Drug treatment for cocaine addiction is a controversial topic. According to Catalyst Pharmaceutical Partners, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has stated there is no known drug treatment recognized for treatment of cocaine addiction. However, researchers continue to search for a medication to effectively treat this life-threatening addiction. The primary characteristic researchers are focused on is that these medications must simultaneously reduce the euphoric effects of cocaine while decreasing the effects of withdrawal from cocaine addiction. There are several drugs on the market that have received interest for potentially treating cocaine dependence.
Modafinil
Modafinil, commonly known as Provigil, is prescribed for treatment of narcolepsy--excessive sleepiness and daytime sleeping--and has received some interest in potentially treating cocaine dependence. Modanifil has been known to treat a variety of mental issues, including Alzheimer's disease. This medication affects several neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine, noradrenaline and gamma amino butyric acid. A study performed by Kyle M. Kampman revealed patients who were prescribed modanifil used less cocaine than those who took a placebo.
Propanolol
Propanolol, more commonly known as Inderal, is commonly prescribed as a beta blocker to treat various medical conditions concerning the heart. This medication also suppresses neurotransmitters such as adrenaline and noradrenaline. Propanolol has shown to have its greatest effect on individuals that are most seriously addicted to cocaine. Kampman also studied effects of this medication and determined that individuals who were prescribed propanolol stayed in treatment for a longer period of time than individuals who were administered a placebo.
Topiramate
Topiramate, commonly known as topamax, is commonly prescribed for treatment of seizures and migraine headaches. This medication is being researched because it affects neurotransmitters in such a way that it blocks the "high" associated with cocaine use. A study performed by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine revealed that patients who are administered topiramate are more likely to abstain from cocaine than patients who were administered a placebo.
Disulfiram
Disulfiram, otherwise known as antabuse, has long been used as a medication to aid individuals who were addicted to alcohol. Antabuse is characterized by causing unpleasant conditions such as nausea and vomiting when combined even with a small amount of alcohol. This medication acts similarly when used for cocaine dependence. When an individual takes cocaine while on antabuse, he may feel extreme anxiety and paranoia instead of a pleasurable euphoric effect. Severe medical conditions may be encountered if the combination of cocaine and alcohol are mixed with antabuse.
References
- Addiction Science and Clinical Practice: The Search For Medications To Treat Stimulant Dependence
- Catalyst Pharmaceutical Partners: Developing a Drug To Fight Drug Addiction
- Medical News Today: Anti-seizure Drug May Help Treat Cocaine Addiction
- Addiction Inbox: Drugs For Cocaine Addiction
- Addiction Recovery Guide: Cocaine Addiction
