High‐ and low‐dose Mazindol for cocaine dependence in methadone‐maintained patients: A preliminary evaluation

We conducted a preliminary investigation comparing high‐dose mazindol (8 mg/day), low dose mazindol (1 mg/day), and placebo for cocaine abstinence initiation in a 12‐week, double‐blind, randomized clinical trial enrolling 17 cocaine‐dependent, methadone‐maintained patients. Outcome data did not support a difference between the two dose levels on percentage positive urine screens positive for cocaine (1 mg mazindol=68%, 8 mg mazindol=75%, placebo=91%). Doses of mazindol greater than 8 mg may be needed for a cocaine blocking effect, although potential pressor effects may be a limiting factor.

Key words:

• cocaine
• mazindol
• methadone

Notes

Substance Abuse Center, Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06519.

To whom correspondence should be addressed at Substance Abuse Center, 34 Park Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06519.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Arthur Margolin

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