceuticals, West Chester, PA, USA
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Franchitto N, Jullian B, Salles J, Pelissier F, Rolland B. Management of precipitated opiate withdrawal syndrome induced by nalmefene mistakenly prescribed in opiate-dependent patients: a review for clinicians. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2017; 13:669-677. [DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2017.1312340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Franchitto
- Service d’Addictologie, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Toulouse-Purpan, Toulouse, France
- Centre Antipoison et de Toxicovigilance, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Toulouse-Purpan, Toulouse, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) UMR 1027, Université Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Benedicte Jullian
- Service d’Addictologie, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Toulouse-Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Juliette Salles
- Service d’Addictologie, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Toulouse-Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Fanny Pelissier
- Centre Antipoison et de Toxicovigilance, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Toulouse-Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Benjamin Rolland
- Département de Psychiatrie et d'Addictologie, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Lille, Lille, France
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30
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Mann K, Torup L, Sørensen P, Gual A, Swift R, Walker B, van den Brink W. Nalmefene for the management of alcohol dependence: review on its pharmacology, mechanism of action and meta-analysis on its clinical efficacy. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2016; 26:1941-1949. [PMID: 27842940 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2016.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Revised: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Nalmefene, a mu- and delta-opioid receptor (MOR, DOR) antagonist and a partial kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) agonist, is approved in the European Union and other countries for the reduction of alcohol consumption in alcohol dependent patients with a high drinking risk level according to WHO ("target population"). This review presents an overview of nalmefene׳s pharmacology, its mechanisms of action and a meta-analysis on its efficacy in reducing alcohol consumption. The review was based on a systematic search of the literature. Random effects meta-analyses were performed on published and unpublished trials directed at drinking reduction using the changes in heavy drinking days (HDDs) and daily total alcohol consumption (TAC) from baseline to the primary endpoint. For each included study and each dose, Hedges' g was used as an unbiased estimator of the standardised mean differences between nalmefene and placebo. Preclinical data suggests that nalmefene counters alcohol-induced dysregulations of the MOR/endorphine and the KOR/dynorphin system. Evidence further suggests that reduced alcohol consumption is an effective treatment strategy that appeals to patients not ready for abstinence. Finally, meta-analyses confirmed the efficacy of 20mg nalmefene for reducing HDDs in the ITT population (Hedge׳s g=-0.20; 95% CI -0.30 to -0.09) and the target population (Hedge׳s g=-0.33; 95% CI -0.48 to -0.18). Similar results were seen for TAC. Several meta-analyses, including this new meta-analysis, support nalmefene׳s efficacy in reducing alcohol consumption. In conclusion, because it does not require abstinence, this treatment has the potential to motivate more patients for treatment and thus helps to address a major public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Mann
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Lars Torup
- Novo Nordisk Foundation, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Antoni Gual
- Neurosciences Institute, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Robert Swift
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, and the Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Brendan Walker
- Laboratory of Alcoholism and Addictions Neuroscience, Washington State University, WA, USA
| | - Wim van den Brink
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Soyka M, Mutschler J. Treatment-refractory substance use disorder: Focus on alcohol, opioids, and cocaine. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2016; 70:148-61. [PMID: 26577297 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Revised: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Substance use disorders are common, but only a small minority of patients receive adequate treatment. Although psychosocial therapies are effective, relapse is common. This review focusses on novel pharmacological and other treatments for patients with alcohol, opioid, or cocaine use disorders who do not respond to conventional treatments. Disulfiram, acamprosate, and the opioid antagonist naltrexone have been approved for the treatment of alcoholism. A novel, "as needed" approach is the use of the mu-opioid antagonist and partial kappa agonist nalmefene to reduce alcohol consumption. Other novel pharmacological approaches include the GABA-B receptor agonist baclofen, anticonvulsants such as topiramate and gabapentin, the partial nicotine receptor agonist varenicline, and other drugs. For opioid dependence, opioid agonist therapy with methadone or buprenorphine is the first-line treatment option. Other options include oral or depot naltrexone, morphine sulfate, depot or implant formulations, and heroin (diacetylmorphine) in treatment-refractory patients. To date, no pharmacological treatment has been approved for cocaine addiction; however, 3 potential pharmacological treatments are being studied, disulfiram, methylphenidate, and modafinil. Pharmacogenetic approaches may help to optimize treatment response in otherwise treatment-refractory patients and to identify which patients are more likely to respond to treatment, and neuromodulation techniques such as repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation and deep brain stimulation also may play a role in the treatment of substance use disorders. Although no magic bullet is in sight for treatment-refractory patients, some novel medications and brain stimulation techniques have the potential to enrich treatment options at least for some patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Soyka
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig Maximilian University, Nussbaumstrasse 7, 80336 Munich, Germany; Privatklinik Meiringen, Postfach 612, CH-3860 Meiringen, Switzerland.
| | - Jochen Mutschler
- Center for Addictive Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Selnaustrasse 9, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
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Calleja‐Conde J, Echeverry‐Alzate V, Giné E, Bühler K, Nadal R, Maldonado R, Rodríguez de Fonseca F, Gual A, López‐Moreno JA. Nalmefene is effective at reducing alcohol seeking, treating alcohol-cocaine interactions and reducing alcohol-induced histone deacetylases gene expression in blood. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 173:2490-505. [PMID: 27238566 PMCID: PMC4959953 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Revised: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The opioid antagonist nalmefene (selincro®) was approved for alcohol-related disorders by the European Medicines Agency in 2013. However, there have been no studies regarding the effectiveness of nalmefene when alcohol is used in combination with cocaine. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Using operant alcohol self-administration in Wistar rats and qRT-PCR, we evaluated (i) the dose-response curve for s.c. and p.o. nalmefene; (ii) the effects of nalmefene with increasing concentrations of alcohol; (iii) the efficacy of nalmefene on cocaine-potentiated alcohol responding; and (iv) the gene expression profiles of histone deacetylases (Hdac1-11) in peripheral blood in vivo and in the prefrontal cortex, heart, liver and kidney post mortem. KEY RESULTS S.c. (0.01, 0.05, 0.1 mg·kg(-1) ) and p.o. (10, 20, 40 mg·kg(-1) ) nalmefene dose-dependently reduced alcohol-reinforced responding by up to 50.3%. This effect of nalmefene was not dependent on alcohol concentration (10, 15, 20%). Cocaine potentiated alcohol responding by approximately 40% and nalmefene (0.05 mg·kg(-1) ) reversed this effect of cocaine. Alcohol increased Hdac gene expression in blood and nalmefene prevented the increases in Hdacs 3, 8, 5, 7, 9, 6 and 10. In the other tissues, alcohol and nalmefene either did not alter the gene expression of Hdacs, as in the prefrontal cortex, or a tissue-Hdac-specific effect was observed. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Nalmefene might be effective as a treatment for alcohol-dependent patients who also use cocaine. Also, the expression of Hdacs in peripheral blood might be useful as a biomarker of alcohol use and drug response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Calleja‐Conde
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, Campus de SomosaguasComplutense University of MadridMadridSpain
| | - Victor Echeverry‐Alzate
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, Campus de SomosaguasComplutense University of MadridMadridSpain
| | - Elena Giné
- Department of Cellular Biology, School of MedicineComplutense University of MadridMadridSpain
| | - Kora‐Mareen Bühler
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, Campus de SomosaguasComplutense University of MadridMadridSpain
| | - Roser Nadal
- Psychobiology Unit, School of PsychologyInstitut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Rafael Maldonado
- Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la SalutUniversitat Pompeu FabraBarcelonaSpain
| | - Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, Campus de SomosaguasComplutense University of MadridMadridSpain
- Instituto IBIMA de Málaga, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud MentalHospital Regional UniversitarioMálagaSpain
| | - Antoni Gual
- Addictions Unit, Department of PsychiatryClinical Institute of Neuroscience, Hospital ClínicBarcelonaSpain
| | - Jose Antonio López‐Moreno
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, Campus de SomosaguasComplutense University of MadridMadridSpain
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Rose JH, Karkhanis AN, Steiniger-Brach B, Jones SR. Distinct Effects of Nalmefene on Dopamine Uptake Rates and Kappa Opioid Receptor Activity in the Nucleus Accumbens Following Chronic Intermittent Ethanol Exposure. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17081216. [PMID: 27472317 PMCID: PMC5000614 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17081216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Revised: 07/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of pharmacotherapeutics that reduce relapse to alcohol drinking in patients with alcohol dependence is of considerable research interest. Preclinical data support a role for nucleus accumbens (NAc) κ opioid receptors (KOR) in chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) exposure-induced increases in ethanol intake. Nalmefene, a high-affinity KOR partial agonist, reduces drinking in at-risk patients and relapse drinking in rodents, potentially due to its effects on NAc KORs. However, the effects of nalmefene on accumbal dopamine transmission and KOR function are poorly understood. We investigated the effects of nalmefene on dopamine transmission and KORs using fast scan cyclic voltammetry in NAc brain slices from male C57BL/6J mice following five weeks of CIE or air exposure. Nalmefene concentration-dependently reduced dopamine release similarly in air and CIE groups, suggesting that dynorphin tone may not be present in brain slices. Further, nalmefene attenuated dopamine uptake rates to a greater extent in brain slices from CIE-exposed mice, suggesting that dopamine transporter-KOR interactions may be fundamentally altered following CIE. Additionally, nalmefene reversed the dopamine-decreasing effects of a maximal concentration of a KOR agonist selectively in brain slices of CIE-exposed mice. It is possible that nalmefene may attenuate withdrawal-induced increases in ethanol consumption by modulation of dopamine transmission through KORs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie H Rose
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
| | - Anushree N Karkhanis
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
| | | | - Sara R Jones
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
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Gaekens T, Guillaume M, Borghys H, De Zwart LL, de Vries R, Embrechts RCA, Vermeulen A, Megens AAHP, Leysen JE, Herdewijn P, Annaert PP, Atack JR. Lipophilic nalmefene prodrugs to achieve a one-month sustained release. J Control Release 2016; 232:196-202. [PMID: 27107723 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Nalmefene is an opioid antagonist which as a once-a-day tablet formulation has recently been approved for reducing ethanol intake in alcoholic subjects. In order to address the compliance issue in this patient population, a number of potential nalmefene prodrugs were synthesized with the aim of providing a formulation that could provide plasma drug concentrations in the region of 0.5-1.0ng/mL for a one-month period when dosed intramuscular to dogs or minipigs. In an initial series of studies, three different lipophilic nalmefene derivatives were evaluated: the palmitate (C16), the octadecyl glutarate diester (C18-C5) and the decyl carbamate (CB10). They were administered intramuscularly to dogs in a sesame oil solution at a dose of 1mg-eq. nalmefene/kg. The decyl carbamate was released relatively quickly from the oil depot and its carbamate bond was too stable to be used as a prodrug. The other two derivatives delivered a fairly constant level of 0.2-0.3ng nalmefene/mL plasma for one month and since there was no significant difference between these two, the less complex palmitate monoester was chosen to demonstrate that dog plasma nalmefene concentrations were dose-dependent at 1, 5 and 20mg-eq. nalmefene/kg. In a second set of experiments, the effect of the chain length of the fatty acid monoester promoieties was examined. The increasingly lipophilic octanoate (C8), decanoate (C10) and dodecanoate (C12) derivatives were evaluated in dogs and in minipigs, at a dose of 5mg-eq. nalmefene/kg and plasma nalmefene concentrations were measured over a four-week period. The pharmacokinetic profiles were very similar in both species with Cmax decreasing and Tmax increasing with increasing fatty acid chain length and the target plasma concentrations (0.5-1.0ng/mL over a month-long period) were achieved with the dodecanoate (C12) prodrug. These data therefore demonstrate that sustained plasma nalmefene concentrations can be achieved in both dog and minipig using nalmefene prodrugs and that the pharmacokinetic profile of nalmefene can be tuned by varying the length of the alkyl group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Gaekens
- API Small Molecule Development, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Michel Guillaume
- API Small Molecule Development, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Herman Borghys
- Neuroscience, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Loeckie L De Zwart
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Ronald de Vries
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Roger C A Embrechts
- Drug Product Development, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - An Vermeulen
- Clinical Pharmacology, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Anton A H P Megens
- Neuroscience, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium
| | - Josée E Leysen
- Neuroscience, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium; Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Research, VU University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Piet Herdewijn
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10, Box 1030, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pieter P Annaert
- Laboratory for Pharmacotechnology and Biopharmacy, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, O&N2, Herestraat 49-Box 921, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - John R Atack
- Neuroscience, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Turnhoutseweg 30, B-2340 Beerse, Belgium.
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35
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Soyka M. Nalmefene for the treatment of alcohol use disorders: recent data and clinical potential. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2016; 17:619-26. [PMID: 26810044 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2016.1146689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Few pharmacotherapies are available for alcoholism. Numerous studies indicate the involvement of the opioid-endorphin system in mediating the reinforcing effects of alcohol via dopaminergic neurons. The opioid antagonist naltrexone was found to be effective in alcohol treatment, and the European Medicines Agency has now approved the mu-opioid antagonist und partial kappa agonist nalmefene. AREAS COVERED This article presents background information on the chemistry of nalmefene and pre-clinical and clinical findings. The three relevant Phase III studies, all of which followed a harm-reduction, "as needed" approach and found reduced alcohol consumption with nalmefene 18 (20) mg, are discussed in detail. EXPERT OPINION The integration of the "as needed" approach into conventional psychosocial alcohol therapies may be challenging but offers the opportunity to reach otherwise not treated patients. Nalmefene is the first medication to be approved specifically in this indication and seems to be most suitable for patients with alcohol misuse or a rather low physical dependence on alcohol who do not require immediate detoxification or inpatient treatment. Although a categorical distinction between patients who want to stop heavy drinking or drinking at all over time may be somewhat hypothetical, nalmefene offers new treatment options to patients with alcohol use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Soyka
- a Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy , Ludwig Maximilian University , Munich , Germany.,b Privatklinik Meiringen , Meiringen , Switzerland
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Nalmefene Mistakenly Prescribed to Reduce Alcohol Consumption in Patients Under Buprenorphine Substitution Therapy Resulting in Acute Opioid Withdrawal: Management in an Emergency Setting. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2016; 36:100-3. [PMID: 26658085 DOI: 10.1097/jcp.0000000000000448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Rosato V, Abenavoli L, Federico A, Masarone M, Persico M. Pharmacotherapy of alcoholic liver disease in clinical practice. Int J Clin Pract 2016; 70:119-31. [PMID: 26709723 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.12764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Alcohol is the most commonly used addictive substance and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a major cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, responsible for 47.9% of all liver chronic deaths. Despite ALD has a significant burden on the health, few therapeutic advances have been made in the last 40 years, particularly in the long-term management of these patients. METHODS we searched in PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE databases to identify relevant English language publications focused on long-term therapy of ALD. RESULTS From the huge literature on this topic, including about 755 studies, 75 were selected as eligible including clinical trials and meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS Abstinence remains the cornerstone of ALD therapy but it is also the most difficult therapeutic target to achieve and the risk of recidivism is very high at any time. Several drugs (disulfiram, naltrexone, acamprosate, sodium oxybate) have proven to be effective to prevent alcohol relapse and increase the abstinence, although the psychotherapeutic support remains crucial. Baclofen seems to be effective to improve abstinence, showing an excellent safety and tolerability. ALD is often complicated by a state of malnutrition, which is related to a worst mortality. A nutritional therapy may improve survival in cirrhotic patients, reversing muscle wasting, weight loss and specific nutritional deficiencies. While in aggressive forms of alcoholic hepatitis are recommended specific drug treatments, including glucocorticoids or pentoxifylline, for the long-term treatment of ALD, specific treatments aimed at stopping the progression of fibrosis are not yet approved, but there are some future perspective in this field, including probiotics and antibiotics, caspase inhibitors, osteopontin and endocannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Rosato
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Department, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - L Abenavoli
- Department of Health Science, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - A Federico
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - M Masarone
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - M Persico
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
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Kyhl LEB, Li S, Faerch KU, Soegaard B, Larsen F, Areberg J. Population pharmacokinetics of nalmefene in healthy subjects and its relation to μ-opioid receptor occupancy. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 81:290-300. [PMID: 26483076 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Revised: 08/31/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The aims of this study were to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PK) model to describe the PK of nalmefene in healthy subjects and to relate the exposure of nalmefene to the μ-opioid receptor occupancy by simulations in the target population. METHODS Data from nine phase I studies (243 subjects) with extensive blood sampling were pooled and used for the population PK model building. Data from four other phase I studies (85 subjects) were pooled and used as an external validation dataset. Eight subjects from an imaging study contributed occupancy data and the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) relationship was modelled. Combining the population PK model and the PK/PD relationship enabled simulations to predict μ-opioid occupancy. RESULTS A two compartment model with first order absorption best described the nalmefene PK data. The typical subject in the population was estimated to have a systemic clearance of 60.4 l h(-1) and a central volume of distribution of 266 l. Absolute oral bioavailability was estimated to 41% without food intake and with food about 53%. Simulation of the μ-opioid receptor occupancy shows that the 95% confidence bound is within or above 60-90% occupancy for up to 22-24 h after a single dose of 20 mg nalmefene. CONCLUSIONS A robust population PK model for nalmefene was developed. Based on the concentration-occupancy model the μ-opioid receptor occupancy after a single 20 mg dose of nalmefene is predicted to be above the target therapeutic occupancy for about 24 h in about 95% of the target population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars-Erik Broksoe Kyhl
- Clinical & Quantitative Pharmacology, H. Lundbeck A/S, Ottiliavej 9, 2500, Valby, Denmark
| | - Shen Li
- Quintiles, 6700 W. 115th Street, Overland Park, Kansas, 66211, USA
| | - Kirstine Ullitz Faerch
- Clinical & Quantitative Pharmacology, H. Lundbeck A/S, Ottiliavej 9, 2500, Valby, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Soegaard
- Clinical & Quantitative Pharmacology, H. Lundbeck A/S, Ottiliavej 9, 2500, Valby, Denmark
| | - Frank Larsen
- Clinical & Quantitative Pharmacology, H. Lundbeck A/S, Ottiliavej 9, 2500, Valby, Denmark
| | - Johan Areberg
- Clinical & Quantitative Pharmacology, H. Lundbeck A/S, Ottiliavej 9, 2500, Valby, Denmark
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Vickers SP, Hackett D, Murray F, Hutson PH, Heal DJ. Effects of lisdexamfetamine in a rat model of binge-eating. J Psychopharmacol 2015; 29:1290-307. [PMID: 26589243 DOI: 10.1177/0269881115615107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Binge-eating disorder is a common psychiatric disorder affecting ~2% of adults. Binge-eating was initiated in freely-fed, lean, adult, female rats by giving unpredictable, intermittent access to ground, milk chocolate over four weeks. The rats avidly consumed chocolate during 2 hr binge sessions, with compensatory reductions of normal chow intake in these sessions and the days thereafter. Bodyweights of binge-eating rats were normal. The model's predictive validity was explored using nalmefene (0.1-1.0mg/kg), R-baclofen (1.0-10mg/kg) and SB-334867 (3.0-30 mg/kg) (orexin-1 antagonist), which all selectively decreased chocolate bingeing without reducing chow intake. Sibutramine (0.3-5.0mg/kg) non-selectively reduced chocolate and chow consumption. Olanzapine (0.3-3.0mg/kg) was without effect and rolipram (1.0-10mg/kg) abolished all ingestive behaviour. The pro-drug, lisdexamfetamine (LDX; 0.1-1.5mg/kg), dose-dependently reduced chocolate bingeing by ⩽ 71% without significantly decreasing normal chow intake. Its metabolite, D-amphetamine (0.1-1.0mg/kg), dose-dependently and preferentially decreased chocolate bingeing ⩽ 56%. Using selective antagonists to characterize LDX's actions revealed the reduction of chocolate bingeing was partially blocked by prazosin (α1-adrenoceptor; 0.3 and 1.0mg/kg) and possibly by SCH-23390 (D1; 0.1mg/kg). RX821002 (α2-adrenoceptor; 0.1 and 0.3mg/kg) and raclopride (D2; 0.3 and 0.5mg/kg) were without effect. The results indicate that LDX, via its metabolite, d-amphetamine, reduces chocolate bingeing, partly by indirect activation of α1-adrenoceptors and perhaps D1 receptors.
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Severe opioid withdrawal syndrome after a single dose of nalmefene. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2015; 71:1025-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s00228-015-1884-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Soyka M. [Nalmefene: a novel pharmacotherapeutic option for alcoholism]. DER NERVENARZT 2014; 85:578-82. [PMID: 24126432 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-013-3843-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Relapses into alcoholism are becoming more frequent even after long-term psychotherapy and social therapy. Previous evidence-based pharmacotherapy was limited to administration of acamprosate and the opioid antagonist naltrexone. Both forms of therapy have not become well established in Germany. The European Medicine Agency (EMA) has now approved a further opioid antagonist, nalmefene which is an antagonist of the µ-opioid receptor just as naltrexon and is also a partial agonist of kappa receptors. The preclinical and clinical investigations carried out with nalmefene are presented. It seems to be interesting that in the therapy studies relevant to approval, nalmefene was not administered for support of abstinence but as an"as needed"medication for reduction of drink volume.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Soyka
- Privatklinik Meiringen, 3860, Meiringen, Schweiz,
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Nalmefene reverses carfentanil-induced loss of righting reflex and respiratory depression in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2014; 738:153-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Abstract
To date, few pharmacotherapies have been established for the treatment of alcoholism. There is a plethora of research concerning the involvement of the opioid-endorphin system in mediating the reinforcing effects of alcohol. The opioid antagonist naltrexone has been found to be effective in alcohol treatment. In addition, the mu-opioid antagonist and partial kappa agonist nalmefene was recently approved by the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of alcoholism. The relevant studies followed a harm-reduction, 'as needed' approach and showed a reduction in alcohol consumption with nalmefene 20 mg rather than increased abstinence rates, (which was not the primary goal of the relevant studies). The available literature is reviewed and discussed. Nalmefene appears to be a safe and effective treatment for alcohol dependence.
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Abstract
The role of the brain opioid system in alcohol dependence has been the subject of much research for over 25 years. This review explores the evidence: firstly describing the opioid receptors in terms of their individual subtypes, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and ligands; secondly, summarising emerging data from specific neurochemical, behavioural and neuroimaging studies, explaining the characteristics of addiction with a focus on alcohol dependence and connecting the opioid system with alcohol dependence; and finally reviewing the known literature regarding opioid antagonists in clinical use for alcohol dependence. Further interrogation of how modulation of the opioid system, via use of MOP (mu), DOP (delta) and KOP (kappa) agents, restores the balance of a dysregulated system in alcohol dependence should increase our insight into this disease process and therefore guide better methods for understanding and treating alcohol dependence in the future.
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Sinclair J, Chick J, Sørensen P, Kiefer F, Batel P, Gual A. Can alcohol dependent patients adhere to an 'as-needed' medication regimen? Eur Addict Res 2014; 20:209-17. [PMID: 24557083 DOI: 10.1159/000357865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A pooled analysis of 'as-needed medication use' data from 1,276 patients in two randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trials of nalmefene in the treatment of alcohol dependence was performed to explore whether an 'as-needed' regimen is an acceptable and feasible strategy in patients seeking help for alcohol dependence. Adherence was defined as alcohol consumption and medication intake, or no alcohol consumption (with or without medication intake). Nalmefene was taken on approximately half of the study days; placebo was taken more often than nalmefene (52.8 vs. 64.5% of days, respectively). In each treatment group medication intake appeared to vary according to patients' needs in that intake correlated with the baseline drinking pattern. Sixty-eight percent of the nalmefene-treated patients (78% of the study completers) adhered to the as-needed treatment regimen on at least 80% of the study days. In conclusion, as-needed use is a feasible, patient-centred approach that engages patients with alcohol dependence in the active management of their illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Sinclair
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Abstract
In 1994, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the μ-opioid receptor antagonist naltrexone to treat alcohol dependence. However, treatments requiring daily administration, such as naltrexone, are inconsistently adhered to in substance abusing populations, and constant medication exposure can increase risk of adverse outcomes, e.g., hepatotoxicity. This has fostered a 'targeted' or 'as needed' approach to opioid receptor antagonist treatment, in which medications are used only in anticipation of or during high-risk situations, including times of intense cravings. Initial studies of the ability of targeted naltrexone to reduce drinking-related outcomes were conducted in problem drinkers and have been extended into larger, multi-site, placebo-controlled investigations with positive results. Another μ-opioid receptor antagonist, nalmefene, has been studied on an 'as-needed' basis to reduce heavy drinking in alcohol-dependent individuals. These studies include three large multi-site trials in Europe of up to 1 year in duration, and serve as the basis for the recent approval of nalmefene by the European Medicines Agency as an 'as-needed' adjunctive treatment for alcohol dependence. We review potential moderators of opioid receptor antagonist treatment response including subjective assessments, objective clinical measures and genetic variants. In sum, the targeted or 'as-needed' approach to treatment with opioid antagonists is an efficacious harm-reduction strategy for problem drinking and alcohol dependence.
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Abstract
The opioid system modulator nalmefene (Selincro®) is approved in the EU for as-needed use to reduce alcohol consumption in alcohol-dependent adults with a high drinking risk level. This article reviews the efficacy and tolerability of as-needed oral nalmefene in the treatment of alcohol dependence, as well as summarizing its pharmacological properties. In two randomized, double-blind, multinational trials (ESENSE 1 and ESENSE 2), as-needed nalmefene significantly reduced the number of heavy drinking days (in both trials) and total alcohol consumption (in ESENSE 1) at month 6. In the randomized, double-blind, multinational SENSE trial, as-needed nalmefene significantly improved both of these endpoints at month 13, but not at month 6. As-needed nalmefene had a greater beneficial effect in the target population (i.e. alcohol-dependent patients with at least a high drinking risk level at screening and randomization), with post hoc analyses revealing significant reductions in both the number of heavy drinking days and total alcohol consumption at month 6 (in ESENSE 1 and ESENSE 2) and at month 13 (in SENSE). Oral nalmefene was generally well tolerated in patients with alcohol dependence, with the most commonly occurring adverse events including nausea, insomnia and dizziness. In conclusion, as-needed nalmefene provides an important new option for use in the treatment of alcohol dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian M Keating
- Adis, 41 Centorian Drive, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, North Shore 0754, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Franck J, Jayaram-Lindström N. Pharmacotherapy for alcohol dependence: status of current treatments. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2013; 23:692-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2013.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2013] [Revised: 05/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Effect of Nalmefene 20 and 80 mg on the Corrected QT Interval and T-Wave Morphology. Clin Drug Investig 2012; 31:799-811. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03256919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Rückfallprävention bei Alkoholabhängigkeit: Acamprosat und Naltrexon als kombinierte pharmakologische Strategie. DER NERVENARZT 2012; 84:584-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00115-012-3633-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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