Abstract
The brain imaging together with the images obtained using the supermicroscopy has recently demonstrated the chronic elevated intake of ethanol induces both functional and structural changes of neurons, a phenomenon associated to altered mental function. The most recent experimental and clinical studies have indicated the treatment with nalmefene as a specific therapy able to significantly reduce ethanol intake in ethanol-dependent patients. Thanks to its peculiar action (partial agonist for κ oppioid receptors and pure antagonist of δ and µ receptors) nalmenfene, in contrast to naltrexone (a pure antagonist at κ, δ, µ receptors) is able to rimodulate the content of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens of ethanol dependent patients. This mechanism markedly reduces the negative emotional state, disphoria, depression and anhedonia following the disregulation of the mesolimbic dopaminergic system elicited by long-term intake of high amount of ethanol.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
