A new clinical trial has found evidence that the dopamine-enhancing drug tolcapone can help improve self-control and reduce ...

The research also uncovered some key differences based on sex. While apremilast reduced pain and alcohol intake in most groups, some male rats didn’t respond to the drug’s pain-relieving effects.

Experts also hope that if the drugs prove to be successful, they will help convince people that alcohol use disorder is a disease, rather than a bad behavior or a moral weakness.

All drugs of abuse converge on the mesolimbic dopamine system, but via different mechanisms. Cocaine blocks dopamine reuptake, while opioids inhibit GABA neurons, disinhibiting dopamine release.

University of Konstanz. "Brain waves measure the effect of anti-alcohol campaigns." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 9 February 2025. <www.sciencedaily.com / releases / 2025 / 02 / 250207122452.htm>.

The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects.

Weight loss drugs may also help reduce alcohol cravings, according to a new study. (Foto AP/David J. Phillip, Archivo) Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy — known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor ...