Reactivating addiction-related memories under propranolol to reduce craving: A pilot randomized controlled trial.
Title | Reactivating addiction-related memories under propranolol to reduce craving: A pilot randomized controlled trial. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2016 |
Authors | Lonergan M, Saumier D, Tremblay J, Kieffer BL, Brown TG, Brunet A |
Journal | J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry |
Volume | 50 |
Pagination | 245-9 |
Date Published | 2016 Mar |
ISSN | 1873-7943 |
Keywords | Adolescent, Adult, Aged, Craving, Double-Blind Method, Female, Humans, Male, Mental Recall, Middle Aged, Pilot Projects, Propranolol, Substance-Related Disorders, Young Adult |
Abstract | BACKGROUND: The reconsolidation blocker propranolol abolishes alcohol and drug-seeking behavior in rodents and attenuates conditioned emotional responses to drug-cues in humans in experimental settings. This suggests a role for its use in the treatment of substance dependence. In this translational pilot study, we explored the feasibility and efficacy of this procedure as an adjunct treatment for addiction. We hypothesized that guided addiction-related memory reactivation under propranolol would significantly attenuate tonic craving, a central element in relapse following addiction treatment.METHODS: Seventeen treatment-seeking adults diagnosed with substance dependence were randomized to receive double-blind propranolol (n = 9) or placebo (n = 8) on six occasions prior to reading a personalized script detailing a drug-using experience. The primary outcome measure was self-reported craving intensity.RESULTS: After controlling for baseline craving scores, intent-to-treat analysis revealed a time by group interaction, F(1, 14) = 5.68, p = .03, η(2) = 0.29; craving was reduced in the propranolol-treated group (Cohen's d = 1.40, p < .05) but not in the placebo group (d = 0.06, n.s.).LIMITATIONS: The usual limitations related to small sample size and the lack of a follow-up apply here.CONCLUSION: Drug-related memory reactivation under propranolol can subsequently reduce craving among substance-dependent individuals. Considering the relapse rate among individuals treated for substance dependence, our study highlights the feasibility of, and need for, more comprehensive trials of this treatment approach. |
DOI | 10.1016/j.jbtep.2015.09.012 |
Alternate Journal | J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry |
PubMed ID | 26454715 |