Abstract
The authors evaluated the effect of an acute reduction in catecholamine synthesis, produced by alpha methyl para tyrosine (AMPT), on cue-induced craving for cocaine in cocaine-dependent patients. AMPT and diphenhydramine were administered under double-blind conditions in a randomized, crossover design. Two cue exposure sessions were conducted 1 week apart. Self-reported assessments of cocaine craving were administered before and after cue exposure. AMPT, but not diphenhydramine, significantly decreased plasma levels of the dopamine metabolite, ho-movanillic acid and the norepinephrine metabolite, 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylethylene glycol. However, AMPT's effects on cue-induced craving interacted with the test-day order in a complex manner.