Animal models of addiction : models for therapeutic strategies?

摘要: When having a continuous free choice in their home cages between water and alcohol- or drug-containing drinking solutions, rats first develop controlled consumption of the psychotropic compound and, after several months, lose control over drug taking. After long period abstinence, they reveal an excessive, compulsive intake. Adulteration solutions reduces doses taken by consumers, but not those excessive drinkers, can therefore be regarded as addicted. These animals show pre-intake motor restlessness that may related to craving. In two studies with putative anti-craving agents (the dopamine D2 receptor agonist lisuride antagonist flupentixol) we treated alcohol-addicted non-addicted observed effects on alcohol taking, seeking brain neurotransmission. investigations paralleled clinical studies, both cases results could predicted correctly (“pro-craving” effect pharmaceutics). Differences “symptomatic” possible “causal” therapies are discussed, approaches towards causal therapy according "imprinting"-model addition suggested.