Abstract
There are several problems with the drugs currently used to decrease alcohol consumption (i.e. alcohol-sensitizing drugs). Their efficacy is unproven, they are associated with toxicity and there are several contraindications for use. New therapies are needed because alcohol-related problems affect almost 20% of the adult population. A new strategy was developed that involves attenuation of alcohol intake via serotonin uptake inhibitors. Since several experiments showed that serotonin uptake inhibitors consistently attenuated ethanol intake in rats, we tested their effects in humans. In three randomized, double-blind, cross-over studies, the ethanol intake of early stage problem drinkers was significantly attenuated by the serotonin uptake inhibitors (zimelidine, citalopram and viqualine). Although marked variations in the pattern of response to serotonin uptake inhibitors were observed, 63% to 92% of the subjects responded to the drug treatments. Effects on ethanol intake are distinct from the antidepressant properties of these drugs and most likely can be explained by a facilitation of satiety signals. Our results suggest an innovative approach for moderating ethanol intake in problem drinkers.
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Notes on contributors
Claudio A. Naranjo
Both authors formerly Public Health Officers, Eastern Sydney Area Public Health Unit Previously general practitioner, Orange NSW, Australia.