Advancements in addressing drug dependence: A review of promising therapeutic strategies and interventions

Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry. 2024 Aug 30:134:111070. doi: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.111070. Epub 2024 Jun 20.

Abstract

Substance dependence represents a pervasive global concern within the realm of public health. Presently, it is delineated as a persistent and recurrent neurological disorder stemming from drug-triggered neuroadaptations in the brain's reward circuitry. Despite the availability of various therapeutic modalities, there has been a steady escalation in the mortality rate attributed to drug overdoses. Substantial endeavors have been directed towards the exploration of innovative interventions aimed at mitigating cravings and drug-induced repetitive behaviors. Within this review, we encapsulate the most auspicious contemporary treatment methodologies, accentuating meta-analyses of efficacious pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches: including gabapentin, topiramate, prazosin, physical exercise regimens, and cerebral stimulation techniques.

Keywords: Addiction circuitry; Anti-craving therapies; Dopaminergic reward system; Drug-addiction treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Substance-Related Disorders* / therapy