Glutamatergic agents for
cocaine dependence.
Dackis C, O'Brien C.
Treatment Research Center
University of Pennsylvania
3900 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104 Dackis@mail.med.upenn.edu
Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2003 Nov; 1003: 328-45.
Abstract
Effective medications for cocaine dependence
are needed to improve outcome in this chronic, relapsing disorder. Medications
affecting glutamate function are reasonable candidates for investigation, given
the involvement of glutamate circuits in reward-related brain regions and
evidence of cocaine-induced glutamatergic dysregulation. In addition, it is
increasingly apparent that glutamatergic mechanisms underlie several clinical
aspects of cocaine dependence, including euphoria, withdrawal, craving, and
hedonic dysfunction. Even denial, traditionally viewed as purely psychological,
may result, in part, from dysfunctional glutamate-rich cortical regions. We
review the involvement of glutamate in reward-related circuits, the acute and
chronic effects of cocaine on these pathways, and glutamatergic mechanisms that
contribute to the neurobiology of cocaine dependence. We also present
preliminary data from our research of modafinil, a
glutamate-enhancing agent with promise in the treatment of cocaine-addicted
individuals.
1. Modafinil for
sustaining the alertness of helicopter pilots
2. Modafinil augmentation
of antidepressant treatment
3. Modafinil the
unique properties of a new stimulant
4. Modafinil children
with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
5. Modafinil dosage
and safety
6. Modafinil successful
treatment of hypersomnia & narcolepsy
7. Modafinil narcolepsy:
symptoms and management
8. Modafinil
amplification of cortical serotonin release
9. Modafinil
treatment of alcoholic organic brain syndrome
10. Modafinil
effect on melatonin, cortisol, and growth hormone
11. Modafinil
in obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome
12. Modafinil
vs dextroamphetamine in treatment of adult ADHD
13. Modafinil
efficacy in narcolepsy
14. Modafinil
switching from narcolepsy drugs to modafinil
15. Modafinil
dopaminergic transmission mediates CNS stimulants
