JOURNAL ARTICLE

Brain neurotransmitter receptor antagonist found to prevent opioid addiction in mice.

  • Published In: Mental Health Weekly Digest, 2024. P. 140 1 of 2

  • Database: Psychology Source 2 of 2

Abstract

New research conducted by UCLA Health has discovered that a drug used to treat insomnia, called suvorexant, can prevent the addictive effects of morphine opioids in mice while still providing effective pain relief. Suvorexant blocks brain receptors for a neurotransmitter called hypocretin, which is linked to mood. The study found that administering opioids with suvorexant prevented opioid-induced changes in hypocretin neurons, reduced brain inflammation, and prevented addictive behavior in mice. Further studies are needed to determine if these results can be replicated in humans, potentially providing a safer and more effective treatment for pain without the risk of addiction and overdose. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Mental Health Weekly Digest. 2024/07, p140
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Anatomy and Physiology
  • Publication Date:2024
  • ISSN:1543-6616
  • Accession Number:178515294
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