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Could targeting oxtyocin help treat opioid addiction?

A new review suggests targeting the oxytocin system could be an important target for developing medications to treat opioid addiction. Oxytocin-based therapies show promise in preventing relapse and may provide a novel effective approach to treating drug dependence.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateApr 5, 2017

Opioid relapse rates fall with use of medication for adults in criminal justice system

A randomized controlled clinical trial found that extended-release naltrexone significantly prevented relapses in men with previous criminal justice system involvement. The study showed a significant reduction in heroin and opioid use, as well as no overdoses during the six-month treatment period.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 30, 2016

ADHD drug effective for people with dependency

A new study from Karolinska Institutet reveals that administering higher doses of the ADHD drug methylphenidate can be effective in treating individuals with both ADHD and substance dependency. The treatment led to reduced relapse rates, fewer ADHD symptoms, and improved adherence to treatment regimens.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAddiction·DateOct 14, 2013

Patients who use anti-depressants are more likely to suffer relapse, researcher finds

A meta-analysis by McMaster researcher Paul Andrews found that patients who have used anti-depressant medications can be nearly twice as susceptible to future episodes of major depression. The study suggests that people who have not been taking any medication are at a 25 per cent risk of relapse, compared to 42 per cent or higher for t...

SourceMcMaster University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJul 19, 2011

Landmark Carnegie Mellon addiction study finds people underestimate power of drug cravings

A landmark Carnegie Mellon University study found that people who know they are addicted to drugs tend to underestimate the intensity of their cravings. This underestimation can lead to a higher willingness to take risks and engage in behaviors that increase the likelihood of relapse. The study suggests that teaching individuals to ant...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateFeb 12, 2007

Drug may help women stop smoking

A study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research found that naltrexone significantly improved smoking cessation rates for women, with a 49% increase in success rates compared to men. The medication reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms, leading to a higher likelihood of quitting smoking.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateOct 9, 2006

Genetics plays role in relapse of illicit drug-seeking behavior

A study published in Psychopharmacology found that genetics and environmental factors contribute to the relapse of drug-seeking behavior. The research used rat models to identify glutamate as a neurotransmitter involved in stirring cravings and uncontrollable urges. Dr. Paul J. Kruzich suggests that genetic variations may increase susc...