Wareniklina – częściowy agonista receptorów nikotynowych w terapii zespołu uzależnienia od alkoholu

Abstract

The pharmacotherapy currently used for alcohol dependence may reduce alcohol consumption and extend abstinence periods. However, it is effective in only about 30% of addicted subjects. Alcohol dependence is often accompanied by tobacco addiction, which can be caused by the fact that both alcohol and nicotine interact with neuronal nicotinic receptors. Experimental studies have been shown that varenicline, a nicotinic α4β2 partial agonist considered to be the most effective drug for smoking cessation, reduces voluntary ethanol intake and alcohol-seeking behaviour in experimental animals. In addition, varenicline reduces alcohol consumption and attenuates alcohol craving among heavily drinking smokers. These effects are probably the result of specific alcohol–medication interactions. Varenicline seems to be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of alcohol dependence, especially for subjects addicted to both alcohol and tobacco.

Keywords

• Varenicline
• Alcohol dependence
• Tobacco dependence