Addictive behaviors
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Addictive behaviors · Jul 2005
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialThe effect of mianserin add-on, on the intensity of opioid withdrawal symptoms during detoxification program--a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled, prospective study.
Based on pre-clinical studies regarding the interaction of various antidepressant drugs with the opioid system, we designed a clinical study to be carried out in the 'in-patient detoxification unit' within a large community centre for treatment of drugs dependent people. We evaluated the effect of mianserin add-on, on the intensity of opioid withdrawal symptoms in opiate dependent subjects undergoing medication-supported physical detoxification and integrated psychosocial and psychotherapeutic intervention for the treatment of dependence. ⋯ Though adding mianserin to the medication treatment during detoxification of opiate-dependent persons attenuated significantly both the intensity and the duration of withdrawal symptoms, the overall drop out rate was negatively influenced in the study group compared to the control group and fewer patients completed the study. Further study is needed in order to establish the origin of the paradox of higher drop out rates in the presence of attenuated intensity and duration of opiate withdrawal symptoms in the study group, and the clinical implications that should be drown.
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Addictive behaviors · Jul 2005
ReviewNeurobiochemical and clinical aspects of craving in alcohol addiction: a review.
Craving plays an important role in the pathogenesis of alcohol dependence and relapse. In this review we have tried to analyse how many contrasting theories have been formulated in order to clarify the concept of craving. ⋯ On the other hand comportamental and/or cognitive aspects could also play a role in the etiology of craving. The coexistence of many and often contrasting theories can indicate that different subtypes of patients could have different mechanisms at the basis of alcohol craving, suggesting that it could be advisable to personalize the anti-craving therapy.